Intervention orientations in communication research

ABSTRACT The importance of intervention in communication research has continued to expand in a variety of research traditions including applied communication, engaged scholarship, and communication activism. The growing importance of intervention requires closely examining our research practices regarding knowledge production and the role of nonacademic research partners. The present study articulates four intervention orientations based on an analysis of articles (n = 154) from 2010 to 2020, drawn from journals published by the U.S.-based Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication, International Communication Association, and National Communication Association. Four orientations are articulated using the dimensions of problem focus and intervention pathway: (1) translation, (2) critique, (3) design, and (4) co-creation. Implications regarding temporality and intervention, the significance of interdisciplinary research, and the sustainable social impact of interventions are highlighted.