Altmetrics : complexities , challenges and new forms of measuring and comprehending scientific communication

Objective. It aims to discuss some aspects of altmetria, an area commonly associated with metrics such as bibliometrics, scientometrics and webometrics, but with important differences in order to contribute to its own understanding, institutionalization and consolidation. Method. The article is a theoretical approach on the subject altmetria, being elaborated from a set of texts selected in international databases. The selected bibliography subsidized critical and reflexive analyzes on the subject. Results. The text brought reflections on the altmetria and its theoretical foundation, seeking to discuss the definition of the area, its relation with other metric studies of information and the complexities and challenges related to the production and use of altmetric indicators. Conclusions. The area has great potential, but it needs more reflection, in-depth analysis and discussion about its theoretical foundations. There are uncertainties related to the institutionalization of the area and controversies about the possibilities of the indicators to measure the "impact" of academic production.