Developing the Language of Open Science: Introducing an Arabic Glossary

We’re thrilled to announce the completion and publication of the groundbreaking Arabic glossary that was meticulously curated through comprehensive research and is the result of the collaborative efforts of numerous experts from the Arab region. This project was launched by the Forum for Open Research in MENA (FORM), an independent initiative of the Knowledge E Foundation. F.O.R.M. aims to support the advancement of Open Science policies and practices across the Arab region by providing actionable insights and practical guidance relating to the development and implementation of Open Science policies and practises in research communities and research institutions.

Born out of an immediate need to develop accurate language through which a more thorough understanding of Open Science can be achieved, the glossary will contribute to the evolution of this scholarly discourse in the Arab region. Therefore, FORM established a working group, comprised of experts from across the Arab region, to reach a consensus on appropriate terms, and develop a free glossary for the whole community.

The profoundly nuanced nature of the Arabic language is not lost on us. While we acknowledge that certain terms may be deemed subjective, our exhaustive efforts have been dedicated to ensuring that the terminology employed remains highly technical and precise, and we are optimistic that this glossary will serve as a valuable launchpad for Open Science discussions, practises, and publications.

Access other F.O.R.M. resources created specifically for the Arab region.

We are particularly excited that the glossary is already being used across the world by Open Science advocates and not-for-profits to ensure their resources and guidance materials are now accessible to all Arab-speaking users. As we celebrate this success, we are committed to expanding and updating the glossary to ensure it covers any evolving terminologies and takes into account any developments within the dynamic field of Open Science.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the experts who have contributed their time, energy, and valuable insights to this glossary and urge researchers, educators, publishers and other Open Science advocates in the Arab world to utilise this resource and support its expansion and development by sharing their suggestions. For enquiries, submissions, or suggestions, please reach out to us by email at contact@forumforopen.org.

Access or Download the Open Science Arabic-English Glossary
published under a CCBY license (DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.10000577)