Submission Types

Peer-Reviewed Articles

Original research papers: 3500–5000 words

Original research papers report on original empirical research, i.e., primary source. These papers report the methods and results of an original research study performed by the author(s). They can include methods and results concluded from analyzing raw data and conclusions drawn from the results of the analysis or focus on teaching and learning, research and innovation, and insights and observations resulting from participation in a research project or case study. We are especially interested in articles that inquire into driving improvement to student-centred academic programming and students’ learning outcomes. Papers may take a qualitative or quantitative approach (or a combination) – authors must clearly identify their approach.

Review articles: 3500–5000 words

Review articles provide a balanced synopsis of the current literature within a specific area of inquiry i.e., secondary source. These articles do not report original research of their own. Instead, they draw upon original research articles to suggest new research directions, strengthening support for existing theories and/or identifying patterns among existing research studies for further inquiry. Review articles should summarize the literature comprehensively and identify outstanding questions and areas for future inquiry.

Brief reports: 2500–3500 words

Brief reports are papers that report on empirical research but are shorter and more limited in scope. Examples of research that might be presented in this format include results from a pilot study, findings from a study with a small sample size that show promise of large effect size, case studies for classrooms, research using a simple design and answering a single, specific question, or reports from an early phase of a project that is still ongoing.

Brief reports are suitable for presentation of research that extends previously published research, including the reporting of additional controls and confirmatory results in other settings, as well as negative results. Authors must clearly acknowledge any work upon which they are building, both published and unpublished.

Non-Peer-Reviewed Articles

Innovation spotlights: 2500–3500 words

Innovation spotlights highlight innovative practices, approaches, or tools and provide accompanying evidence that speaks to the effectiveness of the innovation, including but not limited to an innovative teaching practice or methodology benefitting academia, industry and community partners. Innovation spotlights should include a brief review of the most relevant literature to situate the approach.

Essays: 1500–2500 words

The primary purpose of an essay is to advance a new idea, summarize a development, or initiate or engage in discussion. They may be narrower in scope than the above categories, but the subject matter should be of general scholarly interest. Essays may experiment with style, tone, and voice. A strong essay will start a new and interesting scholarly conversation.

Book reviews: 1500–2500 words

Scholarly reviews of books are considered for publication, depending on the relevance of the book for the journal readership. These papers should present a summary of the book as well as a thoughtful reflection on the book’s strengths and weaknesses. Of critical importance is that the review situates the book within a teaching and learning as well as research and innovation framework.

Invited commentary: 1500–2500 words

Invited commentaries will occasionally be included in the journal, particularly as part of a special issue. The commentaries are short articles that describe a researcher’s or an investigator’s position on a specific current subject that is in line with the larger theme of the journal. The commentaries do not require abstracts and will not be peer-reviewed; however, they will be reviewed by the editorial team for suitability, accuracy and appropriateness.

Presentation summary: 1500–2500 words

Presentation summaries are brief summaries of presentations given at peer-reviewed conferences as part of the publication of conference proceedings. For reference, please take inspiration from JIPE Volume 2, No. 1 Special Issue: Proceedings of the Polytechnics Canada 2019 Annual Showcase(jipe.ca/index.php/jipe/issue/view/3)