In communication research, what is often the main goal?

In communication research, the primary goal is to answer questions and draw conclusions. This process involves systematically gathering and analyzing data to understand various communication phenomena, which may include interpersonal interactions, media effects, and organizational communication, among others. By answering specific research questions, scholars and practitioners can contribute to the theoretical body of knowledge, assess the effectiveness of communication strategies, and influence practical applications in the field.

Focusing on answering questions encourages a rigorous inquiry that relies on empirical evidence, thus allowing researchers to make informed conclusions based on their findings. This also helps in identifying gaps in existing literature and proposing new areas for further study, which contributes to the overall advancement of communication research.

In contrast, confirming existing opinions may lead to bias and limit the exploration of new ideas. Fostering debate can be a valuable aspect of the research process but is typically not the end goal; rather, it can be a means to evaluate different perspectives. Promoting personal narratives, while important in understanding individual experiences, is more subjective and may not adhere to the systematic methodologies that characterize formal research efforts.