What are altmetrics and why are they important?

What are altmetrics and why are they important?

Altmetrics are alternative metrics that measure the impact of research outputs through online activity. They are important because they provide a broader view of research impact beyond traditional citations, capturing engagement on social media, news outlets, and other platforms.

How do altmetrics differ from traditional metrics?

Traditional metrics, like citation counts, focus on academic impact, while altmetrics consider diverse online interactions, reflecting public engagement and influence.

Can you give examples of altmetrics?

Sure! Examples of altmetrics include mentions in social media, downloads, views, bookmarks, and discussions in online forums.

How can researchers use altmetrics?

Researchers can use altmetrics to showcase the broader impact of their work, engage with the public, and enhance their visibility in their field.

Are there any tools to track altmetrics?

Yes, there are several tools like Altmetric.com, PlumX, and Impactstory that help track and analyze altmetrics for research outputs.