Guidelines for upgrading the quality of journals, Faculty of Political Science and Law, Burapha University, in accordance with the assessment criteria of the Thai-Journal Citation Index Center (TCI) Tier 1.
Abstract:
The research titled Guidelines for upgrading the quality of journals, Faculty of Political Science and Law, Burapha University, in accordance with the assessment criteria of the Thai-Journal Citation Index Center (TCI) Tier 1the objectives of this study are: (1) to analyze the operations of the Faculty of Political Science and Law Journal, Burapha University, (2) to analyze the problems and obstacles in the operations of the Faculty of Political Science and Law Journal, Burapha University, and (3) to propose development strategies for the journal. This research employs a mixed methodology approach, combining both qualitative research and quantitative research. In-depth interviews were conducted with key informants, consisting of 3 journal editors. Additionally, opinions were gathered from 110 stakeholders of the journal, including: (1) journal editors, (2) editorial board members of the Faculty of Political Science and Law Journal, (3) journal coordination staff, (4) article reviewers (Peer Review), and (5) article authors.
1. The Faculty of Political Science and Law Journal, Burapha University, includes the Journal of Politics, Administration, and Law, the Burapha Political Economy Journal, and the Journal of Public Administration and Politics. All processes are carried out through the ThaiJo system. System users include journal coordinators, editors, expert reviewers, and article authors. The editorial team is responsible for setting the overall action plan for each issue (Theme). These three journals are published twice a year: January-June and July-December.
2. The issues and challenges in operating the Faculty of Political Science and Law Journal, Burapha University, were found to be that the journal coordinator has various duties and responsibilities and does not solely focus on journal tasks. The compensation for expert reviewers is lower and differs from that of other journals. The equipment available is not conducive to the work of the coordinators and editors. Additionally, the ThaiJo system has complicated and difficult-to-follow procedures.
3. Development approaches for the Faculty of Political Science and Law Journal, Burapha University, to align with the evaluation criteria of the Thai Citation Index (TCI), Tier 1, include the following in terms of journal management: (1) The journal should have an International Standard Serial Number (ISSN). (2) The journal should develop an engaging website with complete information. (3) The journal should clearly state the publication fees on the website. (4) The journal should manage the publication schedule in a timely and consistent manner. (5) The journal should update the editorial board information regularly and ensure diversity among expert reviewers. (6) There should be personnel dedicated solely to managing all three journal issues. (7) The journal should promote the use of equipment to facilitate smoother workflow, such as laptops or tablets. (8) The journal should consider adjusting the compensation for expert reviewers to align more closely with that of other journals. Regarding the peer review process: (1) A support system should be established for expert reviewers who are unable to use the ThaiJo system, such as those with visual impairments. In such cases, the journal coordinator should prepare article evaluation forms for reviewers and upload their comments into the ThaiJo system. Regarding access and dissemination of information: (1) The journal should implement an Online Journal System (OJS) that is user-friendly, fast, and minimizes steps for users. (2) The journal should ensure that the article information on the website matches the data in the electronic (PDF) files. (3) The journal should create a user guide for the ThaiJo system, divided by roles (authors and expert reviewers). This could be presented as an e-Book or a short video clip available on the website.