Review Process
Overview
The American Journal of Education & Instructional Science (AJEIS) utilizes a double-blind peer review process to ensure the integrity, objectivity, and academic rigor of all published research. Authors and reviewers remain anonymous to preserve fairness and eliminate bias throughout the evaluation process.
Steps
Step: Initial Editorial Screening
Description: Submissions are first assessed for completeness, formatting, and relevance to the journal’s aims and scope. Manuscripts not meeting basic requirements may be returned to the authors or rejected without review.
Step: Assignment to Reviewers
Description: Eligible manuscripts are sent to at least two independent reviewers with expertise in the manuscript’s subject area. Reviewers are selected based on subject knowledge, academic experience, and impartiality.
Step: Double-Blind Peer Review
Description: Reviewers evaluate the manuscript’s clarity, originality, research methodology, significance, and ethical compliance. They provide written feedback and recommendations: Accept, Minor Revision, Major Revision, or Reject.
Step: Author Revisions
Description: Authors are asked to respond to reviewer comments and submit a revised version of the manuscript along with a detailed response letter addressing all feedback.
Step: Final Editorial Decision
Description: The revised manuscript is re-evaluated by the editorial board, and a final decision is made based on reviewer input and the quality of revisions.
Step: Copyediting & Proofreading
Description: Accepted manuscripts undergo language editing, formatting, and typesetting to ensure publication quality.
Step: Publication & DOI Assignment
Description: Final versions are published online under an open-access license with a DOI for indexing and citation purposes.
Review Criteria
Criterion: Originality
Description: Does the manuscript offer a novel contribution to education research or instructional practice?
Criterion: Research Rigor
Description: Are the research methods sound, and are findings well-supported and clearly explained?
Criterion: Educational Relevance
Description: Is the topic significant to the field of education, pedagogy, or instructional science?
Criterion: Organization and Clarity
Description: Is the manuscript logically structured, well-written, and professionally presented?
Criterion: Ethical Standards
Description: Are ethical guidelines followed, including informed consent and appropriate citation?
Review Timeline
Editorial Screening: 3–5 days
Peer Review: 3–4 weeks
Revision Time: 2–3 weeks (minor revisions) or 4–6 weeks (major revisions)
Final Decision: 1–2 weeks after resubmission
Publication After Acceptance: 7–10 days
Reviewer Guidelines
Expectations:
- Provide constructive and objective feedback based on academic merit.
- Maintain confidentiality and do not share or reuse manuscript content.
- Identify strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement.
- Ensure relevant literature is acknowledged and cited where appropriate.
- Report any suspected plagiarism or ethical concerns to the editor.
Reviewer Recognition:
- Reviewers receive official Certificates of Review Contribution.
- Top reviewers may be invited to join the editorial board or receive APC discounts.
- Outstanding contributions may be acknowledged in the journal’s annual reviewer list.