Correction and Retraction

Correction and Retraction Policy for Knowledge and Child Development in Early Childhood and Kindergarten (KACIAK)

Knowledge and Child Development in Early Childhood and Kindergarten (KACIAK) is committed to maintaining the integrity, accuracy, transparency, and reliability of the scholarly record. Corrections and retractions are handled in accordance with recognized publication ethics principles and the guidelines of the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE).

1. Correction

• Corrections are issued when errors are identified in a published article, such as typographical mistakes, inaccurate information, errors in data or statistical analysis, incorrect author information, or other errors that may mislead readers but do not fundamentally invalidate the main findings or conclusions of the article.
• Correction requests may be submitted by authors, readers, reviewers, or editors after publication.
• Upon verification, the journal will publish an official correction linked to the original article to maintain transparency and the accuracy of the scholarly record.
• Corrections may also be considered when clarification is necessary regarding research methodology, participant information, ethical procedures, or other relevant aspects of a published study.
• The purpose of corrections is to amend the published record while preserving the integrity and reliability of the research.

2. Retraction

• Retraction of an article may occur when serious errors substantially affect the validity or reliability of the research findings, or when serious ethical violations are identified.
• Reasons for retraction may include plagiarism, fabrication or falsification of data, duplicate publication, serious authorship misconduct, unreliable research findings, or unethical research practices.
• For research involving children or other potentially vulnerable participants, retraction may also be considered when serious violations of participant protection, informed consent, confidentiality, ethical approval, or other applicable ethical requirements are identified.
• The retraction process follows the principles and guidelines of the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE) and may involve an investigation by the editors and, when necessary, the authors' affiliated institutions.
• Retractions will be clearly announced and linked to the original article so that readers are fully informed of the reason for the retraction.
• Retracted articles will normally remain accessible with a clear and prominent retraction notice to ensure transparency and preserve the integrity of the scholarly record.

3. Handling Procedure

• Suspected errors, research misconduct, or ethical violations may be reported by anyone, including authors, readers, reviewers, editors, research institutions, or other members of the academic community.
• The editors will conduct an initial assessment and may request clarification, supporting documentation, research data, ethical approval information, consent documentation, or other relevant evidence from the authors.
• Where necessary, the journal may contact the authors' affiliated institutions or relevant authorities to assist in investigating serious ethical concerns.
• If the issue is confirmed, appropriate corrective action will be taken, including publication of a correction, expression of concern, or retraction, depending on the nature and severity of the issue.
• In cases of disputes or disagreements, the journal will follow relevant COPE guidelines and established editorial procedures to ensure a fair, transparent, and consistent resolution.

4. Responsibilities of All Parties

• Authors are responsible for ensuring the accuracy, originality, ethical compliance, and integrity of the research, data, methodology, analysis, and content presented in their articles.
• Authors are particularly responsible for ensuring that research involving children, parents, teachers, or other participants complies with applicable ethical requirements and adequately protects participant rights, privacy, safety, dignity, and well-being.
• Editors and reviewers are responsible for supporting the quality, reliability, and integrity of the peer-review and publication process.
• The journal is committed to preserving an accurate, transparent, and trustworthy scholarly record by providing clear and appropriate mechanisms for correction, expression of concern, and retraction when necessary.