Scientific publication is one of the key aspects that postgraduate students should prepare from an early stage. This was conveyed by Sasmita Gandawanti, S.E., Journal Manager of the Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FKG UGM), during the Postgraduate Academic Support Activity on Friday (7/11).
Sasmita highlighted the common tendency among students to begin writing scientific articles only toward the end of their study period, often resulting in rushed work. She recommended starting earlier by writing narrative reviews or systematic reviews. A narrative review provides a qualitative overview of a topic based on the author’s expertise, whereas a systematic review follows a highly rigorous and structured methodology to answer specific research questions
“Both types of articles can be prepared without waiting for primary data from the thesis research to be completed, allowing students to work on them much earlier,” Sasmita explained.
She also warned about the growing prevalence of predatory journals that offer rapid publication processes at high costs. Students were advised to be vigilant regarding such offers. Predatory journals are not only financially harmful but also result in scientific work that is not academically recognized.
One of the most common characteristics of predatory journals is the promise of extremely fast publication, sometimes within just a few days. This should raise suspicion, as the peer-review process generally takes weeks or even months.
“We should also be cautious if publication fees are relatively high and only disclosed after the manuscript has been accepted. Always double-check the credibility of a journal before submitting an article,” she added.
As a final step, students were urged to always assess a journal’s reputation prior to submission. One recommended approach is using the Beallslist to help avoid predatory journals.
Publication requirements for FKG UGM students also vary by educational level. Master’s and specialist dental students are required to publish at least one scientific article in a journal accredited at a minimum of Sinta 2, while doctoral students must publish two scientific articles in nationally accredited journals or internationally reputable journals.
Currently, FKG UGM manages two scientific journals: Majalah Kedokteran Gigi Indonesia (MKGI) and Majalah Kedokteran Gigi Klinis (MKGK). MKGI is accredited at Sinta 2 and is in the process of applying for an accreditation upgrade toward Scopus indexing. “We are working to ensure that MKGI becomes indexed in Scopus, so that the quality of publications by FKG UGM lecturers and students gains stronger international recognition,” she concluded.
Author and Photographer: Fajar Budi Harsakti
