The Use of Hypermedia Videos in Scientific Journals: A Study of the Journal of Visualized Experiments (JOVE)

Abstract

In this article we discuss the use of hypermedia videos in scientific journals. To do this, an analysis of the Journal of Visualized Experiments (JOVE) was carried out; its conceptual basis is divided into two parts: the first presents the possibilities of using hypermedia resources in scientific journals; and the second shows the benefits of using video and the experiences of some magazines and publishing houses. The results and discussion sections were divided into three subsections. In the first subsection, the editorial characteristics of the journals are described, identifying the forms of signing to submit, access, publication process, databases where they are indexed, impact factor and editorial composition. In the second subsection, the number of articles published per year and distribution by topic area were addressed, and in the third subsection, the patterns and technologies used were identified. We consider that the use of video in scientific journals can contribute to improving scientific communication. Advantages that we highlight are: improving the description of dynamic and complex phenomena and procedures; greater visibility of the investigative work; reduction of time and money spent on experiments; and increasing the reproducibility of research capacity. Nonetheless, some important issues need more research.