Open Access (OA) is a publishing model that makes research outputs, such as journal articles, books, and other academic works, freely available online to anyone with internet access. Unlike traditional publishing models where content is often behind a paywall or subscription service, Open Access allows for the unrestricted sharing and distribution of scholarly materials. This approach enhances the visibility, accessibility, and impact of research, facilitating global knowledge exchange. Open Access publications are typically licensed under Creative Commons licenses, which allow others to reuse, share, and adapt the content as long as proper credit is given to the original author(s).
The main goals of Open Access are to democratize access to academic knowledge, foster collaboration across disciplines, and promote the rapid dissemination of research findings to a global audience.
