RETRACTION, CORRECTION AND EXPRESSION OF CONCERN POLICY
Annals of Education is committed to maintaining the accuracy, reliability, and integrity of the scholarly record. When significant errors, ethical concerns, or issues affecting the validity of a published article are identified, the journal may publish a Correction, Retraction, or Expression of Concern, as appropriate.
Corrections
A correction may be issued when a published article contains a significant error or omission that affects the accuracy or clarity of the scholarly record but does not invalidate the overall findings or conclusions.
Corrections may address issues such as factual errors, author information, affiliations, figures, tables, references, or other material inaccuracies. The original article will normally remain available with a clear notice linking it to the correction.
Retractions
A published article may be retracted when there is substantial evidence that its findings or integrity are seriously compromised. Reasons for retraction may include:
- Major errors that invalidate the research findings or conclusions.
- Fabrication or falsification of data or research results.
- Plagiarism or significant unauthorized use of published material.
- Duplicate or redundant publication.
- Serious ethical violations.
- Invalid or unreliable research methods or results.
- Significant undisclosed conflicts of interest that materially affect the work.
A retracted article will normally remain part of the scholarly record but will be clearly identified as retracted, together with an explanation of the reason for retraction.
Expression of Concern
An Expression of Concern may be published when serious questions arise regarding the integrity, reliability, or ethics of a published article, but the available evidence is not yet sufficient to justify a correction or retraction.
It may remain in place while the journal or another appropriate body investigates the matter.
Post-Publication Review
Concerns regarding published articles may be raised by authors, reviewers, readers, editors, institutions, or other relevant parties. The journal will review credible concerns objectively and may request supporting information or clarification from the authors or relevant institutions.
Editorial Decision
The Editor-in-Chief and/or authorized editorial authority will determine the appropriate action based on the available evidence, the seriousness of the issue, and the potential impact on the scholarly record.
Commitment to Scholarly Integrity
Annals of Education is committed to correcting the scholarly record promptly and responsibly whenever necessary. The journal seeks to handle post-publication issues with fairness, transparency, confidentiality, and respect for due process, while protecting the integrity of published research.
