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Exploring the Knowledge Gap Theory of Communication: Impacts and Implications

Ernest Powell

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The knowledge gap theory of communication is a theory that suggests that there is a gap in knowledge between different socioeconomic groups. This gap is said to be caused by a number of factors, including differences in education, income, and access to information. The theory argues that this gap can have a number of negative consequences, including social inequality and political polarization.

The knowledge gap theory of communication

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Origins of the Knowledge Gap Theory

The knowledge gap theory was first proposed by Tichenor, Donohue, and Olien in 1970. They argued that the gap in knowledge between different socioeconomic groups was due to a number of factors, including differences in education, income, and access to information. They found that people with higher levels of education and income were more likely to be aware of and understand important news and public affairs issues than people with lower levels of education and income.

Since its inception, the knowledge gap theory has been the subject of a great deal of research. Some studies have supported the theory, while others have found that the gap is not as large as Tichenor, Donohue, and Olien originally suggested. However, the theory remains a valuable framework for understanding the relationship between social inequality and access to information.

Impacts of the Knowledge Gap

The knowledge gap can have a number of negative consequences for society. One consequence is social inequality. People with higher levels of knowledge are more likely to be successful in school, work, and other areas of life. They are also more likely to be involved in civic activities and to have a say in the decisions that affect their lives.

Another consequence of the knowledge gap is political polarization. People with different levels of knowledge are more likely to have different political views. This can lead to a lack of understanding and empathy between different groups of people. It can also make it difficult to find common ground and solve problems.

Implications of the Knowledge Gap

The knowledge gap has a number of implications for communication professionals. One implication is that it is important to tailor messages to different audiences. Messages that are too complex or technical may not be understood by people with lower levels of knowledge. It is also important to use a variety of communication channels to reach different audiences. Some people may get their news from traditional media outlets, while others may get it from social media or online sources.

Another implication is that it is important to promote media literacy. Media literacy is the ability to understand and evaluate media messages. It helps people to be more critical of the information they consume and to make informed decisions about what to believe. Communication professionals can help to promote media literacy by providing resources and opportunities for people to learn about the media.

The knowledge gap theory of communication is a valuable framework for understanding the relationship between social inequality and access to information. It provides a number of insights into the challenges of communicating with different audiences. By understanding the knowledge gap, communication professionals can develop more effective strategies for reaching and engaging all members of society.

References

Tichenor, P. J., Donohue, G. A., & Olien, C. N. (1970). Mass media flow and differential growth in knowledge. Public Opinion Quarterly, 34(2),199-206.
Viswanath, K., & Finnegan, M. (2012). The knowledge gap: A review of research and theory. Communication Theory, 22(3),248-269.
Schultz, W. (2019). The knowledge gap: Where it comes from and what it means. The Conversation. https://theconversation.com/the-knowledge-gap-where-it-comes-from-and-what-it-means-112054

The knowledge gap theory of communication

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