Overcoming fears: a pathway to publishing for early career researchers

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to present reflections of five early career researchers on the challenges of journal publishing and how to tackle them. Design/methodology/approach The authors attended a participatory workshop on demystifying academic publications. Working individually and in groups the authors shared, discussed, analysed, visualised and ranked perceived challenges and opportunities concerning academic publishing. The authors then delved into the existing literature on the subject. Following their enhanced understanding of the area, the authors reflected on the experience and learnings. Findings Personal confidence relating to the development of a scholarly identity was found to be a critical factor in the attitude towards journal publishing. Supervisory and peer support, accessibility to journal editors, as well as opportunities to reflect on the writing, publishing and peer review processes through participatory workshops and writing groups, were deemed more effective than formal and conventional guidance schemes. Research limitations/implications This work adds to the available literature regarding the issue of academic publishing for PhD students and early career researchers. Originality/value The paper contributes to a deeper understanding of issues surrounding publishing apprehension, by laying out thoughts that are seldom expressed.

Guest editorial: Exploring inclusive publishing practices with early career disaster-studies researchers

“…This is especially true for ECRs from backgrounds that are not often platformed in academia. As ECRs ourselves, we recognize the constant pressure to disseminate research and publish scientific papers to advance our career trajectories – which is often a process filled with fear and lack of confidence (Drosou et al , 2020). Yet, we concur that this is even harder for ECRs without our privileged study facilities, who face multiple obstacles to getting their voices heard and valued by publishing in academic journals.…”

“…Each contributing author also committed to reviewing one of the other articles submitted to the special issue. As shown by Drosou et al (2020), a supportive peer review process can enhance ECRs' confidence and help them overcome fears when they start to write and publish. In each published piece, the authors included acknowledgements for their mentors and peers.…”