Corrections, Concerns, and Retractions Policy

At-Ta’dib: Journal of Pesantren Education is committed to maintaining the accuracy, transparency, and integrity of the scholarly record. The journal handles corrections, expressions of concern, retractions, and manuscript withdrawals in accordance with the seriousness of each case and applicable publication ethics standards.

1. Corrections

A correction may be published when an error or omission is identified in a published article but does not invalidate its principal findings or conclusions. Examples include significant errors in data presentation, author information, references, or other published content. The editorial team will assess the reported error and determine whether a formal correction is necessary. Any correction notice will clearly identify the affected article and explain the changes made.

2. Expressions of Concern

An expression of concern may be issued when credible concerns arise about the reliability or integrity of a published article, but the available evidence is insufficient to reach a definitive conclusion, or an investigation remains ongoing. The notice will explain the nature of the concern as clearly as appropriate. The journal will review the matter when further information becomes available and determine whether additional action, including a correction or retraction, is warranted.

3. Retractions

A published article may be retracted when there is reliable evidence that its findings are seriously flawed or its integrity has been substantially compromised. Grounds for retraction may include:

1. Significant errors that invalidate the findings or conclusions.
2. Plagiarism or substantial redundant publication.
3. Fabrication, falsification, or manipulation of data or research results.
4. Serious violations of research or publication ethics.
5. Other circumstances that substantially undermine the reliability or integrity of the article.

The Editor-in-Chief or an authorized editor will assess the evidence and make the final editorial decision. Authors will normally be informed and given an appropriate opportunity to respond. A retraction may proceed even if one or more authors disagree, when the evidence justifies the decision. A retraction notice will identify the article, explain the reasons for retraction, and link to the original publication. The article will remain accessible where possible, clearly marked as retracted, to preserve the scholarly record.

4. Manuscript Withdrawal Before Publication

Authors who wish to withdraw a manuscript before publication must submit a written request to the editorial office, stating the reason for withdrawal. The request must be authorized by the corresponding author on behalf of all co-authors, and the journal may seek confirmation from the other authors where necessary. Withdrawal requests will be assessed by the editorial team, particularly when peer review or production has already begun. Authors must not submit the same manuscript to another journal while it remains under consideration by At-Ta’dib. Withdrawal of an unpublished manuscript is distinct from retraction of an article that has already been published.

5. Reporting Concerns and Editorial Procedures

Authors, readers, reviewers, and other relevant parties may report suspected errors or ethical concerns to the editorial office. Reports should include sufficient information or supporting evidence to enable an assessment. The journal will examine each case fairly and confidentially, seek clarification from relevant parties where appropriate, and take proportionate action based on the available evidence. Editorial decisions will be guided by the need to protect the integrity of the scholarly record rather than to punish individuals. This policy follows the principles outlined in the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE) guidance on retractions and publication ethics.