Paper Series – submission guidelines

Guidance for Authors

In contrast, a ‘Perspectives On’ paper, whilst not required to be a research paper, is a more extended piece of writing (around 3000 words) with a structure more similar to a research paper . Authors are required to present an informed, well-reasoned argument and conclusion anchored in current pedagogic literature. References are required but authors should avoid presenting a research paper.  The aim is to provide an easy to read but informative discussion.

Indicative types of work accepted around thought leadership:

  • Provocative and thought-provoking narratives to prompt discussion, debate and innovative thinking that addresses current and future developments.
  • Critical review of a current perspective on a given topic of relevance.
  • Informative discussions, sharing good practice, and generating engagement with fellow academics and promoting the sharing of good practice.

Review criteria:

  1. Originality and significance of contribution for the development of the discipline of Business (i.e. submissions should not simply be descriptive accounts).
  2. Clarity and coherence of ideas presented and/or arguments made.
  3. Extent to which the work is appropriately rooted in relevant external commentary (e.g., theory, literature, policy developments, news articles, business reports).
  4. Rigor of evidence-base to justify the originality and significance of the work (note this does not necessitate the author having undertaken empirical work and so could include scholarly analysis and/or evidence from external sources and / or present an informed case study).
  5. Importance of implications for policy or practice in Business School education.

 

Style guidelines:

  • Title – eye catching / attention grabbing.
  • Short introduction / summary – 150 words max – to outline what the piece is about, and why it matters.
  • Main text –contributions should be concisely written with the word count typically between 1000 and 3000 words (excluding references). Subheadings are encouraged, as is an informal (conversational) style that is easy to read and engaging (this is not a formal academic piece of work).
  • All sources must be appropriately cited and referenced, using the Harvard referencing style.
  • Author biography including institution, role, and email address – 100 words max.
  • Font should be Calibri (Body) 11.