Are altmetrics reliable indicators of impact?

What are altmetrics and how do they differ from traditional metrics?

Altmetrics are alternative metrics that measure the impact of research outputs through online activity, like social media mentions, whereas traditional metrics focus on citation counts in academic journals.

Are altmetrics considered reliable indicators of research impact?

While altmetrics provide valuable insights into public engagement and interest, they may not fully reflect academic impact, so they should be used alongside traditional metrics.

What are some examples of altmetrics?

Examples of altmetrics include social media shares, blog mentions, downloads, and views on platforms like ResearchGate or Mendeley.

How can researchers effectively use altmetrics?

Researchers can use altmetrics to gauge public interest, enhance visibility, and engage with broader audiences, complementing traditional metrics.