Ensuring Communication Research Makes a Difference

Abstract

Rephrasing the forum question to “How can we ensure communication research has a positive effect on communication practice?” focuses on the present, points to a specific purpose for communication research, emphasizes the scope and type of difference to be made, and places accountability and responsibility on researchers. In general, the public has not found the expertise of communication scholars. The essay addresses ways to overcome this research to practice dilemma: establishing a common framework, complementing the top-down research approach with a practice-driven, bottom-up approach, and adjusting research and practice assumptions.

Keywords:

• Communication Practice
• Communication Research
• Translating Research
• Communication Axioms

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Joann Keyton

Joann Keyton is a Professor of Communication at North Carolina State University

Stephenson J. Beck

Stephenson J. Beck is an Assistant Professor of Communication at North Dakota State University

Amber S. Messersmith

Amber S. Messersmith is an Assistant Professor of Communication Studies at James Madison University

Ryan S. Bisel

Ryan S. Bisel is an Assistant Professor of Communication at the University of Oklahoma