Management Learning – Organisational Development Journal Guide for Researchers

Why Researchers Choose Management Learning for High-Impact Publications

Management Learning has established itself as a vital resource for scholars exploring the intersections of management, learning, and organisational dynamics. Published by SAGE Publications since 1988, originally under the name Management Education, the journal rebranded in 1994 to reflect its evolving focus on critical perspectives in management learning. This evolution underscores its commitment to advancing theoretical and practical insights into how individuals and organisations learn and develop. With a primary emphasis on organisational development, Management Learning publishes rigorous, peer-reviewed articles that challenge conventional management paradigms and promote innovative educational approaches.

The journal's scope extends beyond traditional business studies, incorporating interdisciplinary elements from sociology, psychology, and education. Researchers value Management Learning for its rigorous editorial process and its role in disseminating high-quality scholarship that influences both academia and practice. Its impact factor of 3.9, as reported in the 2022 Journal Citation Reports by Clarivate, highlights its influence within the field. Articles in Management Learning often address contemporary issues such as leadership development, organisational change, and the role of learning in sustainable business practices. The journal's hybrid open access model allows authors to reach wider audiences while maintaining the prestige of traditional publishing.

For those considering submission, Management Learning offers clear guidelines that prioritise originality and critical inquiry. The editorial board, comprising international experts, ensures diverse viewpoints are represented. Publishing here not only boosts citation metrics but also connects researchers with global networks. To explore related opportunities, visit the management academic jobs section for career-enhancing roles.

Overview & History

Management Learning traces its origins to 1988 when it launched as Management Education, a publication dedicated to exploring pedagogical innovations in business schools. Under SAGE Publications, it quickly gained traction among management educators. The 1994 rename to Management Learning broadened its appeal, shifting focus to lifelong learning processes within organisations. Over the decades, the journal has published seminal works on experiential learning, critical management education, and the sociocultural dimensions of organisational knowledge. Today, it remains a cornerstone for scholars investigating how learning shapes management practices in diverse contexts.

Scope and Disciplines Covered

Management Learning encompasses a wide array of topics centered on learning in organisational settings. It welcomes submissions on management education, professional development, and the theoretical underpinnings of organisational behaviour. Key areas include critical pedagogy, power dynamics in learning environments, and innovative teaching methods for business curricula.

Key Journal Metrics

Management Learning's metrics reflect its standing in the academic community. These indicators help researchers evaluate its suitability for impactful publications.

Indexing and Abstracting

The journal is indexed in major databases, ensuring global visibility. It appears in Web of Science (Social Sciences Citation Index), Scopus, and ABI/INFORM. Additional coverage includes EBSCO, ProQuest, and the Directory of Open Access Journals for open access articles. These indexations facilitate discoverability and citation tracking for published works. For more on academic resources, check the academic calendar for key dates.

Publication Model and Fees

Management Learning operates on a hybrid model, offering both subscription-based and open access options through SAGE Choice. Authors can publish open access by paying an article processing charge (APC) of £2,440 (approximately $3,170 USD). Subscription access remains available for institutions. No fees apply for standard publication, making it accessible for a wide range of researchers. Policies align with Sherpa/RoMEO guidelines for self-archiving.

Submission Process and Guidelines

Submissions are handled via the SAGE Manuscript Central portal. Authors must prepare manuscripts in line with the journal's style guide, emphasizing double-anonymized peer review. Guidelines stress originality, with a word limit of 8,000–10,000 words. Ethical standards follow COPE recommendations. Initial desk review occurs within weeks, followed by peer review. For submission tips, explore organizational development jobs to contextualize your research.

Editorial Board Highlights

The editorial team includes leading scholars such as Editor-in-Chief Giorgio Bertolotti from the University of Bologna, alongside associate editors from institutions like the University of Leicester and Monash University. Their expertise spans critical management and education, ensuring balanced oversight. The board's international composition promotes diverse perspectives.

Why Publish in Management Learning?

Publishing in Management Learning elevates a researcher's profile due to its strong metrics and interdisciplinary reach. It attracts citations from management, education, and social sciences fields. The journal's focus on practical implications aids in bridging theory and practice. Authors benefit from SAGE's marketing and the journal's established reputation. To advance your career, rate professors via Rate My Professor.

Comparison with Similar Journals

Management Learning distinguishes itself through its critical lens on learning processes.

Researcher Tips for Successful Submission

• Align your work with the journal's critical perspective on learning.
• Ensure methodological rigor and theoretical contribution.
• Engage with recent issues for contextual relevance.
• Seek feedback before submission to refine arguments.
• Highlight implications for organisational practice.

For further guidance, browse education faculty positions to see applied contexts.