Without a Tail, it is not a Cat: Writing an Acceptable Abstract

Abstract

The enthusiasm to write research-based articles for the annual International Journal of Open and Distance Learning is high among budding researchers. Editorial experience has, however, shown two critical gaps addressed in this study, namely rejection of above 90% of abstracts by the Chief Editor, and the increasing unwillingness by interested authors to submit abstracts for fear of the abstracts being rejected. The study aimed at assessing shortcomings in the sample of 30 abstracts reviewed in the past three years. The research was conducted around the construct of ‘an abstract’ as explained by research scholars. Content analysis of the 30 abstracts was the preferred method, used in conjunction with a pre-determined quality evaluation criteria instrument. Data analysis involved numerical measurement and interpretation of the presence or absence of quality criteria in a given abstract. Some of the findings were vaguely cast problem statements, and a visible absence of some of the elements expected in an abstract. This led to a number of conclusions, including one about lack of awareness by writers regarding how to write an acceptable abstract. One recommendation was that the Editor of the Journal should give written guidance to budding writers on how to write an abstract.

Keywords: Article, Abstract, Evaluation Criteria