Evaluations of scientific productions: challenges and motivations of editors and reviewers

Abstract

Objective: This investigation was to understand the challenges and motivations of editors and reviewers in the evaluation process of productions submitted to scientific journals. Methodology: To this end, this research was conducted through a methodological approach focused on the qualitative approach, using the exploratory research method and questionnaires directed to reviewers and editors of journals in Information Science and Education, to collect data to be treated through content analysis with the establishment of categories. Results: The results show that most of the responding editors and reviewers of this research, showed to be experienced in the perception of editorial work, and that in Brazil those involved with scientific editing are volunteers, and still little recognized for academic merits. Conclusion: It is concluded that, with the complexity, relevance and the controversies around the evaluation process, which involves all the actors of the scientific production (editors, reviewers and authors), perhaps these role experiences help in the understanding of the need of a well elaborated and timely opinion, but also, should contribute so that the several actions suggested by the research subjects, were really put into practice, collaborating to the development of science and the scientific community.