2-MIN METRICS animated videos unveiled

The Library is excited to announce the launch of the 2-min metrics series unveiled at the annual Digital Scholarship Symposium on 20 October 2020. This project is inspired by Assistant Professor Stefanie Haustein from the University of Ottawa, who has dedicated much effort to the promotion of metrics literacies via the ScholcommLab.

Research impact metrics, such as the Journal Impact Factor and the h-index, have become standard benchmarking tools not only for assessing academic performance, but also supporting tenure and grant funding decisions. However, there is surprisingly limited understanding of how to use these tools effectively and appropriately. Criticisms include quantification, oversimplification, exploitation and unethical use, resulting in confusion and wide-spread misuse.

A project of the Library’s Scholarly Communications Team, these short and succinct 2-min videos aim to present an overview of the most popular metric tools to improve understanding and facilitate appropriate and effective use. They also explain how each metric is calculated, where they can be found, and some best practices. It is hoped that scholars can avoid common pitfalls and be empowered to critically assess and effectively use these metrics tools.

Six episodes have been completed so far. Sincere thanks are due to the following faculty members who offered their generous support. Their names appear next to the episode where their works are showcased:

EPS 1 Overview

EPS 2 Citation Counts | Dr. Kevin LO Tek Sheng, Assistant Professor, Department of Geography

EPS 3 Field-weighted Citation Impact | Prof Kara CHAN Ka Wah, Associate Dean and Professor, Department of Communication Studies

EPS 4 Altmetrics | Prof Christy M. K. CHEUNG, Professor, Department of Finance & Decision Sciences

EPS 5 h-index | Prof Jonathan WONG Woon Chung, Professor & Head of Department of Biology

EPS 6 Journal Impact Factor

Watch the 2-MIN METRICS series here.
For further reading, visit the Research Impact Guide.