PEN Journal: Primary Education Nexus is a double-blind peer-reviewed academic journal. Every submitted manuscript undergoes editorial screening and peer review before being considered for publication. In a double-blind system, both authors and reviewers remain anonymous to each other to ensure objectivity and fairness.

Peer review is conducted to assess the academic quality, originality, relevance, methodological rigor, clarity, and contribution of manuscripts in the field of basic and primary education. The process ensures the quality, credibility, and integrity of published articles.

Each manuscript is evaluated based on:

• Originality and novelty
• Relevance to journal scope
• Methodological quality
• Clarity of objectives and research questions
• Quality of analysis and discussion
• Contribution to education field
• Ethical compliance
• Writing clarity and structure
• Accuracy of references
• Reviewer recommendations

The typical review period is 8–12 weeks, depending on reviewer availability, manuscript quality, and revision needs.

The Editor-in-Chief holds final authority over acceptance, revision, or rejection decisions.

Peer Review Stages

1. Manuscript Submission

Authors submit manuscripts via OJS and must follow journal guidelines. Identifying information must be removed from the manuscript to ensure double-blind review.

2. Editorial Screening

The editorial team checks scope alignment, structure, formatting, completeness, and ethical compliance. Non-compliant manuscripts may be returned.

3. Similarity Check

Submitted manuscripts are checked for plagiarism, duplication, and improper citation practices. Serious violations may lead to rejection.

4. Editorial Evaluation

The Editor-in-Chief assesses originality, relevance, and methodological soundness. Manuscripts may be rejected without external review if not suitable.

5. Reviewer Invitation

At least two expert reviewers are invited based on expertise and absence of conflict of interest.

6. Reviewer Response

Reviewers may accept or decline invitations. Accepted reviewers must complete evaluations within the assigned timeframe.

7. Review Process

Reviewers evaluate manuscripts and recommend:

• Accept
• Minor revisions
• Major revisions
• Resubmit
• Reject

Comments are sent anonymously through OJS.

8. Editorial Decision

Editors consider reviewer feedback and make final decisions. Additional reviewers may be involved if needed.

9. Revision Process

Authors revise manuscripts and submit responses to reviewers. Revised manuscripts may be re-evaluated depending on revision level.

10. Copyediting and Publication

Accepted manuscripts undergo copyediting, layout, proofreading, and final publication. Articles are published online in open access format.