Thinking beyond the journal: How researchers can increase their academic impact?
A publication in a prestigious journal traditionally marks a significant moment in the career of a scholar. Today, however, publication should rather be seen as the commencement of a much longer, more comprehensive process. The true impact of research will be measured by the reach it has beyond its own discipline, its access to other scholars and institutions, policymakers and practitioners who could make use of or even build upon the existing findings.
A significant number of studies may receive very few citations because they are very difficult to find rather than for a lack of academic quality. The importance of research dissemination, academic networking and visibility on the web has become evident through the experience with these poorly cited studies.
The contemporary scholar must think of the research project in a much more comprehensive, long-term framework. A quality research study relies not only on selecting a high impact journal, an enticing title, relevant keywords and a well-structured abstract (essential for search engine indexing), but also on the research community's ability to locate the article.
Academic websites and portals have proven to be extremely useful for research impact. Active and constantly updated researcher profiles, where publications lists are kept current, serve to provide academics with a recognizable online presence in the research community.
Another key aspect to modern research impact is the rise of open access publishing. This, by its nature, will increase accessibility and therefore the possibility of citations, further debate, and further collaboration in the long run, especially by overcoming national and institutional barriers.
While digital interaction is becoming ever more prevalent, the importance of academic conferences remainsundisputed. Attending conferences is essential not only to present one's own findings and gain feedback, but also to establish contacts with research peers.
Beyond that, the skill to explain research in more readily digestible formats has also become crucial. An article in the news, research blogs, podcasts and videos, or professional social media accounts will expose the scholar to a different and wider audience, and provide ample opportunity for follow-up discussions and eventual further impact on those who receive them.
The long term build up of academic impact will occur gradually. The consistency of one's publications and continued active participation in academic discussions and initiatives will build credibility over time, even in the absence of a high number of citations for particular studies.
The future of scholarship belongs to the researcher who understands that knowledge can not be confined solely within scholarly journals. Only through wider dissemination and interaction with other individuals and communities can the highest impact of research be achieved. The role of the researcher has transcended the author of a manuscript; he or she is also an ambassador of their work.
Read More: https://www.globalxpublications.com/blog/how-to-increase-research-citations-and-academic-visibility
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