Reviewer Guide

As a reviewer for VORS: Journal of Community Service, your role is crucial in maintaining the high standards of quality and academic rigor in the publications. The peer review process ensures that only well-researched, well-written, and significant contributions related to community service and engagement are published. This guide aims to provide you with a clear understanding of your responsibilities and the expectations of the review process.

1. Confidentiality and Ethics:

  • Treat the manuscript and all related materials as confidential documents.
  • Do not share or discuss the manuscript with anyone outside the review process.
  • Declare any potential conflicts of interest that may influence your objectivity.
  • Maintain ethical standards by avoiding any form of bias or discrimination.

2. Initial Assessment:

  • Evaluate the manuscript's suitability for the journal's scope and aims related to community service and engagement.
  • Assess the overall quality, originality, and significance of the work.
  • Determine if the research methodology (if applicable) is appropriate and well-described.
  • Check for any obvious errors, plagiarism, or ethical concerns.

3. Comprehensive Review:

  • Provide a thorough and constructive evaluation of the manuscript.
  • Assess the clarity, organization, and coherence of the content.
  • Evaluate the quality and appropriateness of the literature review.
  • Critically analyze the research design, data collection, and analysis methods (if applicable).
  • Examine the validity and reliability of the results and conclusions
  •  Consider the theoretical and practical implications for community service and engagement.

4. Feedback and Recommendations:

  • Provide detailed and constructive feedback to the authors.
  • Highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the manuscript.
  • Suggest ways to improve the quality and clarity of the work.
  • Recommend revisions, additional analyses, or further research, if necessary.
  • Use a respectful and professional tone in your comments.

5. Recommendation:
Based on your assessment, provide a clear recommendation for the manuscript:

  • Accept as is (rare for initial submissions)
  • Accept with minor revisions
  • Accept with major revisions
  • Reject, with justification

6. Timeliness:

  •  Complete the review within the requested timeframe.
  • If you cannot meet the deadline, promptly inform the editor to allow for alternative arrangements.

7. Collaboration:

  • Be open to discussion and collaboration with the editors and other reviewers.
  • Respond to any follow-up queries or requests for clarification from the editors.