The Master of Communication Science Program at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) has once again hosted the Student Communication Discussion (DISKOMA). In its 13th edition, DISKOMA addressed “Becoming an Intellectual: Integrity and Scientific Responsibility.”
The topic was chosen in response to the recent discussions surrounding Indonesia’s academic climate and publication ecosystem. The speakers included Mariessa Giswandhani (Lecturer and Education Content Creator), Ahmad Effendi (Reporter for Mojok.co), and Albertus Fani Prasetyawan (Master’s student in Communication Science).
Prasetyawan discussed the fundamental role of research in human life by referencing Plato’s philosophy, which divides the human soul into three parts: Epithumia (desires and intentions), Thumos (courage and determination), and Logisticon (pursuit of truth and knowledge). He explained that these elements are reflected in the research process.
Prasetyawan, who has presented his research at prestigious international conferences, noted that the publication process involves verifying the credibility of the targeted journals. However, he pointed out that a significant issue in Indonesia’s publication landscape is the ministry’s policy on research and publication, which has commodified academic works for institutions and academics.
Ahmad Effendi, a writer and journalist, discussed the repercussions of academic publication fraud. He emphasized the increase in retracted journals by Indonesian authors over the past five years and attributed this trend to systemic practices such as predatory journals, ghostwriting, and plagiarism.
Effendi noted that approximately 10 billion rupiah has been spent on problematic publications during the pandemic, creating pseudo-data that misleads policymakers and ultimately harms grassroots communities.
From an academic perspective, Mariessa Giswandhani explained the link between regulations and the realization of scientific publications. She acknowledged that academic violations such as fabrication, falsification, plagiarism, misattribution, conflicts of interest, and duplicate submissions have been rampant in Indonesia. These violations have been exacerbated by the publication demands placed on master’s students.
As a lecturer, Giswandhani lamented the government’s lack of action regarding student pressure, the need for ethics education, and the insufficient oversight of academic publications.
The virtual discussion concluded with an exchange of ideas and perspectives among participants from various backgrounds. The role of technological advancements, such as artificial intelligence (AI) and algorithms, was also mentioned in the issues within Indonesia’s publication environment.
Dr. Rahayu, Head of the Master of Communication Science Program, expressed hope that exchanging views in this discussion would provide insights into maintaining scientific integrity.
Author: Agung Nugroho