Title: Scholarly research outputs and vulnerability of Nigerian lecturers to predatory journals

Authors: Ogagaoghene Uzezi Idhalama; Kingsley Efe Osawaru; Magnus Osahon Igbinovia; Prisca Iheoma Nwachukwu

Addresses: Department of Library and Information Science, Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma-Edo State, Nigeria ' College of Education Library, Ekiadolor, Benin-City, Edo State, Nigeria ' University Library, Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Edo State, Nigeria ' University Main Library, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Nigeria

Abstract: This study investigated scholarly research outputs and vulnerability of Nigerian lecturers to predatory journals. Five objectives were formulated to guide the study. A descriptive survey research design was adopted using the online Google form to collect data/responses from lecturers across board in Nigeria. The population of the study comprised lecturers in Nigeria. The sampling technique used for the study was the total enumeration sampling technique (107) as the whole responses were analysed using frequencies, percentages, mean and standard deviation for easy appreciation and comprehension, with the aid of SPSS Version 23. It was found that: the research outputs by Nigerian lecturers appear to be a little bit low; Nigerian lecturers obviously know the reputable journals that are available; and many Nigerian authors and writers do not publish in high reputable journals. Some of the challenges recorded are high cost/finance, problem of delayed review process, high rejection rate by reputable journal and rigorous online submission process. Also, the idea of compulsorily publishing in high impact journals rather than focus on the quality of the research output, before promoting lecturers is misplaced and should be reviewed. Recommendations were made in line with the findings of the study.

Keywords: research outputs; lecturers research outputs; lecturers and predatory journals; Nigerian lecturers research outputs; lecturers scholarly research.

DOI: 10.1504/IJEASA.2024.137225

International Journal of Education, Arts and Social Issues in Africa, 2024 Vol.1 No.1, pp.34 - 51

Received: 25 Sep 2022
Accepted: 23 May 2023
Published online: 05 Mar 2024 *