Digital Commons Network^™

Situating Media Literacy With A Theory Of Change: “Mapping Jmle”, Julian Mcdougall

Journal of Media Literacy Education Pre-Prints

This article uses a theory of change to identify the difference media literacy work makes to people’s lives, based on work published in the Journal of Media Literacy Education in 2024. This is a pilot study stage towards a global field mapping, aiming to make the case for media literacy as an essential element in the health of the communication ecosystem (forthcoming, 2025).

This is an exploratory pilot sharing provisional evidence, but this is the point of the the broader work this article is a part of which seeks to is describe how media literacy can make a difference to …

9th Gsep Research Symposium - 2025

GSEP Research Symposium

The Ninth Annual GSEP Research Symposium, themed "Building Bridges to Elevate Humanity: Innovations and Insights in Education and Psychology", was hosted by the Pepperdine University Graduate School of Education and Psychology (GSEP) on June 19–20, 2025, at the historic Château d’Hauteville in Switzerland and virtually via Zoom.

This hybrid symposium convened a vibrant global community of students, alumni, faculty, and scholars to share research that addresses real-world challenges, advances scholarly inquiry, and builds pathways for inclusive collaboration and leadership. Spanning a wide array of topics—from artificial intelligence and mental health to trauma-informed practices, educational equity, social justice, and cross-cultural leadership—the …

Perceived Political Party Divide During The Pandemic: A Framework Linking Attitude Strength Toward Covid-19 Vaccines To Affective Polarization, Hyungjin Gill, Heysung Lee, Soo Yun Kim, Xining Liao, Hernando Rojas

Communication Faculty Publications

This study examines how perceived political party divide may foster affective polarization during the COVID-19 pandemic. Drawing on nationally representative sample surveys of U.S. and South Korean adults, we investigate the relationship between attitude strength toward COVID-19 vaccines, perceived polarization, and affective polarization. Results suggest that individuals with stronger attitudes toward vaccines are more likely to perceive a greater ideological divide between political parties, which in turn, is associated with increased animosity toward the opposing party. Applying the mediation model to the South Korean sample yielded consistent findings, suggesting that the mechanism by which strong attitudes relate to negative emotions …

Me, Myself, And The Influencer: Examining How Parasocial Interaction And Self-Congruence With Social Media Influencers Affects News Media Trust, Ben Wasike

Communication Faculty Publications

Social media influencers (SMIs) develop unique relationships with their followers, including high levels of trust and credibility. This study examined how these influencer–follower relationships affect news media trust with a focus on actual self-congruence, ideal self-congruence, parasocial interaction (PSI), and source and message credibility. Data showed that respectively, positive correlations exist between each of these variables and news media trust. However, ordinary least squares (OLS) regression only showed direct effects of actual self-congruence and PSI on trust, while message credibility had a negative effect. Structural equation modeling showed that actual self-congruence positively mediated the relationship between PSI and trust. Overall, …

Impact Of Social Media Use On Public Behavior Regarding Covid-19 Vaccination Refusal, Rismi Juliadi, Chininta Rizka Angelia, Aazelia Faramita

JURNAL KOMUNIKASI INDONESIA

This study explores the impact of social media use on the behavior related to the refusal of the COVID-19 vaccination. Social media has been one of the most widely used sources of information during the COVID-19 pandemic. It provides easy access to a wide range of content, including information about the COVID-19 vaccination campaign carried out by the Indonesian government. However, content shared via social media is vulnerable to disinformation, fake news, and hoaxes. The use of social media during the pandemic has had a significant impact on people's attitudes toward vaccination, with vaccine hesitancy often stemming from multiple factors. …

Promotion Of Religious Tourism In Pakistan Through Destination Marketing Strategies, Noor-Ul- Huda, Musa Khan, Noman Ahmed Ansari

International Journal of Religious Tourism and Pilgrimage

The aim of this study is to identify the key factors that attract religious tourists to Pakistan and the strategies that are effective in promoting religious tourism. The paper takes a comprehensive approach to guide Pakistan’s development by evaluating international literature, focusing on religious tourism as a pivotal source of revenue. The study explores diversification prospects, aiming to equip policymakers and tourism authorities with actionable insights. This research establishes the groundwork for realising the economic, social, and cultural potential of religious tourism in Pakistan by studying marketing techniques using a qualitative methodology, examining revival approaches, and investigating cutting-edge communication technologies. …

Evaluation Of Pre-Hajj Multimedia Training Tools: A Case Study Of Prospective Australian Pilgrims, Kholoud M. Munshi, Mustapha Taibi Dr., Kate Richards Ms., Khushnoor Khan Mr.

