Volume 8, Issue 1

2024-05-30

The latest issue of the Journal of Public Interest Communications, Volume 8, Issue 1 blends academic research with practical insights. This edition explores the powerful impact that technology and storytelling can have on communities regardless of location, population size or issues faced.

As public interest communicators navigate the complex and rapidly evolving landscape of social media, technology and AI, the insights in this issue offer examples of how ethical, community-based communication continues to affect change and build more inclusive communities. 

The latest issue includes the following articles:

Editors’ Essay by Joseph Radice, Kelly Chernin and Cody Hays

  • Offers an overview of included research with commentary on relevance and importance to the field of public interest communications

“Technology Learning and Justice-Impacted Communities” by Annalise Baines, Hannah Britton, Hyunjin Seo and Darcey Altschwager

  • Examines technology adoption and digital literacy in women transitioning from incarceration
  • Evaluates the impact of targeted, community-centered communication strategies on marginalized populations

“Local Governments Leverage Selfie Culture with #CityHallSelfie Campaign” by Sarah K. Maben and Cristi C. Horton

  • Explores how local employees and residents can build connections through an engaging campaign
  • Offers insight into how public interest communicators can leverage digital platforms for community involvement

“Puppets, Vaccines, and Public Health: Harnessing Theater to Combat Misinformation in Albania” by Elira Canga

  • Explores how creative arts (like puppetry) can be used to convey critical health messages, particularly young audiences
  • Offers valuable guidance for communicators seeking to develop innovative strategies for advancing public health goals

“A Place at the Table: A Communication Model for Addressing Food Insecurity” by Maggie Kane

  • Highlights a Raleigh, NC nonprofit with a pay-what-you-can model cafe that is addressing local food insecurity
  • Examines the power of fostering a sense of community and dignity to build a more equitable community at the grassroots level

 

The research in this issue exemplifies the power of returning to fundamentals of communications: empathy and authenticity. The positive results of communication strategies with diverse variables  –  from adults who are re-entering society after incarceration in the United States to using puppetry to instill trust and connection in children in Albania – serve as a reminder that storytelling can be transformative even in a rapidly changing society. Access thought-provoking insights and original research in Volume 8, Issue 1 at www.journalpic.org.