Advocating for Journalism Studies’ Impact on Policymaking

Journalism has had difficulty to connect outside of the academy. Journalism Studies scholars are positioned with policy to connect disparate areas of knowledge and to forge connections that advance policymaking. In order to explore the issue, first, this chapter will explore the ways in which Journalism Studies have focused on policy issues. Second, it will advocate for the role of journalism researchers in policymaking, specifically on building on research focused on the brokerage of knowledge, meaning, translating research findings into policy and serving as key connectors who can bridge the gap between academic research and industry practice—and should take on this role more directly. And third, this chapter makes connections to broader epistemological conversations about the use of research evidence as a policymaking mechanism.