International Journal of Religious Tourism and Pilgrimage

Every year, millions of Muslim pilgrims gather in Makkah (Saudi Arabia) for Hajj. These pilgrims come from different parts of the world, with diverse language and cultural backgrounds. Managing such a large and diverse congregation for a successful completion of Hajj requires effective planning, which depends on two important antecedents—knowing the background information of the pilgrims and developing effective pre-Hajj training tools for dissemination of Hajj information for non-Arabic speaking pilgrims. This study evaluates the perceptions of potential Hajj pilgrims regarding community translation usability (CTX) and medium usability (MX) of two existing pre-Hajj media tools developed by Mnask Academy (Booklet …

The Current - Volume 36 Issue 3, Nova Southeastern University

Student Newspapers

No abstract provided.

The Cowl - V. 89 N. 3 - October 2, 2025

The Cowl

The Cowl - student newspaper of Providence College. Vol. 89 No. 3 - October 2, 2025. 20 pages.

Problematic Smartphone Use Experiences Of Students, Gbolahan Olasina

The African Journal of Information Systems

Smartphones extend people's opportunities by improving their daily living and well-being. Hence, given the tool’s features and affordances that promote human development, smartphones facilitate the achievement of the individual liberties and freedoms of ordinary people. However, there are serious concerns about the emotional, social and cultural factors underlying smartphone usage patterns and their association with problematic use and depressive behaviors. Therefore, the overriding goal of the research reported on in this paper was to investigate how smartphone use influences individuals’ emotional wellness, interpersonal relationships and sociocultural contexts. Existing academic literature indicated that there was a need to investigate the intricate …

It Just Means More: The Cultural Bond Between The South And Sec Football, Ryan Stinson

Senior Theses

With the success of programs like Vanderbilt and Georgia Tech in the early 1900s, college football quickly became means of establishing Southern superiority over the northern U.S. Their success continued into the 20th and 21st centuries with the creation and rise of the Southeastern Conference (SEC). During and prior to the existence of the SEC, rivalries, traditions, and pageantry developed and thrived in communities across the southeast. These aspects created a unique environment that drew in fans of college football across the region. This resulted in a unique bond between fan, university, team, and community that has thrived within all …

Nbc Peacock North Fall 2025 Newsletter, Peacock North Staff

NBC Peacock North Newsletter

Highlights include: Marilyn's Page--John Filippelli Receives NATAS Governors’ Award-- Dateline Marks 3,000th Show-- Sheinelle Jones Returns to Today Show-- Mike and Suzanne Noseworthy Celebrate Al Rice at 90-- A New Era Begins: Inside News 4 New York & Telemundo 47’s Brand New Newsroom-- Tributes to Silent Microphones: Lenny Basile, Bob Trumpy, Karen Sullivan, Carol Aerenson,--We Get Letters & Pictures

Code^Shift Newsletter Fall 2025, Srividya Ramasubramanian, Manaswini Pillai

CODE^SHIFT Research

No abstract provided.

Hedonic And Utilitarian Products For The 21st Century: Classification Of Modern Product Categories, Jin-A Choi, Sufyan M. Baksh, Hyuk Jun Cheong

College of Communication and Media Scholarship and Creative Works

Consumer purchasing behavior varies according to the type of product being considered. Notably, these behavioral differences become more salient depending on whether a product fulfills a utilitarian function or offers hedonic gratification. The present study aims to develop a novel product classification model that categorizes contemporary goods and services based on the extent to which they possess hedonic or utilitarian value. Methodologically, the study employed a two-stage approach. In the first stage, to identify appropriate products for inclusion in the classification model, the researchers conducted focus group interviews, a comprehensive literature review, and an analysis of major retailers’ websites. In …

Partisan Responses To Cancel Culture On Social Media: Hostile Media Effects On Political Behavior, Joon Soo Lim

Media Studies - All Scholarship

No abstract provided.

