Journal of African Media Studies

Scope & Guideline

Illuminating the African Media Landscape.

Introduction

Welcome to the Journal of African Media Studies 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 Journal of African Media Studies, 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.
LanguageEnglish
ISSN2040-199x
PublisherINTELLECT LTD
Support Open AccessNo
CountryUnited Kingdom
TypeJournal
Convergefrom 2011 to 2024
AbbreviationJ AFR MEDIA STUD / J. Afr. Media Stud.
Frequency3 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
AddressTHE MILL, PARNALL RD, BRISTOL BS16 3JG, ENGLAND

Aims and Scopes

The Journal of African Media Studies primarily aims to foster a deeper understanding of media practices, representations, and their socio-political implications within the African context. It encompasses a wide range of topics that critically examine the role of media in shaping narratives, identities, and societal change across the continent.
  1. Media Representation and Identity:
    The journal explores how various media forms represent African identities and cultures, analyzing the impact of these representations on societal perceptions and self-identification within local and global contexts.
  2. Digital Media and Technology:
    A significant focus is on the influence of digital media technologies, including social media, on communication practices, audience engagement, and the re-negotiation of traditional media roles in the African landscape.
  3. Crisis Communication and Public Health:
    The journal addresses the role of media in public health communication, especially during crises such as pandemics, examining how information is disseminated and perceived by different audiences.
  4. Political Economy of Media:
    The journal investigates the intersection of media and politics, analyzing how media serves as a tool for political contestation, governance, and public engagement in various African nations.
  5. Cultural Production and Popular Media:
    It highlights the role of media in cultural production, particularly in music and film, and how these forms contribute to political discourse and social change.
  6. Gender and Media:
    The journal critically examines the portrayal and participation of gender in media, exploring issues of representation, empowerment, and the role of media in challenging gender norms.
The Journal of African Media Studies has demonstrated a dynamic evolution in its thematic focus, reflecting the changing realities and challenges faced by African societies. This section outlines the emerging themes that have gained traction in recent publications.
  1. COVID-19 and Media Responses:
    A substantial increase in publications addressing the media's role during the COVID-19 pandemic highlights its critical importance in crisis communication, public health messaging, and societal resilience.
  2. Youth Engagement and Social Media:
    Emerging themes around the engagement of young Africans with social media platforms, particularly in expressing identity, agency, and political participation, reflect a growing interest in youth narratives and digital activism.
  3. Climate Change Communication:
    Recent studies are increasingly focused on how African media addresses climate change, showcasing the importance of local narratives and discussions around environmental issues in the context of global discourse.
  4. Gender and Digital Media:
    There is a rising emphasis on gender dynamics within the digital media landscape, exploring how women use digital platforms for empowerment and activism, highlighting issues related to representation and gendered narratives.
  5. Humor and Political Discourse:
    The use of humor, particularly in the context of political commentary and public engagement during crises, is a notable trend, reflecting how humor serves as a coping mechanism and tool for critique in contemporary African societies.

Declining or Waning

While certain themes have been prominent in the Journal of African Media Studies, some areas appear to be declining in focus based on recent publications. This section highlights those areas that are receiving less attention in the current media discourse.
  1. Traditional Media Analysis:
    There seems to be a waning focus on traditional media forms, such as print journalism and conventional television, as the journal's recent publications increasingly emphasize digital platforms and new media technologies.
  2. Historical Media Studies:
    The exploration of historical contexts and their impact on contemporary media practices appears to be less prevalent, with a shift towards current events and immediate socio-political issues.
  3. Media Ethics and Regulation:
    Discussion around media ethics and regulatory frameworks has diminished, possibly overshadowed by more pressing themes related to crisis communication and digital media challenges.
  4. Local vs. Global Media Dynamics:
    While earlier publications examined the dichotomy between local and global media influences, recent articles have shifted towards a more integrated approach, possibly downplaying the distinct challenges faced by local media.
  5. Media Audience Research:
    Research focusing specifically on media audience behaviors and their reception of media messages has become less emphasized, with a more significant focus now on content analysis and media production.

Similar Journals

International Journal of Media & Cultural Politics

Engaging Scholars in the Politics of Culture
Publisher: INTELLECT LTDISSN: 1740-8296Frequency: 3 issues/year

The International Journal of Media & Cultural Politics, published by INTELLECT LTD, serves as a vital platform for scholarly discourse in the rapidly evolving fields of communication and cultural studies. With an ISSN of 1740-8296 and an E-ISSN of 2040-0918, this journal has established itself as a key resource since its inception in 2009, with significant contributions from 2013 to 2023. It is categorized within the Q3 quartile for Communication and Q2 for Cultural Studies, reflecting its commitment to high-quality research and its influential role in shaping contemporary discourse, evidenced by its Scopus rankings of #322 in Cultural Studies and #289 in Communication. Although not an open access journal, its comprehensive access options and rigorously peer-reviewed articles make it an essential read for researchers, professionals, and students seeking to understand the intricate intersections of media, politics, and culture in today’s society, fostering a deeper engagement with critical issues in these domains.

