The Status of Internet-Based Research in Five Leading Communication Journals, 1994–1999

Abstract

In light of recent calls to action regarding Internet research, this study examines the content, frequency, and pattern of published Internet-based research articles in five leading communication journals for the primary purpose of assessing how these journals have kept pace with the Internet's influence on the communication process. A content analysis of 961 articles reveals that less than 4 percent focused on the Internet during the examined six-year timeframe. However, the total number of Internet-related articles published per year appeared to increase over time. Several challenges faced by communication researchers and journals in positioning the Internet within the discipline are discussed.