Peer Review Policy

The Libyan Open University Journal of Applied Sciences (LOUJAS) is committed to publishing high-quality, scientifically sound research. To achieve this, the journal enforces a rigorous double-blind peer review process for all submitted manuscripts.

1. The Double-Blind Review Model

The double-blind review model is the foundation of our policy. In this system, the identities of the authors are concealed from the reviewers, and the identities of the reviewers are concealed from the authors. This ensures an unbiased evaluation of the manuscript's scientific merit, free from personal or professional biases.

2. The Review Process

The peer review process at LOUJAS follows these key steps:

  • Initial Screening: Upon submission, the editorial office performs a preliminary check to ensure the manuscript adheres to the journal’s scope and formatting requirements. Manuscripts that fail this check may be rejected at this stage.

  • Reviewer Assignment: The Editor-in-Chief or a designated editor assigns the manuscript to at least two independent, qualified experts in the relevant field.

  • Expert Evaluation: Reviewers are tasked with providing a comprehensive assessment of the manuscript. They evaluate the originality, scientific rigor, methodology, clarity, and overall contribution to the field. They then provide a recommendation to the editor (e.g., accept, minor revisions, major revisions, or reject) along with detailed comments for the authors.

  • Editorial Decision: The Editor-in-Chief makes the final decision on the manuscript's publication, taking into account the reviewers’ feedback and the editorial board's judgment.

3. Roles and Responsibilities

  • Authors: Must submit original, unpublished work and fully cooperate with the peer review process by addressing reviewer comments thoroughly and in a timely manner.

  • Reviewers: Are responsible for providing objective, constructive, and timely feedback. They must maintain the confidentiality of the manuscript and refrain from using any information from the review process for personal gain.

  • Editors: Must ensure the peer review process is fair, confidential, and timely. They are responsible for making an impartial final decision based on the feedback received.