Correction and Retraction Policy

The International Journal of Science Education and Cultural Studies, published by Sultan Publisher, is committed to preserving the accuracy, reliability, and integrity of the scholarly record. The journal may publish corrections, expressions of concern, or retractions when significant issues affecting a published article are identified.

1. Corrections

A correction may be issued when an error in a published article requires amendment but does not invalidate the overall findings or conclusions. Examples include significant factual errors, author information errors, incorrect figures or tables, and other inaccuracies that may affect readers' understanding of the article. Requests for correction must identify the published article, describe the error, and provide the proposed correction and supporting information. The editorial team will assess the request and may consult the authors or independent experts. Approved corrections will clearly identify the affected article and explain the changes made.

2. Expressions of Concern

An expression of concern may be issued when credible questions arise about the reliability, integrity, or ethical compliance of a published article, but the available evidence is insufficient for a final decision or an investigation remains unresolved. The journal will assess the available information and may publish an expression of concern to inform readers while the matter is being investigated. Further action will depend on the outcome of the assessment.

3. Retractions

Retraction may be considered when substantial evidence indicates that a published article is unreliable or that serious ethical violations have occurred. Grounds may include, but are not limited to:

• Major errors that invalidate the findings or conclusions.
• Fabrication, falsification, or serious manipulation of research data.
• Plagiarism or substantial unattributed duplication.
• Improper publication practices, including serious cases of redundant publication.
• Unethical research practices or other serious breaches of publication ethics.
• Other circumstances that materially undermine the reliability or integrity of the scholarly record.

Retraction decisions will be based on the available evidence and a fair assessment of the circumstances. Authors will normally be contacted and given an opportunity to respond, where practicable. Retraction does not necessarily imply deliberate misconduct by every author.

4. Retraction Notice and Article Record

A retraction notice will identify the affected article and explain the reason for retraction as clearly as possible. The notice should be linked to the original article, and the article's retracted status should remain clearly identifiable in the journal's online record. The journal will preserve the publication record and will not silently remove or replace an article solely because it has been retracted.

5. Reporting Concerns

Authors, readers, reviewers, and other interested parties may report suspected errors or ethical concerns to the International Journal of Science Education and Cultural Studies editorial office. Reports should provide sufficient details and supporting evidence to allow a fair assessment. The journal may request clarification, consult relevant experts, contact the authors or their institutions where appropriate, and take proportionate action based on the findings. All parties will be treated fairly, and confidentiality will be maintained to the extent reasonably possible.

6. Editorial Responsibility

The editorial team is responsible for assessing correction and retraction requests and determining appropriate action. Decisions will prioritize the accuracy of the scholarly record, research integrity, transparency, and fairness to all parties. This policy applies to articles published in the International Journal of Science Education and Cultural Studies and should be read alongside the journal's publication ethics, peer-review, and conflict-of-interest policies.