The Journal of Communication and Journalism Research (CJR - ISSN: 2348-5663) was launched in 2012 and is published twice a year. Its primary focus is to present research findings and reviews that delve into the latest themes, theories, and issues in mass media and communication in South Asia, with a specific emphasis on India. In addition to publishing articles based on empirical research, we also include book reviews, conference reports, and case studies to meet the publishing needs of the communication academia in the region. Its publication process follows a multi-disciplinary approach, which aids in enhancing the understanding of research outputs in this field. The journal aims to challenge the traditional boundaries of the discipline by encouraging articles that question conventional frameworks and surpass domain-specific limitations.

CJR Timeline

• May 2012: Launched the first issue
• June 2014: Received ISSN : 2348-5663
• June 2014: Conferred University Grants Commission approved journal status
• January 2015: Introduced new design
• January 2019: Started online edition (www.cjrjournal.in)
• May 2023: Website is totally overhauled with new Content Management System

Vision Statement:

Our vision at the Journal of Communication and Journalism Research is to be a leading platform for cutting-edge research in communication and journalism. We aim to publish high-quality, innovative studies that address critical issues, explore emerging trends, and advance theory and practice in these fields.

Mission Statement:

The mission of the Journal of Communication and Journalism Research is to provide a multidisciplinary forum for researchers, scholars, and practitioners to share insights and findings in communication and journalism. We promote rigorous methodologies, diverse perspectives, and the exchange of ideas across different areas of study.

The Journal of Communication and Journalism Research aims to contribute significantly to the advancement of knowledge, innovation, and best practices in communication and journalism by upholding the following principles and objectives:

1. We seek to publish significant studies that advance knowledge in communication and journalism, including empirical research, theoretical frameworks, and methodological innovations.

2. We aim to facilitate collaboration and knowledge exchange among researchers from various disciplines, addressing complex societal challenges and developing holistic solutions.

3. We value diversity and inclusivity, publishing research that represents diverse perspectives, experiences, and voices, and providing an inclusive platform for scholars from different backgrounds.

4. We strive to disseminate research findings to a wide audience, including academics, practitioners, policymakers, and the general public, by offering open access publications.

5. We are committed to maintaining high editorial standards, ensuring the integrity and quality of published research, and providing constructive feedback to authors while upholding ethical guidelines.

Open Access Policy

The Journal of Communication and Journalism Research is committed to the principles of open access to scholarly research. We believe that unrestricted access to knowledge is essential for the advancement of the fields of communication and journalism. Therefore, we adopt the following open access policy:

1. All articles published in the Journal of Communication and Journalism Research are freely available to the public immediately upon publication. There are no subscription fees or paywalls, ensuring that research findings are accessible to researchers, practitioners, policymakers, and the general public worldwide.

2. To promote the widest possible dissemination and use of published articles, the Journal of Communication and Journalism Research applies a Creative Commons Attribution License (CC BY) to all published content. This license allows users to freely share, copy, distribute, transmit, and adapt the work, provided that proper attribution is given to the authors and the Journal.

3. Retain the copyright to their work published in the Journal of Communication and Journalism Research. This allows authors to further distribute, reuse, or republish their work without seeking permission from the journal, as long as proper attribution is given.

4. The journal supports the archiving and long-term preservation of published articles. We encourage authors to deposit their final accepted manuscripts in institutional or subject repositories to ensure the continued availability of their work.

5. The Journal of Communication and Journalism Research will take measures to enhance the discoverability of published articles. We will also try our best to index our content in prominent databases, search engines, and scholarly platforms to increase the visibility and impact of the research.

6. The open access policy of the journal is aligned with our commitment to maintaining ethical standards in scholarly publishing. All published articles undergo a rigorous peer-review process to ensure the quality and integrity of the research.

Ethical Guidelines

These ethical guidelines promote integrity, transparency, and accountability in research and publication. Authors, reviewers, and the editorial team must adhere to these principles to maintain high ethical standards in scholarly communication.

• Ensure originality and proper attribution. No plagiarism or self-plagiarism. Use proper citation and attribution.

• Accurately represent all significant contributors as authors. Communicate and agree on any changes to authorship.

• Conduct research with integrity. Provide transparent methodologies, data, and analysis for reproducibility. No data manipulation or fabrication.

• Disclose any conflicts of interest that may bias or compromise the research, including financial, personal, or professional relationships.

• Obtain informed consent from research participants. Protect their rights, privacy, and confidentiality. Handle personal information securely and in line with privacy laws.

• Review objectively, fairly, and promptly. Maintain confidentiality. Avoid personal biases or conflicts of interest.

