Expanding the Scope of Instructional Communication Research: Looking Beyond Classroom Contexts

Abstract

The bulk of instructional communication research to date examines communication among teachers and students in conventional classroom contexts. Although past and present research is prolific and informative, it is also somewhat limiting. With a specific unifying focus on affective, cognitive, and behavioral learning as outcome variables, we begin this article with a brief history of instructional communication research, as well as examples of research and practice in conventional classroom settings. We then outline, review, and explain four distinct contexts where we believe future instructional communication research and practice is likely to be fruitful: risk and crisis situations, technology-enhanced environments, digital games, and forensics education.

Keywords:

• Cognition
• Forensics Education
• Instructional Communication
• Learning
• Risk and Crisis
• Technology and Digital Games

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Deanna D. Sellnow

Deanna D. Sellnow (PhD, University of North Dakota) is the Gifford Blyton Endowed Professor of Communication and Assistant Provost for Transformative Learning, University of Kentucky.

Anthony Limperos

Anthony Limperos (PhD, Penn State University) is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Communication at the University of Kentucky.

Brandi N. Frisby

Brandi N. Frisby (PhD, West Virginia University) is an Associate Professor in Instructional Communication and Research at the University of Kentucky.

Timothy L. Sellnow

Timothy L. Sellnow (PhD, Wayne State University) is a Professor in the School of Information Science at the University of Kentucky.

Patric R. Spence

Patric R. Spence (PhD, Wayne State University) is an Associate Professor in the School of Information Science, and Instructional Communication & Research at the University of Kentucky.

Edward Downs

Edward Downs (PhD, Pennsylvania State University) is an Associate Professor in the Department of Communication at the University of Minnesota Duluth.