Hybrid Publishing And The Legacy Memoir: A New Model For Preservation, Julie Kanta

Book Publishing Final Research Papers

This research investigates the advantages and limitations of hybrid publishing models for legacy-focused memoirs that integrate written narratives with visual ephemera. As traditional publishers prioritize commercial viability and self-publishing platforms present technical challenges for complex projects, legacy memoir authors face unique obstacles in preserving personal histories with professional quality while maintaining creative control.

Through an analysis of industry standards, case studies of published legacy memoirs, and an examination of current publishing models, this study identifies how hybrid publishing can address the specialized needs of legacy memoir authors in ways that traditional and self-publishing models cannot fully accommodate. The research contributes …

The Lack Of Representation Of Black Women In The Sports Industry & Media, Rylan A. Harvey

Theses (2016-Present)

This thesis examines how Black women navigate and thrive within white, male- dominated sports media and industry spaces, utilizing the frameworks of Black Feminist Rhetoric and Co-Cultural Communication Theory. Using rhetorical and media discourse analysis of public figures, including Jemele Hill, Maria Taylor, Pam Oliver, Serena Williams, and Venus Williams, the study examines how Black women employ communicative strategies such as assimilation, accommodation, and separation, alongside rhetorical acts of voice, resistance, and representation, to navigate systemic inequities. These cases illustrate how language, credibility, and identity function as tools of survival and empowerment within institutions designed for exclusion. Findings reveal that …

A Measurement And Empirical Research On The Scientific Knowledge Demand Of Netizens On Social Media Platform, Rui Zhang, Wanyi Zuo, Wei Huang

Journal of Scientific Information Research

[Purpose/significance] Exploring the scientific knowledge demand of netizens on social media platform will prompt the dissemination and utilization of scientific knowledge, and it plays an important role in enhancement of the scientific literacy level of our general publics.

[Method/process] This paper constructed a measurement index system of netizens' scientific knowledge demand consists of demand breadth, demand strength and demand hierarchy, and adopted a comprehensive evaluation method based upon factor analysis and entropy method. 30 popular science WeChat accounts in different fields are measured and evaluated, and the comprehensive ranking of demand was calculated to explore and compare the demand differences …

Our Town Upland Campaign, Claire Yew

Public Relations Student Projects

This promotional campaign, developed by Taylor University’s 2025 PR Cases & Campaigns class in partnership with Our Town Upland, aims to enhance the visibility and vitality of Upland, Indiana. Grounded in research on the town’s history, demographics, and community culture, the campaign identifies key opportunities to strengthen local partnerships, increase visitor engagement, and deepen connections between Taylor University students and the broader community. The plan outlines strategic initiatives, including community events, business collaborations, internship programs, and targeted marketing efforts intended to attract visitors, increase event participation and elevate Upland’s profile. Through a combination of print and social media, and experiential …

Three Cheers For Print!, Jillian Lacross

AADEJ - The Communicator

This guest feature argues that print magazines are a worthwhile and necessary investment for associations, focusing on the three pillars of expectation, engagement, and experience. Print publications establish trust because they imply an inherent vetting process; affluent consumers trust print magazines the most, and print advertisements are significantly more trusted than social media ads. Print provides a respite from digital fatigue, with Worldmetrics finding that readers spend an average of 41 minutes engaging with a printed magazine, far exceeding the 3 to 7 minutes typically spent online. Printed materials enhance retention, recall, and emotional processing, strengthening the association's brand. Ultimately, …

Strategic Branding: The Critical Role Of Brand Strategy For Successful Branding Initiatives, Sara Virginia Abell

Senior Honors Theses

In the increasingly saturated world of branding, the ability to rise above the noise and establish meaningful connections with an audience is essential. This thesis explores the relationship between brand strategy development and successful branding outcomes. An initial review of relevant literature is conducted, focusing on the importance and creation of strategy. Further consideration is given to the unique challenges associated with rebranding efforts. The practical impact of brand and rebrand strategies is underscored through case studies across varying contexts. Following this, the implementation of strategy is discussed, with an emphasis on the role of design elements and principles in …

The Guardian The Month Of October 2025, Wright State Student Body

The Guardian Student Newspaper

News articles from The Guardian for the Month of October 2025. The Guardian is the official student-run newspaper for Wright State University. It has been published regularly since March of 1965.

Medst101 Contemporary Media, Fall 2025 Syllabus, Juan Monroy

Open Educational Resources

A survey of contemporary media industries including their technical, economic, social, political and cultural implications. We will also examine the economic underpinnings of media, the role of advertising and public relations, and the policies that govern contemporary media industries.

Lindenwood Digest, October 1, 2025, Lindenwood University

Lindenwood Digest

The Lindenwood Digest has been a digital employee newsletter since 2009.

Interest In “Pumpkin Spice” Simmers Down In 2025, Social Media Analysis Finds, Jin-A Choi, Yi Lou, Bond Benton

College of Communication and Media Scholarship and Creative Works

The ingredients of pumpkin spice may only be a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, allspice, and cloves, however it has transcended the sum of its parts to become a cultural touchstone and important part of fall product branding for companies. Its ubiquity arguably began in 2003 with the introduction of “Pumpkin Spice Latte” at Starbucks (Nosowitz, 2022). From simple lattes to more absurd pumpkin spice offerings (including deodorant and bathroom tissue), the world has entered its second decade of pumpkin spice being top of mind at the arrival of autumn. 2025, however, presents potential challenges associated with trend continuation. Immediately …

Topical Themes And Sentiment Analysis Of Social Media Posts Surrounding Book Bans During Banned Books Week 2024-2025, Jin-A Choi, Lauren Nicosia, Bond Benton, Yi Lou

College of Communication and Media Scholarship and Creative Works

Every year, the American Library Association (ALA sponsors “Banned Books Week” as an opportunity to celebrate free expression and open access to information. In articulating the importance of the event, the ALA states the following:

Banned Books Week was launched in 1982 in response to a sudden surge in the number of challenges to books in libraries, bookstores, and schools. Held in the last week of September or first week of October, the annual event highlights the value of free and open access to information and brings together the entire book community — librarians, educators, authors, publishers, booksellers, and readers …

Aadej Comm 11 3 2025

AADEJ - The Communicator

The Communicator is the Journal of the American Association of Dental Editors. It is published quarterly and distributed digitally via email to members and posted on the Association’s website aadej.org. This issue of The Communicator features articles focused on organizational strategy, publishing ethics, and critical issues in the profession. The Editor-in-Chief announces his intention to step down, reflecting on the organization's history. The President advocates for shifting the organizational focus from individual benefits to collective sustainability ("What’s in it for us?"). Organizational updates include the restructuring of the Publication Membership to allow three voting members for the same fee and …

Beyond Democracy: How A Free Press Supports The Rule Of Law, Erin C. Carroll

Georgetown Law Faculty Publications and Other Works

Widespread agreement has existed for centuries that a free press is essential to democracy. But legal scholars have spent almost no effort thinking about why else we might need a free press. This article attempts to widen the aperture. It argues that as the free press is essential to democracy, it is just as essential to a separate value: the rule of law.

Recognizing and investigating the connections between the free press and the rule of law is essential right now. It can help us discern how the press can create friction against the erosion of both rule of law …

Analyzing The Evolving Digital Public Dialogue On Juneteenth, Ky Nguyen, Quan Nguyen, Khusi Singh, Annie Tran

Annual Student Research Poster Session

This research explores how public conversations surrounding Juneteenth have evolved over time by analyzing 10,000 tweets. Through annotation of sentiment, emotion, and topics, the project provides insight into how Juneteenth is celebrated, debated, and understood across diverse cultural and political contexts. The resulting dataset lays the groundwork for a machine learning model capable of identifying large-scale patterns in language, tone, and narrative.

Literary Networks Everywhere: An Analysis Of Literary Connections Across Time And Culture, Rachel Riffel

Journal of the Symposium of University Research and Creative Expression

Project Mentor(s): Katharine Whitcomb

This paper explores the concept of literary discourse as a networked form, using Caroline Levine’s theory of “networks” as expansive systems of meaning. Through the poetry of several postmodern poets and their texts such as Terrance Hayes’ American Sonnets for My Past and Future Assassin, Anne Carson’s The Beauty of the Husband, and Maggie Nelson’s Bluets, this essay analyzes how contemporary poets use intertextuality, historical references, and classical forms not as rigid structures but as connective nodes in a broader literary web. These texts illustrate how poetry continues to participate in an evolving cultural and literary …