Abstract
This article reports the results of a national survey designed to profile communication research centers affiliated with American universities. The study sought to document the number of centers, their organizational structures, staffing patterns, facilities, funding levels, research activities, and methodological orientations. Seventy six centers were identified through directories and institutional inquiries, and data were collected through a mailed questionnaire followed by telephone follow up. Forty centers completed the instrument. Findings indicate significant variation across centers, but the typical unit had operated for approximately thirteen years, was housed within an academic department, and maintained five dedicated rooms, limited staff support, and modest funding. Faculty participation was common, and graduate student involvement varied, often without formal assistantship support. Facilities frequently included one way observation rooms and access to computer resources, while laboratory equipment beyond audio and video systems was less common. Survey and experimental methods were the most frequently reported research approaches. The authors conclude that communication research centers play a central role in fostering scholarly activity but lack formal mechanisms for information sharing, suggesting the need for continued documentation and coordination to strengthen the field.
Recommended Citation
Sapolsky, Barry S. and Byrd, Nancy
(1986)
"A Survey of Communication Research Centers,"
Association for Communication Administration Bulletin: Vol. 55, Article 16.
Available at:
https://stars.library.ucf.edu/aca/vol55/iss1/16
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