Since 2021, Research in Applied Linguistics (RALs) has adopted a publishing model that includes both regular and special (thematic) issues. The purpose of special issues is to present curated collections of high-quality articles on specific themes that align with the aims and scope of the journal. All special issues are subject to the same editorial standards, peer review processes, and ethical policies as regular issues.
- The Editor-in-Chief has ultimate responsibility for the content of the journal, including special issues, which must remain within the scope of RALs.
- All manuscripts submitted to special issues undergo the same editorial checks and external peer review as regular submissions. Articles are clearly labeled on the journal’s website and in their metadata as part of a special issue.
- Distinguished scholars may be invited to serve as guest editors. Their academic credentials are verified and approved by RALs. Guest editors prepare the Call for Papers (CFP) in collaboration with the Editor-in-Chief, and their work is monitored by both the Editor-in-Chief and the Assistant Editor throughout the editorial process. Guest editors may recommend reviewers, but all reviewers are formally appointed through the journal’s system and approved by the Editor-in-Chief.
- Submissions authored or co-authored by guest editors for their own special issue are managed directly by the Editor-in-Chief and evaluated by independent reviewers. Guest editors are not involved in the review of their own work, and such submissions must not exceed 25% of the content of the special issue
- While RALs typically publishes one regular issue and one special issue per year, all special issues adhere to the same rigorous editorial standards to ensure consistency and quality across the journal
