Abstract
This article examines the question of whether communication-related disciplines should be merged into free-standing schools or colleges. It argues that the wisdom of such mergers depends on institutional type, the history and strength of the units involved, and the degree of intellectual similarity among them. Large universities with dominant arts and sciences colleges may disadvantage communication units if they separate, while smaller or more balanced institutions may provide opportunities for equal resource distribution. Past histories of strong or weak departments also influence outcomes, as disparities in size or reputation can create dominance or instability. The discussion stresses that intellectual kinship among fields such as journalism, theatre, speech, and audiology is not automatic and requires ongoing effort to sustain. While mergers can yield strong, viable units, they are costly, time-consuming, and risky without careful consideration of institutional, historical, and disciplinary factors.
Recommended Citation
Bettinghouse, Erwin P.
(1987)
"Bringing Communication Scholars Together: Wise or Foolish?,"
Association for Communication Administration Bulletin: Vol. 61, Article 9.
Available at:
https://stars.library.ucf.edu/aca/vol61/iss1/9
