Publication Ethics and Misconducts

PEN Journal: Primary Education Nexus is a peer-reviewed academic journal committed to upholding the highest standards of publication ethics and academic integrity. This statement clarifies the ethical behavior and responsibilities of all parties involved in the process of publishing an article in this journal, including authors, the Editor-in-Chief, editorial board members, peer reviewers, and the publisher, PT Tunas Literasi Cendekia. It also addresses allegations of research misconduct and unethical publication practices. The publication ethics of this journal refers to the principles of ethical scholarly publishing and best practices for journal editors.

Ethical Guidelines for Journal Publication

The publication of an article in PEN Journal: Primary Education Nexus contributes to the development of a coherent and credible body of knowledge in basic and primary education. Published articles reflect the quality of authors’ academic work and institutional support. Peer-reviewed publications ensure that research findings, conceptual ideas, and educational innovations are evaluated through a fair and rigorous editorial process.

Therefore, clear ethical standards are established for all parties involved in publishing, including authors, editors, reviewers, and the publisher. PT Tunas Literasi Cendekia is committed to ensuring editorial independence and that publication decisions are free from commercial, institutional, or personal influence.

Allegations of Research Misconduct

Research misconduct includes fabrication, falsification, citation manipulation, plagiarism, inappropriate authorship, duplicate publication, unethical research practices, or any action that compromises academic integrity. Such misconduct may occur during any stage of research or publication.

When misconduct is suspected, the editorial team will investigate the allegation fairly, objectively, and transparently. Authors may be asked to provide explanations, and independent reviewers or experts may be involved when necessary.

If misconduct is confirmed, manuscripts may be rejected or retracted. The journal may issue corrections, expressions of concern, or retractions depending on severity.

Publication Decisions

Editorial decisions are based on originality, academic quality, methodological rigor, relevance, clarity, ethical compliance, and contribution to primary education. Editors may consult reviewers and editorial board members when necessary.

Complaints and Appeals

The journal provides procedures for complaints regarding peer review, editorial decisions, misconduct, or ethical concerns. Appeals must be academically justified and not based solely on dissatisfaction with rejection.

Fair Play

Editorial decisions are based solely on academic merit, regardless of personal characteristics such as gender, religion, nationality, or institutional affiliation.

Confidentiality

All submitted manuscripts are confidential and may only be shared with authorized editorial personnel and reviewers.

Disclosure and Conflicts of Interest

Editors, reviewers, and authors must disclose any conflicts of interest. Unpublished materials must not be used for personal advantage.

Duties of Reviewers

Reviewers assist editorial decisions and must provide objective, constructive, and timely evaluations. Manuscripts must be treated as confidential, and conflicts of interest must be disclosed. Reviewers must also identify relevant missing citations and ensure academic integrity.

Duties of Authors

Authors must ensure originality, accuracy, proper citation, and ethical research conduct. Plagiarism, duplicate submission, and data fabrication are strictly prohibited. Authors must retain data, disclose conflicts of interest, and ensure proper authorship attribution.

Ethical research involving human participants, especially children or vulnerable groups, must follow informed consent procedures and institutional ethical standards.

Publisher’s Responsibilities

PT Tunas Literasi Cendekia supports editorial independence and ensures ethical publishing standards are maintained. The publisher assists in handling misconduct cases, corrections, and retractions when necessary.