SOUTH AFRICAN JOURNAL OF COMMUNICATION DISORDERS

Scope & Guideline

Empowering Voices Through Research and Collaboration

Introduction

Welcome to the SOUTH AFRICAN JOURNAL OF COMMUNICATION DISORDERS 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 SOUTH AFRICAN JOURNAL OF COMMUNICATION DISORDERS, 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
ISSN0379-8046
PublisherAOSIS
Support Open AccessYes
CountrySouth Africa
TypeJournal
Convergefrom 1977 to 2024
AbbreviationS AFR J COMMUN DISOR / S. Afr. J. Commun. Disord.
Frequency1 issue/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
AddressPostnet Suite 110, Private Bag x 19, Durbanville 7550, SOUTH AFRICA

Aims and Scopes

The South African Journal of Communication Disorders primarily aims to advance the understanding and treatment of communication disorders through research, education, and practice-based insights. The journal focuses on a variety of themes relevant to audiology and speech-language pathology, with a strong emphasis on local context and cultural considerations.
  1. Research in Communication Disorders:
    The journal publishes original research related to various communication disorders, including speech, language, swallowing, and hearing impairments, emphasizing evidence-based practices and innovative treatment methodologies.
  2. Professional Development and Quality of Life:
    There is a consistent focus on the professional quality of life for speech-language therapists and audiologists, exploring barriers to professional development and the implications for service delivery.
  3. Cultural and Linguistic Contexts:
    The journal recognizes the importance of cultural and linguistic factors in communication disorders, showcasing research that is linguistically and culturally congruent, particularly within the South African context.
  4. Community and Caregiver Perspectives:
    Research often highlights the experiences and challenges faced by caregivers and communities, providing insights into the role of family and social support in managing communication disorders.
  5. Innovative Service Delivery Models:
    The journal explores new models of service delivery, including telehealth and community-based interventions, particularly in resource-constrained settings.
The South African Journal of Communication Disorders has identified several emerging themes that reflect current trends in the field. These themes are indicative of evolving practices, increased research interest, and changing societal needs regarding communication disorders.
  1. Telehealth and Remote Service Delivery:
    The rise of telehealth, especially in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, has led to a significant increase in research focused on teletherapy and remote diagnostics, showcasing the adaptability of practitioners and the need for accessible services.
  2. Quality of Life and Patient-Centered Care:
    There is a growing interest in understanding the quality of life impacts of communication disorders on individuals and their families, emphasizing the need for holistic approaches in treatment and support.
  3. Intervention Programs for Vulnerable Populations:
    Emerging themes include targeted intervention programs for vulnerable populations, such as children with autism or preterm infants, indicating a shift towards more inclusive and equitable healthcare practices.
  4. Cultural Competence in Communication Disorders:
    Research increasingly emphasizes the importance of cultural competence in speech-language pathology and audiology, with studies focusing on culturally adapted interventions and the experiences of diverse populations.
  5. Impact of Technology on Communication Disorders:
    There is an upward trend in exploring the impact of technology, including assistive devices and applications, on communication disorders, highlighting the integration of modern technology into therapeutic practices.

Declining or Waning

While the journal continues to thrive in many areas, certain themes have begun to show a decline in focus or publication frequency. This may reflect shifting priorities in the field or changes in societal needs.
  1. Traditional Diagnostic Methods:
    There appears to be a waning focus on traditional diagnostic methods in favor of more innovative approaches, such as tele-diagnostics and community assessments, reflecting a shift towards modern and accessible healthcare solutions.
  2. General Audiometric Research:
    Research strictly centered on general audiometric testing is less frequently published, as the journal increasingly prioritizes studies that integrate audiometry with broader clinical contexts and patient-centered outcomes.
  3. Non-Clinical Research Themes:
    There has been a noticeable decrease in the publication of non-clinical research themes, such as purely theoretical explorations without direct application to practice, as the journal emphasizes more practical and immediate applications of research findings.

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