The Qualis effect: A comparative case study of the Brazilian rating system for peer-reviewed journals

Abstract

In recent years, Impact Factor scores have been criticized due to misuse. The growing acceptance of Impact Factor scores in many Brazilian subject areas has created this recent discussion, mainly because Brazil has its own rating system for journals: Qualis. The whole system follows governmental directions under the Ministry of Education, and it has been criticized as a monopolized evaluation system that accepts Impact Factor scores as tools for measuring quality. Despite being under ministerial instruction, each subject area adapts the system, applies Impact Factor scores as a valid measure, or does not accept the scores at all and utilizes other ways to measure qualified journals. Here, we will attempt to show that the Brazilian system is more complex than previously thought. We will also advocate for the possible adoption of a rating system that does not follow any kind of metric system for rating journals. To conclude, we will address the fact that what has to change in Brazil is the unrealistic use of Impact Factor scores, rather than the whole governmental system.