Media International Australia

Catalyzing Conversations on Cultural Narratives
Publisher: SAGE PUBLICATIONS LTDISSN: 1329-878XFrequency: 4 issues/year

Media International Australia is a leading journal that occupies a unique position at the intersection of communication and cultural studies. Published by SAGE Publications Ltd, this journal has established itself as a vital platform for scholarly discourse since its inception, now converging efforts from 2008 to 2024. With an impressive Q1 ranking in both the Communication and Cultural Studies categories, it ranks 12th out of 1304 in Cultural Studies and 42nd out of 511 in Communication, placing it within the 99th and 91st percentiles respectively according to Scopus metrics. The journal is committed to providing access to rigorous research that reflects contemporary issues in media, making it essential reading for researchers, professionals, and students keen on advancing their understanding of media's role in society. Despite not being fully Open Access, it ensures that quality research remains accessible through institutional subscriptions, allowing a broad audience to benefit from its insightful contributions.

Asian Journal of Communication

Cultivating Understanding Through Rigorous Scholarship
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 0129-2986Frequency: 6 issues/year

The Asian Journal of Communication, published by Routledge Journals, Taylor & Francis Ltd, is a premier scholarly platform dedicated to advancing the field of communication studies. Established in 1990 and continuing its impactful publication journey through 2024, this esteemed journal caters to a broad spectrum of interdisciplinary research, addressing critical issues in communication, media, and education in an Asian context. With an impressive impact factor and ranked in the top quartiles in both Communication (Q1) and Education (Q2), the journal is recognized for its rigorous peer-review process and its commitment to quality scholarship. Researchers, professionals, and students can access invaluable insights and innovative research trends, helping to bridge gaps and foster understanding across diverse communication practices. The journal is accessible through institutional subscriptions and promotes global discourse, making it an essential resource for anyone engaged in the vibrant field of communication.

JCMS-Journal of Cinema and Media Studies

Charting New Territories in Cinema Scholarship
Publisher: UNIV TEXAS PRESSISSN: 2578-4900Frequency: 4 issues/year

JCMS-Journal of Cinema and Media Studies, published by University of Texas Press, stands as a vital platform for scholars and practitioners in the realms of cinema, media, and visual arts. With an ISSN of 2578-4900 and an E-ISSN of 2578-4919, the journal has been a part of the academic landscape since its inception in 2018 and will continue to contribute valuable research until 2024. Notably ranked in the top tiers of Scopus, securing Q1 status in Visual Arts and Performing Arts and Q3 in Communication, JCMS features articles that critically engage with both traditional and contemporary issues in media studies. Located in the United States, the journal is committed to providing open access to a wide array of interdisciplinary research, fostering dialogue among researchers, students, and media professionals. By serving as a nexus for innovative scholarship and creative discourse, JCMS enriches our understanding of cinematic and media practices and their impact on society today.

Chinese Journal of Communication

Illuminating the Dynamics of Communication in China and Beyond
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 1754-4750Frequency: 4 issues/year

The Chinese Journal of Communication, published by Routledge Journals, Taylor & Francis Ltd, has established itself as a pivotal platform for scholarly discourse in the field of communication, particularly within the context of Chinese media and its global interactions. With a notable Q1 ranking in the 2023 Communication category and a commendable Scopus ranking of #77 out of 511 journals, it represents a significant contributor to the advancement of communication studies. The journal's focus extends from theoretical frameworks to empirical research, fostering a comprehensive understanding of the evolving communication landscape. Available in both print (ISSN: 1754-4750) and digital formats (E-ISSN: 1754-4769), the journal does not operate on an Open Access basis, yet it remains a highly sought-after resource for researchers, professionals, and students aiming to explore communication phenomena from a Chinese perspective. Given its publication history converging from 2010 to 2024, it serves as a valuable reference point for ongoing academic investigations and is instrumental in shaping future research directions in this dynamic field.

