Complaint Handling Procedure

1. Purpose

The Journal of Educatio et Didactica is committed to ensuring high ethical standards, transparency, and accountability in all aspects of the publication process. This procedure outlines how complaints related to the journal’s editorial management, peer review process, publication ethics, and published content are handled fairly and efficiently.

2. Scope of Complaints

Complaints may relate to, but are not limited to:

  • Editorial decisions or delays in the review process

  • Allegations of plagiarism, data fabrication, or research misconduct

  • Conflicts of interest

  • Ethical issues involving authors, reviewers, or editors

  • Errors or concerns regarding published articles

  • Unprofessional conduct by journal staff

3. Submission of Complaints

  • Complaints must be submitted in writing via the journal’s official contact channel.

  • The complaint should include:

    • Complainant’s name and contact information

    • Clear description of the complaint

    • Supporting evidence or documentation (if available)

  • Anonymous complaints may be considered if sufficient evidence is provided.

4. Initial Assessment

  • All complaints are acknowledged within a reasonable timeframe.

  • The Editor-in-Chief or a designated editor conducts an initial assessment to determine:

    • Whether the complaint falls within the journal’s scope

    • Whether sufficient information has been provided

5. Investigation Process

  • If the complaint is deemed valid, a formal investigation will be initiated.

  • The investigation may involve:

    • Consultation with editorial board members

    • Requesting explanations from authors, reviewers, or editors involved

    • Reviewing relevant documents and communications

  • All parties will be treated fairly, confidentially, and without prejudice.

6. Decision and Resolution

  • After completing the investigation, the Editor-in-Chief makes a decision based on the findings.

  • Possible outcomes include:

    • No further action if the complaint is unsubstantiated

    • Correction, retraction, or expression of concern for published articles

    • Reassignment or removal of editors or reviewers

    • Revision of editorial procedures to prevent recurrence

7. Communication of Outcome

  • The complainant will be informed of the outcome in writing, where appropriate.

  • Due to confidentiality and privacy considerations, detailed information may be limited.

8. Appeals

  • If the complainant is dissatisfied with the outcome, an appeal may be submitted.

  • Appeals must be supported by new evidence or a clear rationale.

  • The appeal will be reviewed by an independent member of the editorial board or an advisory committee.

9. Confidentiality

  • All complaints and related investigations are handled confidentially.

  • Information will only be disclosed to those directly involved in the investigation.

10. Ethical Framework

This procedure follows:

  • Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE) guidelines

  • International best practices in scholarly publishing

11. Policy Review

The Journal of Educatio et Didactica reserves the right to review and update this procedure to ensure continuous improvement and compliance with ethical standards.