• Ensure independent and impartial review and publication. Base editorial decisions on quality, relevance, and rigor, regardless of authors' backgrounds.

• Address errors, inaccuracies, or misconduct promptly. Issue corrections, retractions, or errata as needed to maintain integrity.

• Conduct research involving sensitive topics or vulnerable populations with sensitivity, respect, and consideration for well-being. Minimize harm and maximize benefits.

• Disclose conflicts of interest that could compromise objectivity. Recuse from review if personal or professional relationships influence judgment.

• Provide clear guidelines on submission, review, and publication. Transparent and accessible publication policies and procedures for authors, reviewers, and readers.

Peer Reviewer Instructions

Below are the instructions to guide those who are engaged in the peer review process:

1. Reviewing Process

• Manuscripts will be assigned to reviewers based on their expertise in the relevant field.
• The review process is double-blind, ensuring the anonymity of both the authors and reviewers.
• Reviewers are expected to provide constructive feedback, evaluate the research rigorously, and make recommendations for improvement.
• Reviews should be submitted within the specified timeframe to ensure timely publication.

2. Reviewer Responsibilities:

• Familiarize yourself with the aims and scope of the Journal of Communication and Journalism Research.
• Review manuscripts objectively, keeping in mind the importance of scientific integrity and ethical considerations.
• Maintain strict confidentiality regarding the content of the manuscripts you review.
• Evaluate the manuscript's originality, methodology, clarity, significance, and overall quality.
• Provide clear, constructive, and unbiased feedback to help authors improve their work.
• Indicate whether the manuscript meets the journal's standards and if it should be accepted, revised, or rejected.
• Identify any potential conflicts of interest that may influence your review and promptly notify the editor.

3. Reviewing Guidelines:

• Consider the structure, organization, and coherence of the manuscript.
• Evaluate the research design, methodology, and data analysis techniques employed.
• Assess the relevance and significance of the research question addressed.
• Determine the validity and reliability of the findings, including the appropriateness of statistical analyses.
• Evaluate the quality and comprehensibility of the writing, including grammar, clarity, and readability.
• Assess the accuracy and adequacy of citations, references, and supporting materials.
• Identify any ethical concerns, such as plagiarism or ethical treatment of human or animal subjects.

4. Reviewer Recommendations:

• Accept: The manuscript is of high quality and meets the journal's standards without requiring substantial revisions.
• Revise: The manuscript has potential but needs some revisions to address specific concerns or improve clarity.
• Reject: The manuscript does not meet the journal's standards, lacks originality, or has significant flaws that cannot be adequately addressed.

5. Reviewer Report Submission:

• Provide your review in a timely manner to ensure efficient manuscript processing.
• Utilize the provided review form or structure your feedback clearly and concisely.
• Offer specific comments and suggestions to help authors understand your recommendations.
• If applicable, provide detailed line-by-line or section-by-section comments to aid the authors in revising their work.
• Respectfully communicate your evaluations, maintaining a professional and constructive tone.

The Department of Journalism and Mass Communication (DJMC) at the University of Calicut holds the distinction of being the first teaching and research department for Mass Communication in Kerala, India. It provides a dynamic and technologically advanced environment for the study and research of mass communication and related fields. With a diverse curriculum encompassing print and electronic media, digital and data journalism, as well as film and culture studies, the department aims to enhance the human condition by fostering knowledge in communication studies and cultivating critical thinking.

In addition to imparting training in ever-evolving multimedia technologies and content creation techniques, the department's courses also foster a deeper comprehension of media and communication. This emphasis on understanding promotes critical media literacy and addresses ethical concerns in media operations. The Department has a vibrant research wing that offers PhD programmes in various subspecialties in Journalism and Mass Communication.

The University of Calicut (UoC), established in 1968, is a renowned institution for higher education and research in the Malabar region, Kerala, India. It strives for excellence in teaching and research, setting itself apart from others. UoC not only generates knowledge but also positively impacts lives, providing a stimulating environment that encourages creative thinking and respectful debates. With over four decades of outstanding performance, UoC offers students the best and most essential elements of academic life.

Situated amidst lush greenery on the outskirts of the historic city of Calicut, just 25 km away, the campus provides a serene atmosphere for its community. The campus design incorporates sustainable building technologies and utilizes the natural landscape, creating ample space for active engagement and quiet reflection. UoC boasts a highly qualified faculty dedicated to achieving academic excellence. UoC is a haven for researchers who aim to break barriers and contribute to knowledge creation as it offers abundant opportunities supported by state-of-the-art technologies and a fair and open environment. So far, in an array of rankings, the UoC has earned the status of an excellent institution, matching international standards, with remarkable achievements in both research and academics. Last year National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC), in India rated the University rated with A Plus.