African Journalism Studies

Exploring the rich tapestry of African media practices.
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 2374-3670Frequency: 4 issues/year

African Journalism Studies is a leading journal dedicated to advancing the field of journalism research within the African context. Published by Routledge Journals, a prestigious division of Taylor & Francis Ltd, this journal features a rich repository of scholarly articles that explore critical issues in journalism, media practices, and communication strategies across the continent. With an impressive Q2 ranking in Communication for 2023, African Journalism Studies is recognized for its influence and quality, ranking #202 out of 511 journals in social sciences communication and maintaining a 60th percentile position. Despite being a non-open access publication, it remains essential for researchers, professionals, and students looking to deepen their understanding of the dynamics of journalism in Africa, offering insights into converged media practices from 2015 to 2024. The journal contributes significantly to the academic discourse, fostering a more profound knowledge base and encouraging informed discussions that reflect the evolving landscapes of African journalism.

Revista Comunicacao Midiatica

Advancing Research in Communication Studies
Publisher: UNIV ESTADUAL PAULISTA JULIO MESQUITA FILHO, FAC ARQUITETURA ARTES & COMUNISSN: 2236-8000Frequency: 3 issues/year

Revista Comunicação Midiática is a prominent academic journal focusing on the fields of communication, media studies, and cultural dynamics, published by Universidade Estadual Paulista Júlio Mesquita Filho, Facility of Architecture, Arts & Communication. With its ISSN 2236-8000, this journal aims to disseminate innovative research, theoretical advancements, and practical insights that contribute to a deeper understanding of communication processes in contemporary society. Although it currently does not provide Open Access options, the journal serves as a valuable resource for researchers, professionals, and students who are keen to explore the intricate relationships between media and culture. Located in Bauru, Brazil, the journal is committed to fostering multidisciplinary dialogue and enhancing scholarly discourse, making it an invaluable addition to the academic landscape in the realm of media studies.

JOURNAL OF POPULAR FILM AND TELEVISION

Unpacking Popular Media's Cultural Significance.
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 0195-6051Frequency: 4 issues/year

JOURNAL OF POPULAR FILM AND TELEVISION, published by Routledge Journals, Taylor & Francis Ltd, stands as a significant platform for academic discourse in the realms of cultural studies, visual arts, and performing arts. With its ISSN: 0195-6051 and an evolving digital presence indicated by its E-ISSN: 1930-6458, the journal has carved out a respected niche since its inception in 1978, continuing to contribute to scholarly discussions through 2024. Its impact within the academic community is underscored by a Q3 ranking in Cultural Studies and a Q2 ranking in Visual Arts and Performing Arts for 2023, highlighting its relevance across diverse fields. Notably, with a Scopus ranking placing it in the 74th percentile among visual arts and performing arts journals, it serves as an essential reference point for researchers, professionals, and students committed to the critical examination of film and television. Although not an open-access journal, it provides valuable insights and analysis that enrich understanding of popular media's impact on society. The journal's location in the United States, with a headquarters in Abingdon, England, further affirms its international scope and influence.

Television & New Media

Decoding the Cultural Impact of New Media Technologies
Publisher: SAGE PUBLICATIONS INCISSN: 1527-4764Frequency: 6 issues/year

Television & New Media is a leading academic journal dedicated to the exploration of the intricate relationships between television, new media technologies, and contemporary culture. Published by SAGE Publications Inc, this journal boasts an impressive impact factor, placing it in the prestigious Q1 category for both Cultural Studies and Visual Arts and Performing Arts as of 2023. Its high rankings in Scopus—#8 in Visual Arts and Performing Arts and #24 in Cultural Studies—underscore its significance in the academic community, reflecting its robust contribution to the discourse on media and culture. Spanning from 2000 to 2024, the journal features cutting-edge research that offers insights into the evolving dynamics of media and its societal implications, making it an essential resource for researchers, professionals, and students alike. Although currently not open access, the journal ensures that its contents are accessible through academic libraries, facilitating the dissemination of knowledge in an ever-changing digital landscape.

Convergence-The International Journal of Research into New Media Technologies

Illuminating the Intersection of Media and Technology
Publisher: SAGE PUBLICATIONS INCISSN: 1354-8565Frequency: 6 issues/year

Convergence - The International Journal of Research into New Media Technologies, published by SAGE Publications Inc., stands at the forefront of scholarly discourse in the dynamic field of new media technologies. With an impressive impact factor reflected in its prestigious Q1 quartile rankings in both Arts and Humanities (miscellaneous) and Communication categories, this journal serves as a vital resource for researchers, professionals, and students. Since its inception in 1995, Convergence has been dedicated to exploring the intersections of media, technology, and communication, offering original research, critical reviews, and theoretical discussions that illuminate the evolving digital landscape. With a commitment to high-quality scholarship, Convergence is positioned as a premier venue for pioneering studies that shape our understanding of media technologies and their cultural implications, making it an essential read for anyone eager to stay informed and engaged with contemporary media research.