Did you know that Iowa is FAMOUS in the field of Communication? “Academic Famous” has a lot to do with theory and research.

Iowa = Communication Famous

Wilbur Schramm

Our boy Wilbur is the OG. Wilbur Schramm was a big deal in communication studies and had strong ties to the University of Iowa. He got his Ph.D. in American literature here in 1932 and Schramm taught English here from 1934 to 1941.

While he was here, he co-founded the Iowa Writers’ Workshop in 1935 with Norman Foerster. This program turned into one of the top creative writing programs in the country. Schramm’s time at the University of Iowa set the stage for his later work in mass communication.

My husband is particularly taken with the idea of the “quasselstrippe.” Kurt Lewin’s “Quasselstrippe” sessions, which he conducted in Berlin, were indeed innovative for their time. The term “Quasselstrippe” captures the essence of these sessions, where participants were encouraged to “ramble on” and freely share their thoughts. This approach is very similar to what we now call “knowledge cafés,” where open dialogue and the exchange of ideas are central.

Wilbur Schramm’s Contributions to Communication Studies

Wilbur Schramm is widely recognized as a founder of communication studies, playing a crucial role in establishing the field as a distinct academic discipline. His impact extends beyond simply acknowledging different forms of communication; he actively integrated them to foster a richer understanding of the communication process. Here are some key aspects of his contributions:

• Founding of Academic Programs: Schramm established the first academic programs in communication that granted degrees, solidifying the field’s academic standing. He founded the Institute of Communications Research at the University of Illinois in 1947 and a similar institute at Stanford University in 1955.
• Bridging Communication Disciplines: Schramm’s research went beyond focusing on a single aspect of communication. He recognized the interconnected nature of mass media, interpersonal communication, and information theory, examining them together to provide a comprehensive view of communication flow and its impact. This integrative approach is central to his contributions to the field.
• Pioneering Research and Theory: His work laid the foundation for modern communication theory. He integrated various aspects of communication, including mass media, interpersonal communication, and information theory. Schramm’s background in American literature, particularly his involvement in co-founding the prestigious Iowa Writers’ Workshop in 1935, likely influenced his approach to communication studies. This interdisciplinary perspective allowed him to connect ideas from different fields, leading to a richer understanding of communication.
• Practical Applications of Communication: Schramm emphasized the practical implications of communication research, likely influenced by Kurt Lewin’s work. This focus on real-world application is evident in his exploration of how communication could be used for social good in areas like development communication and educational media.
• Development Communication: Schramm was a pioneer in development communication. He explored how communication could be used to promote social development. His work in this area has had a lasting impact on communication strategies in educational and developmental contexts. He was also influential in promoting the use of mass media for educational purposes, contributing significantly to the development of educational and instructional technology.
• Influential Publications: Schramm authored several influential books and articles that further cemented his legacy in communication studies. These include:
  • “Mass Communications” (1949)
  • “Process and Effects of Mass Communication” (1954)
  • “The Story of Human Communication: Cave Painting to the Microchip” (1987)

The sources also recommend further readings for a deeper understanding of Schramm’s work:

• “Wilbur Schramm, 1907–1987: Roots of the Past, Seeds of the Present,” by Emile G. McAnany in the Journal of Communication
• “Wilbur Schramm – Communication” in Oxford Bibliographies
• “Contributions of Wilbur Schramm to Mass Communication” available through ERIC

In summary, Schramm’s contributions to integrating various aspects of communication were foundational in shaping communication studies into a recognized academic discipline. His emphasis on the interconnectedness of different communication forms, the practical implications of research, and the value of an interdisciplinary approach continues to shape the field today.

https://youtu.be/Tmv7B2uSG4w

And finally, a shout out to…

Everett M. Rogers

Ok, ok, Rogers is IOWA (the state of) famous not specifically University of Iowa famous. In fact, he’s kiiind of, maybe, just a lil’ bit…Iowa State Famous. I know, I know, eww state but he is an Iowa guy and he wrote one of my favorite theories. I just hope it’s not Hate Week when you’re reading this.

Coming soon….

NCA Presidents