|
Criteria |
Popular Periodicals |
Scholarly/Academic |
|
Author |
Journalist, reporter, or staff or freelance writer. May or may not have a byline. |
Scholar or other professional in the same field of specialization as the journal. Position or other credentials noted. |
|
Sponsorship |
Advertising copy is primary support. News stand and subscription sales. |
Publication supported by subscriptions or in many cases, membership in the professional group. |
|
Audience |
Content written for understanding by the general public or average person. |
Content directed toward a specific group with knowledge of the subject. |
|
References |
References rarely cited. May include sources for additional information or list of web links. |
Usually includes a thorough review of related literature and list of cited references. |
|
Level of language |
Written more for general knowledge or entertainment. Easily understood language. |
Serious, academic tone. May have specialized vocabulary. Narrow in focus. |
|
Purposes |
Current event or interest. May refer to recent research studies. Intended for the layperson. |
Contributes to body of knowledge on a specific subject. Shares research findings with colleagues and peers. |
|
Inclusion policies |
Articles are assigned to staff or accepted from freelance writers. |
Articles are submitted for publication and reviewed by peers before accepted. Articles are selected for publication based on established criteria. |