Author Guidelines

Instructions for Authors

Thank you for considering the Asia-Pacific Journal of Social Innovation (APJSI) for your submission. Authors are strongly encouraged to read and follow these guidelines carefully, as submissions that do not comply may be returned prior to review.

About the Journal

Established in 1982, APJSI is a peer-reviewed, open access journal published by Mindanao State University–Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT). The journal welcomes interdisciplinary contributions on social innovation, particularly those grounded in the Asia-Pacific region and Global South contexts.

The journal accepts submissions from scholars, researchers, practitioners, and policy actors, including research articles, policy and practice papers, case studies, and reflective or field-based essays that demonstrate real-world relevance and impact.

Peer Review and Editorial Policy

All submissions undergo a double-blind peer review process, ensuring anonymity between authors and reviewers. Manuscripts are evaluated based on originality, methodological rigor, clarity of argument, and contribution to knowledge and practice.

Preparing Your Manuscript

Article Types

Research Articles (6,000–8,000 words)
Research Articles present original and rigorous scholarly work that advances theoretical, empirical, or methodological understanding of social innovation and related fields. These papers should demonstrate clear research questions, appropriate methodologies, and strong analytical depth. Submissions are expected to engage with relevant literature and contribute to academic debates. Interdisciplinary and contextually grounded studies are particularly encouraged.

Policy and Practice Papers (3,000–3,500 words)
Policy and Practice Papers focus on the application of research to real-world contexts, offering insights into programs, interventions, or policy processes. These papers should highlight lessons learned, challenges encountered, and implications for practice or decision-making. Contributions from practitioners, policymakers, and development actors are especially welcome. The emphasis is on actionable knowledge and relevance to ongoing social innovation efforts.

Case Studies and Field Reports (4,000–5,000 words)
Case Studies and Field Reports provide detailed accounts of specific projects, communities, or initiatives. These submissions should document experiences from the field, including context, processes, outcomes, and reflections on what worked and what did not. While less theory-heavy, they should still offer analytical insights and broader relevance. Strong emphasis is placed on grounded, context-rich narratives.

Reflective Essays (2,000–2,500 words)
Reflective Essays offer critical and personal reflections on research, practice, or engagement in the field of social innovation. These essays may explore positionality, methodological challenges, ethical dilemmas, or experiential learning. Authors are encouraged to write in a thoughtful and accessible manner while maintaining analytical depth. Contributions that bridge personal experience with broader scholarly or practical insights are highly valued.

Language

Manuscripts must be written in clear and professional English (American English spelling and conventions are required). Submissions in Filipino may be considered, provided that an English abstract is included. Authors are encouraged to use inclusive, bias-free, and respectful language.

Structure

Manuscripts should generally include:

• Title page (author names, affiliations, and contact details)

• Abstract (150–250 words)

• Keywords (4–6 keywords)

• Main text (Introduction, Methods/Approach, Analysis/Discussion)

• Conclusion and Implications

• References

For peer review, authors must submit an anonymized version of the manuscript with all identifying information removed.

Formatting

• Font: Times New Roman, 12 pt

• Spacing: Double-spaced

• Length: Based on article type (see above)

Tables and figures must be embedded within the text and clearly labeled.

References

APJSI follows the APA (7th edition) citation style. All in-text citations must correspond to the reference list. Authors are responsible for ensuring accuracy and completeness, including DOIs or URLs where available.

Submission Process

Manuscripts must be submitted through the journal’s online system. Authors are required to register prior to submission and provide complete metadata (title, abstract, keywords, affiliations). If there are errors, please email us at: ovcre.ord@g.msuiit.edu.ph

Before submission, authors must ensure that the manuscript fully complies with all journal guidelines, including formatting, structure, referencing, and anonymization. Submissions that do not meet these requirements may be returned for correction prior to peer review.

Submissions must not be under consideration by another journal.

Publication Ethics and Responsibilities

Authors must ensure that:

• The manuscript is original and properly cites all sources

• Data and findings are accurate and not fabricated or manipulated

• All listed authors have approved the submission

• Any conflicts of interest are disclosed

The journal reserves the right to reject or retract manuscripts that violate ethical standards.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI)

APJSI recognizes that authors may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools (e.g., for language editing, grammar checking, or drafting support) in the preparation of manuscripts. However, such use must be responsible, transparent, and limited in scope.

• AI tools must not be listed as authors or credited with authorship.

• Authors remain fully accountable for the accuracy, originality, and integrity of all content, including any text or output generated with AI assistance.

• Any use of AI tools must be clearly disclosed in the manuscript (e.g., in the acknowledgments or methodology section), specifying how the tool was used.

• AI tools must not be used to generate, fabricate, or manipulate data, results, or citations, nor to produce misleading or unverifiable content.

• Authors are expected to critically review and validate any AI-assisted output prior to submission.

Failure to disclose AI use or misuse of AI tools may result in rejection, retraction, or other editorial actions.

Open Access Policy

APJSI is an open access journal. All published articles are freely available to readers without subscription or access fees.

Copyright and Permissions

Authors are responsible for obtaining permission to reproduce any copyrighted material. Published materials may not be reproduced without proper authorization.

Submission Checklist

Before submitting, please ensure that:

• The manuscript fits the journal’s scope

• All required sections are included

• Formatting and referencing follow the guidelines

• The manuscript has been anonymized for peer review

• Figures and tables are properly labeled and placed

Contact

For inquiries, please contact:
ovcre.ord@g.msuiit.edu.ph