Open access does not equate to low quality. Many open access journals are peer-reviewed and managed by well-respected editorial teams.
However, when selecting an open access journal, you should beware of predatory publishers. To determine the reputability of a publisher, you may wish to consult these tips from the University of Minnesota about assessing questionable publishers and these criteria for assessing scamminess by Gravia Libraria.
In general, signs of a disreputable journal may include:
- Editorial board lacks expertise in the journal's subject area
- Publisher demonstrates lack of transparency in its business operations
- Journal levies unannounced fees for publication
- Publisher has a poorly maintained website, which may include plagiarized or unlicensed guidelines or content
Signs of a reputable journal include: