The Journal of Applied Communication Research publishes original scholarship that addresses or challenges the relation between theory and practice in understanding communication in applied contexts. All theoretical and methodological approaches are welcome, as are all contextual areas. Original research studies should apply existing theory and research to practical solutions, problems, and practices should illuminate how embodied activities inform and reform existing theory or should contribute to theory development. Research articles should offer critical summaries of theory or research and demonstrate ways in which the critique can be used to explain, improve or understand communication practices or process in a specific context. Commentaries on applied communication issues may also be submitted. Although manuscripts from a perspective and addressing any communicative situation are invited, particularly welcome are studies of how communication defines, reforms, alters and sheds light on contemporary social issues. All manuscripts must include a separate section detailing the intended or potential practical applications of the findings, critique or commentary.

In each issue beginning Autumn 2009, the editor will be including a manuscript by an established communication scholar wherein she or he synthesizes his or her program of research to offer practical applications.

The editor is also interested in receiving conceptual articles that propose applied research agendas developed from critical analyses of relevant literature. In this type of manuscript, authors should develop and present a coherent framework of propositions that can be empirically tested to advance our understanding of applied communication practice. Such articles must be comprehensive and original in analysis, grounded in extant theory and literature, and innovative in propositions and structure.

About the National Communication Association (NCA):

The National Communication Association is the world's largest professional association of scholars, educators, students and practitioners dedicated to studying and promoting effective and ethical communication. With more than 7,000 members representing every state in the U.S. and 25 other countries, NCA provides a wide variety of professional development opportunities, publishes and disseminates significant communication scholarship and advances the communication discipline through meaningful research, teaching, and service.

NCA provides:

• forums for professional interaction among members
• publishing outlets in NCA journals and special publications
• recognition of outstanding member achievements
• submit memberships based on common interests and concerns
• special projects to enhance effective and ethical communication in diverse communities and society at large
• opportunities for professional development and service
• a voice for the profession on timely issues affecting member and societal interests
• cooperative relationships with other disciplinary and interdisciplinary associations
• visibility for communication studies to a wide range of academic and public audience.