Communicatio-South African Journal for Communication Theory and Research

Scope & Guideline

Cultivating a Community of Communication Scholars

Introduction

Welcome to the Communicatio-South African Journal for Communication Theory and Research information hub, where our guidelines provide a wealth of knowledge about the journal’s focus and academic contributions. This page includes an extensive look at the aims and scope of Communicatio-South African Journal for Communication Theory and Research, highlighting trending and emerging areas of study. We also examine declining topics to offer insight into academic interest shifts. Our curated list of highly cited topics and recent publications is part of our effort to guide scholars, using these guidelines to stay ahead in their research endeavors.
LanguageMulti-Language
ISSN0250-0167
PublisherROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTD
Support Open AccessNo
CountryUnited Kingdom
TypeJournal
Convergefrom 1975 to 1976, from 1978 to 2024
AbbreviationCOMMUNICAT-S AFR J C / Communicatio
Frequency4 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
Address2-4 PARK SQUARE, MILTON PARK, ABINGDON OX14 4RN, OXON, ENGLAND

Aims and Scopes

The journal "Communicatio-South African Journal for Communication Theory and Research" aims to advance the field of communication studies through critical analysis and innovative research. It focuses on various aspects of communication in the South African context and beyond, addressing the complexities of media, culture, and society.
  1. Critical Communication Studies:
    The journal emphasizes critical perspectives on communication, exploring how media and communication practices influence societal structures, identities, and power dynamics.
  2. Decolonization of Communication:
    A consistent focus on decolonizing communication theories and practices, reflecting on how Euro-American paradigms can be rethought and adapted within African contexts.
  3. Media and Development Communication:
    Research often centers on the role of media in development, particularly how communication can facilitate social change and empower marginalized communities.
  4. Political Communication:
    The journal examines the intersection of communication and politics, exploring themes such as media representation, public discourse, and the role of communication in political movements.
  5. Cultural Representation and Identity:
    A core area of study includes the representation of diverse cultures and identities in media, critically analyzing how these portrayals shape public perceptions and social realities.
  6. Digital Media and Social Change:
    The impact of digital media on communication practices, social movements, and individual agency is a key focus, highlighting the role of technology in contemporary communication landscapes.
Recent publications reflect a dynamic evolution in the journal's thematic focus, highlighting emerging trends that resonate with current societal issues and global developments.
  1. Social Media and Civic Engagement:
    An increasing number of studies explore the role of social media in facilitating civic engagement and activism, particularly in the context of political movements and social justice.
  2. Decolonial and Anti-Colonial Discourse:
    Emerging themes emphasize decolonial approaches to communication, challenging existing power structures and advocating for the voices of marginalized communities.
  3. Impact of COVID-19 on Communication Practices:
    Research examining the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on media consumption, communication strategies, and public discourse has surged, reflecting the pandemic's profound impact on society.
  4. Gender and Communication:
    There is a growing focus on gender representation in media and communication, analyzing how gender dynamics influence communication practices and societal narratives.
  5. Data Journalism and Ethical Challenges:
    Emerging discussions around data journalism highlight both its potential and ethical dilemmas, particularly in contexts marked by disinformation and political manipulation.

Declining or Waning

While the journal has strong areas of focus, certain themes appear to be less prominent in recent publications, indicating a potential shift in research priorities.
  1. Traditional Media Analysis:
    There seems to be a declining emphasis on traditional media forms such as print and broadcast, as newer studies increasingly focus on digital platforms and their implications for communication.
  2. HIV/AIDS Communication Strategies:
    Research specifically centered on HIV/AIDS communication appears to have decreased, suggesting a shift towards broader health communication topics rather than focused studies on this epidemic.
  3. Cross-National Comparative Studies:
    The journal has seen fewer comparative analyses of communication practices across different African nations, which may indicate a trend towards more localized studies.
  4. Historical Media Studies:
    There is a noticeable decline in research focusing on historical perspectives of media and communication within the African context, with more emphasis now placed on contemporary issues.

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