Call for Papers: The Experience of Muslim Students and Scholars in Academic Institutions in the West

2024-09-28

Editor

Alean Al-Krenawi, PhD
Dean and Professor of the Faculties of Humanities, Social Sciences, and Cross-Cultural Studies
Algoma University, Ontario, Canada
Email: alean.al-krenawi@algomau.ca or alean@bgu.ac.il

I am writing to share an exciting opportunity from the Journal of International Students, which is inviting scholars and practitioners to contribute to a Special Issue dedicated to exploring the multifaceted experiences of Muslim students and scholars in Western academic institutions. This Special Issue aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by these students and scholars and to identify potential strategies to address them.  More here

Context and Rationale: 

International students encounter a variety of environmental, mental, and emotional challenges, including stress, anxiety, and depression. Addressing these challenges requires a holistic approach that includes building support networks, connecting with like-minded individuals, seeking help from mental health professionals, and establishing comprehensive support systems. 

Mental health practitioners often utilize empathy to understand the challenges faced by others. However, to truly comprehend the day-to-day lives of students who move abroad for studies, we need to create a detailed picture of their experiences. This includes examining the mental, emotional, social, physical, economic, academic, and political aspects of their lives, as well as the process of acculturation and the challenges they face while adjusting to a new environment.

Topics of Interest Include:

  • Mental health and well-being of Muslim students/scholars in Western universities
  • Influence of cultural and religious identity on educational experiences
  •  Role of social support networks in the adaptation and acculturation processes
  • Language barriers and their impact on academic performance and social integration
  • Economic challenges and financial support systems available to Muslim students/scholars
  • Strategies for creating inclusive and supportive academic environments

Submission Guidelines:

We invite scholars, practitioners, and researchers to submit original research articles, theoretical papers, case studies, and reviews that contribute to the aims and scope of this volume. 

Key Dates:

  • Abstract Submission(120 words): Oct 15
  • Full Manuscript Submission: Dec 15

Abstract Submission Link

The publication fee for this special issue is discounted or waived for all scholars in need, thanks to the generous institutional support that has facilitated its publication.

Manuscript Types

Research Articles 

Research Articles (4,500-7,500 words) submissions use quantitative, qualitative, or mixed methods research to make a new and demonstratively significant advancement in under-researched aspects of the field related to topics outlined in the journal's Aims & Scope.

Research in Briefs 

The "Research in Brief" section of the Journal of International Students is designed for concise analyses of specific topics or questions, using new or existing data sources. Articles should include a brief introduction, a discussion of the data, up to two figures/tables, a maximum of 10 references, and be within 2,000 words. Titles should be under 10 words, and an abstract of 120 words or less is required and manuscripts undergo standard peer review.

Submission Process:
Manuscripts should be submitted through the Journal of International Students' online submission system, adhering to the journal's formatting and referencing style.

All authors contributing to this special issue will receive a special publication rate, including grants, discounts, and waivers available as applicable.

For further information or inquiries contact the editor:

Alean Al-Krenawi, PhD
Dean and Professor of the Faculties of Humanities, Social Sciences, and Cross-Cultural Studies
Algoma University
Ontario, Canada
Email: alean.al-krenawi@algomau.ca or alean@bgu.ac.il 

Resources for Authors/Editors:

We believe that contributions from your esteemed institution will be invaluable in enhancing our understanding of the experiences of Muslim students and scholars in Western academic settings.

Thank you for considering this opportunity. We look forward to your participation in this important endeavor.