Crossing the river Gap: How research and practice can build a better journalism together

Abstract

This commentary examines the relationship between the journalism profession and academia, making the case for further bridging the gap between the two fields to foster better collaboration and mutual understanding. We begin by highlighting the similarities and differences between these domains and use the metaphor of two riverbanks in need of connection. We argue that some bridges already exist—each serving different purposes — but all aim to address the same divide. We then explore examples of these connections and argue that improving the circulation of ideas and knowledge between the two fields requires more than building bridges. It also involves strengthening the internal infrastructure on both sides to ensure smooth traffic once ideas have crossed the river. Based on our experience working at this intersection, we suggest that progress often depends less on creating entirely new initiatives and more on fostering reciprocal understanding, clarifying assumptions, and restating shared premises to avoid misunderstandings and misalignments.