Use of open access journals in biomedicine in Greece
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this research project is to explore the impact of open access initiatives on biomedical research scientific publishing and scholarly communication in Greece.
Design/methodology/approach
The paper presents the preliminary findings from a longitudinal study that uses bibliometrics, questionnaire surveys and interviews to examine knowledge, awareness and attitudes towards open access.
Findings
Open access models vary considerably. The bibliometric research indicates that Greek biomedical publication is increasing, but that coverage of Greek medical journals in databases such as MEDLINE is decreasing. The picture is mixed with some evidence of open access journals (published in English) from Greek publishing bases. Awareness of open access among Greek biomedical scientists in date was comparatively low (58 per cent aware, n=70).
Research limitations/implications
Several Greek medical journals are published in English, and it is difficult to track the authorship for Greek researchers publishing in English language journals published elsewhere. Findings are preliminary as this is a longitudinal survey.
Social implications
Open access initiatives may privilege researchers from the English speaking world – or those in low income countries. Researchers from countries not in those categories may face unrecognised disadvantages in making their research visible.
Originality/value
This is the only study of Greek biomedical publishing, and comparisons are being made with similar studies of Spanish biomedical publishing.
Keywords
Citation
Vlachaki, A. and Urquhart, C. (2010), "Use of open access journals in biomedicine in Greece", Library Management, Vol. 31 No. 1/2, pp. 19-26. https://doi.org/10.1108/01435121011013368
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
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