A great deal of research on journalism and the news and media industry is being undertaken by academics. However, most journalists have limited exposure to this work and few academics undertake their research directly with journalists. This has created a gap between the study of journalism and the practice of journalism. In the challenging economic climate for the media, the industry could certainly benefit from increased knowledge on how journalism should be practiced and produced today.

Bridging the divide between journalism research and practice requires understanding both fields’ unique challenges. Journalism research uncovers critical insights into news coverage. For example: how it can reinforce racial stereotypes, misrepresent facts on climate change, or build public trust through transparency. Research alone cannot solve these issues. However, it offers evidence-based support to news organizations, providing a better foundation than relying on tradition or instinct. The American Press Institute and Journalism Bridging Project’s new white paper, The Research-Practice Gap in Journalism, explores this issue in the U.S. and suggests strategies on how to bridge it.

Identifying barriers between researchers and media professionals

Academic findings rarely reach journalists in ways that encourage actionable change. This is largely because the priorities of academia and the news industry differ. This disconnect leads to tensions as journalists see researchers detached from newsroom realities. Academic journals do not typically prioritize practical applications. Findings are also often locked behind expensive paywalls, making them inaccessible to journalists.

The slow pace of academic publishing further complicates things, with research often needing to be updated by the time it becomes available. Despite these challenges, efforts are underway to bridge the gap. Some researchers are collaborating with newsrooms to help journalists adopt audience engagement strategies, and institutions like the Center for Media Engagement are working to make research publicly accessible.

Understanding the divide between journalism research and practice is key to addressing it. Both fields are committed to supporting democracy through a strong, independent press, but their incentive structures differ greatly. Newsrooms need research that addresses immediate challenges, such as rebuilding public trust or sustaining business models. Academia, meanwhile, values long-term exploration of theoretical issues, which can lead to research that feels disconnected from journalism’s day-to-day needs.

Bridging the gap between journalism research and journalists

Connecting journalism research with practice is a complex challenge, but conversations with journalists and academics reveal several strategies to address this divide. Some initiatives can be implemented more easily at the smaller end of the spectrum. For instance, better engagement between newsrooms and researchers could begin with simple outreach efforts. Journalists can inform scholars about their ongoing projects, and researchers can take the initiative to translate their findings into accessible, practical language for journalists.

The report suggests that conferences also provide a platform for bridging this gap. While journalists and researchers attend conferences, they often participate in different ones. Encouraging both groups to attend interdisciplinary events like South by Southwest or practitioner-focused gatherings like the Online News Association could foster meaningful connections. Panels that mix scholars and practitioners, as well as workshops and networking opportunities, offer fertile ground for collaboration.

Another key idea is producing different research outputs for different audiences. For example, the Center for Innovation and Sustainability in Local Media produces traditional research and more journalistic pieces highlighting real-world stories. This dual-output approach can help researchers make an impact more quickly, ensuring their findings are accessible to journalists before the news cycle moves on.

The academic connection to real world journalism

Solution-oriented research, such as case studies highlighting successful strategies used by news organizations, can also provide models for others to follow and inspire confidence in the practical application of academic work. The academic structure itself should encourage practical, real-world research. Tenure and promotion policies should reflect the value of public scholarship and engagement with newsrooms, focus more on practical implications, and make research sections, such as recommendations, open access to ensure they reach a wider audience.

Journalism education also plays a critical role. Journalism schools can better integrate research skills with practical training, helping students understand how to apply evidence-based insights to real-world reporting.

Funding is also essential to support initiatives like these. Independent funding allows researchers to prioritize mutual goals in their partnerships with newsrooms, while newsrooms receive compensation for the time they invest in collaborating with researchers.

Closing this divide requires better communication, stronger relationships, and more accessible research. Journalism support organizations, funders, universities, and newsrooms must work together to bridge the gap, improving the quality of journalism and supporting informed decision-making. With greater collaboration and shared commitment, journalism research and practice can overcome their divide, benefiting the news industry and the public it serves.