Why Researchers Choose International Journal of Research on Service-Learning and Community Engagement for High-Impact Publications
The International Journal of Research on Service-Learning and Community Engagement stands as a vital resource for scholars dedicated to volunteer programs and service learning. Established in 2013 by Kennesaw State University, this open-access publication fosters innovative research that bridges academic inquiry with practical community impact. Researchers value its commitment to disseminating high-quality studies on service-learning pedagogies, community partnerships, and civic engagement across educational contexts. With a focus on interdisciplinary approaches, the journal attracts contributions from fields like education, social sciences, and public service, ensuring broad relevance.
Publishing in the International Journal of Research on Service-Learning and Community Engagement offers researchers visibility in a niche yet influential area. Its online platform, hosted on Digital Commons, enables global access without barriers, aligning with the ethos of community-engaged scholarship. The journal's rigorous peer-review process upholds scholarly standards, while its lack of article processing charges (APC) removes financial hurdles for authors worldwide. This accessibility enhances its appeal for early-career researchers and those in resource-limited institutions seeking to contribute to volunteer programs discourse.
Key strengths include the journal's emphasis on reflective practice and empirical evidence, which resonate with funders and policymakers interested in service learning outcomes. Articles often explore topics such as curriculum integration, assessment methods, and equity in community engagement, providing actionable insights. The editorial board, comprising experts from diverse institutions, ensures balanced perspectives and high editorial quality. For researchers aiming to influence practice, the journal's archives offer a rich repository of case studies and theoretical advancements.
As service learning gains prominence in higher education, the International Journal of Research on Service-Learning and Community Engagement positions itself at the forefront. Its publications inform program development and accreditation efforts, amplifying their real-world value. To explore opportunities, consider submitting your work or browsing recent issues. Researchers can also connect with academic opportunities via higher education jobs in service learning.
Overview & History
The International Journal of Research on Service-Learning and Community Engagement was launched in 2013 to address the growing need for dedicated scholarship in this field. Published by Kennesaw State University, it emerged from the recognition that service learning requires robust research to support its integration into curricula. The journal's inception coincided with increased emphasis on experiential education in U.S. higher education, drawing from national initiatives like those from the Corporation for National and Community Service.
Over the years, it has evolved into a key outlet for documenting the evolution of volunteer programs. Early volumes focused on foundational theories, while recent issues tackle contemporary challenges such as virtual service learning post-pandemic. Hosted on an institutional repository, the journal ensures long-term preservation and open access, reflecting the publisher's commitment to public good. Its history underscores a dedication to amplifying voices from underrepresented communities in service-learning research.
Scope and Disciplines Covered
The journal encompasses research on service-learning models, community-based participatory research, and civic engagement strategies. It welcomes empirical studies, theoretical papers, and practitioner reflections that advance understanding of how academic service contributes to societal change.
| Discipline | Description |
|---|---|
| Service Learning | Pedagogical approaches integrating community service with academic goals. |
| Community Engagement | Partnerships between institutions and local organizations for mutual benefit. |
| Education | Curriculum design and assessment in K-12 and higher education contexts. |
| Social Sciences | Impacts on social justice, equity, and cultural competence. |
| Volunteerism | Recruitment, training, and sustainability of volunteer programs. |
Key Journal Metrics
Metrics for the International Journal of Research on Service-Learning and Community Engagement reflect its niche focus and open-access model. While not indexed in major commercial databases like Clarivate JCR or Scopus, it maintains steady publication rates and growing citations in specialized fields.
| Metric | Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Impact Factor | Not publicly disclosed | Not listed in JCR; citations tracked via Google Scholar. |
| Acceptance Rate | Not publicly disclosed | Selective peer review; approximately 40-50% based on editorial estimates. |
| Publication Frequency | Annual | One volume per year with multiple issues. |
| CiteScore | Not applicable | No Scopus indexing. |
| h-Index | Approximately 10 | Derived from Google Scholar metrics. |
Indexing and Abstracting
The journal is indexed in ERIC (Education Resources Information Center), Google Scholar, and the Directory of Open Access Journals (DOAJ). These services enhance discoverability for researchers in education and social sciences. Abstracting occurs through academic search engines, ensuring articles reach audiences interested in volunteer programs. For full visibility, authors benefit from the publisher's institutional repository integration.
Publication Model and Fees
As an open-access diamond journal, the International Journal of Research on Service-Learning and Community Engagement charges no APC or subscription fees. This model promotes equitable access, funded through the publisher's resources. All content is available under a Creative Commons license, encouraging reuse in teaching and further research on service learning.
Submission Process and Guidelines
Submissions are handled via the journal's online portal on Digital Commons. Authors must adhere to APA style, with manuscripts limited to 8,000 words. The process includes initial editorial screening followed by double-blind peer review, typically taking 3-6 months. Guidelines emphasize originality, ethical considerations in community partnerships, and relevance to the journal's scope. Detailed instructions are available on the official site.
Editorial Board Highlights
The editorial board features prominent scholars such as Editor-in-Chief Dr. Debra Dewalt from Kennesaw State University, alongside associates from institutions like the University of California and Indiana University. Their expertise spans service-learning implementation, assessment, and policy. This diverse team ensures comprehensive review and global perspectives in volunteer programs research.
Why Publish in International Journal of Research on Service-Learning and Community Engagement?
Publishing here offers targeted exposure to a community of practitioners and academics invested in service learning. The journal's open-access status maximizes downloads and citations, particularly in education circles. It supports career advancement by showcasing work in high-demand areas like civic engagement. Additionally, its affiliation with a respected university enhances credibility. Researchers gain from collaborative networks formed through published dialogues on community impact.
Comparison with Similar Journals
The International Journal of Research on Service-Learning and Community Engagement compares favorably with peers in scope and accessibility.
| Journal | Publisher | Open Access | Focus Areas | APC |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| International Journal of Research on Service-Learning and Community Engagement | Kennesaw State University | Yes | Service learning, community engagement | None |
| Michigan Journal of Community Service Learning | University of Michigan | Yes | Experiential education, reflection | None |
| Journal of Community Engagement and Higher Education | Merrimack College | Yes | Scholarship of engagement | None |
| Advances in Community Engagement | Various | Partial | Partnership models | Varies |
Researcher Tips for Successful Submission
To succeed, align your manuscript with the journal's emphasis on practical implications. Use mixed methods to strengthen empirical claims and include diverse stakeholder voices. Engage with recent literature on volunteer programs for context. Proofread for clarity and ensure anonymity in submissions. Finally, leverage feedback from pre-submission reviews to refine your work. For career support, visit Rate My Professor or check the Academic Calendar for deadlines.