Peer review type
The IJSIE employs a double-blind peer-review process. Neither authors nor reviewers are aware of each other’s identities. Each manuscript is reviewed by at least two independent experts in the relevant field. The journal utilises a Digital Editorial Officer (DEO) to coordinate the review workflow.
Initial screening
Before peer review, the DEO conducts initial checks on:
- Academic quality: Rigour, relevance, and scholarly merit of the manuscript.
- Plagiarism: Similarity screening using Turnitin detection software.
- Proofreading: Language quality and clarity of the manuscript.
Review criteria
Reviewers evaluate manuscripts using a structured review framework focusing on:
- Contribution to international literature: Originality, novelty, and relevance beyond a single local context.
- Theoretical grounding: Clear articulation of theoretical or conceptual framework and logical integration with research questions.
- Literature engagement: Engagement with the last 5-7 years of relevant international literature.
- Methodological rigour: Appropriateness of research design, transparency in sampling and procedures, rigorous data analysis.
- Interpretation and implications: Coherent interpretation, integration with theory, and clear implications.
Reviewer recommendations
Reviewers provide one of the following recommendations:
- Accept – The manuscript is suitable for publication as is.
- Minor revisions – Small improvements are needed before acceptance.
- Major revisions – Significant improvements are required; the manuscript must be revised and resubmitted.
- Reject – The manuscript is not suitable for publication.
Scoring system
Reviewers mark submitted manuscripts related to review criteria following the four-point scale: Excellent (5), Good (4), Moderate (3), Weak (2), and Poor (1). A manuscript with an average score below 4 may be rejected for publication.
Ethical responsibilities
Reviewers are expected to:
- Declare any conflicts of interest.
- Maintain strict confidentiality of manuscripts.
- Review objectively and respectfully.
- Do not use AI tools in the review process.
Reviewer recognition
The IJSIE recognises the vital contribution of reviewers by issuing formal letters of acknowledgment and listing them annually on the journal website, with their consent.
Time frame
The IJSIE aims to decide on submitted papers within 4 to 8 weeks. A fast peer review may take 2 to 4 weeks. The journal is committed to keeping authors informed about the progress of submitted articles.