editorial board
phrasePronunciation: /ˌedɪˈtɔːriəl bɔːrd/
A group of subject matter experts who provide scholarly oversight and guidance for an academic journal's editorial policies and content selection.
Full Definition
An editorial board consists of distinguished scholars and researchers in a particular field who collaborate with the editor-in-chief to maintain the academic quality and reputation of a scholarly journal. Board members typically assist in peer review coordination, provide expertise in specialized areas, offer strategic guidance on editorial policies, and help maintain the journal's scholarly standards. They may also contribute to special issues, advise on controversial submissions, and lend their academic credibility to the publication.
Plain English
A team of respected experts in a field who help a scholarly journal decide which articles to publish and maintain high academic standards.
In Editorial Context
The governing scholarly body that provides intellectual leadership, editorial oversight, and academic credibility to ensure the journal maintains its scholarly mission and quality standards.
Etymology & History
Evolved with the formalization of peer review and the need for scholarly oversight in academic publishing.
Originally informal groups of advisors, became formalized governance structures with defined roles and responsibilities.
Usage
"The library's journal evaluation criteria include assessment of the editorial board's expertise and international representation."
Usage note: Size and structure vary by discipline, with some journals having large international boards and others maintaining smaller, more focused groups.
Context: journal governance, peer review systems, scholarly publishing, academic reputation
Region: international
Also known as
Don't confuse with
Sometimes confused with review boards, but editorial boards have broader governance responsibilities beyond just peer review.