The Open Research Contributor ID (ORCID) is a unique, alphanumeric identifier assigned to academic and scientific authors. Its primary function is to differentiate between authors who may share similar names, thereby simplifying the process of searching for their individual works.
In the realm of graduate studies, especially within the disciplines of theology, family, and human formation, the utility of an ORCID becomes particularly evident. It provides a platform for researchers to systematically track their scholarly output over time. This capability is crucial for researchers who wish to maintain an organized record of their work.
Further, an ORCID ensures that authors receive appropriate credit for their contributions to the field. In the often complex world of academia, where multiple authors may contribute to a single work, it is essential that each individual's role is recognized and acknowledged. The ORCID system facilitates this process, providing clarity and ensuring fair attribution.
Beyond these practical applications, the ORCID can also serve a more symbolic role. It can be harnessed as a tool to showcase one's academic excellence. By maintaining and updating an ORCID, researchers can build a comprehensive, public-facing portfolio of their scholarly contributions. This can be an invaluable resource when applying for grants, fellowships, or academic positions, as it provides a clear and unambiguous record of an individual's achievements.
In summary, maintaining an ORCID can serve multiple purposes within the academic world. From simplifying author searches to ensuring fair credit, from tracking research output to showcasing academic excellence, the ORCID is a multifunctional tool that can significantly enhance a researcher's visibility and recognition within their specialized field of study.
M.A. Graduate School (C-BAM video project)