The status quo bias and the uptake of open access Journal Article uri icon

Overview

abstract

  • In this paper we argue that the framing of open access through language adopted by a variety of stakeholders serves to inhibit the uptake of open access publishing through the mechanisms of complexity and cognitive load. Using both quantitative and qualitative methods, we analyze both the language and tiers of decisions that confront authors seeking information online about open access. We conclude that this information is for the most part prohibitively complex and introduces contradictory interpretations and executions of open access that act to motivate a phenomenon known as the status quo bias. The only reliable method of counteracting this status quo bias in order to bolster the uptake of open access is to re-frame the language that is commonly employed in association with open access and to minimize the tiers of decisions expected of authors, which create a barrier rather than a gateway to open access engagement.

publication date

  • June 30, 2019

has restriction

  • green

Date in CU Experts

  • January 16, 2020 12:22 PM

Full Author List

  • Cantrell MH; Collister LB

author count

  • 2

Other Profiles

Electronic International Standard Serial Number (EISSN)

  • 1396-0466