The 44rd Annual Media and Communication Conference provides a forum for scholars, students, professionals, and civic-minded leaders to explore topics with cultural, political, economic, and social implications, as well as communication dynamics.

Theme: AI-Powered Progress in Media Education, Enterprise and Innovation

This theme spotlights the transformative impact of artificial intelligence across the media and communication spectrum. This focus invites critical dialogue on how AI is redefining teaching methodologies, revolutionizing media business models, and driving innovation in content creation, distribution, and audience engagement. As media professionals and educators navigate this evolving landscape, the theme encourages exploration of ethical considerations, practical applications, and the future of human-AI collaboration. It challenges participants to rethink traditional frameworks and embrace AI as a catalyst for progress, creativity, and equity in the global communication ecosystem.

Roundtable proposals may consist of a chair, individual paper presenters or discussants, and a critic/respondent. Round-table discussions, projects-in-progress, debates, or other unique formats are welcomed. In alternative program formats, respondents may be included or omitted as appropriate. Submit a program proposal in one (1) single attachment that reflects the following information:

  1. The thematic title of the round-table.
  2. A 500-word rationale for the program as a whole.
  3. Names, affiliations, and e-mail addresses of all participants.
  4. An abstract of 50-75 words that identifies the content and purpose of the panel, which would be printed in the conférence program book if accepted.
  5. Request for audio-visual technology, if necessary. Please note: audio-visual equipment is extremely limited and expensive. Therefore, be judicious in requesting technology only if essential for a successful
  6. Submitters bear the responsibility of entering all panelists’ information into the submission form.

Competitive Paper Submission Requirements:

  • Title of the paper with names, affiliations, and e-mail addresses of all authors.
  • Abstract: 100-250 words.
  • Papers may use any method or theory to discuss or present data and findings.

Essays should be a maximum of 40 pages typed and double-spaced with 1inch margins. The essay length is inclusive of citations, footnotes, images, and tables.

Poster Session Submission Requirements:

Proposals should include the following:

  • Title of the poster
  • Poster rationale: 100-250 words of the poster and project, including its purpose and how it may relate to the conference theme. Because posters are a visual and interactive medium, please provide some information about how it will convey information visually and/or how you will engage visitors.
  • An abstract of 50-75 words that identifies the content and purpose of the panel, which would be printed in the conférence program book if accepted.
  • Names, affiliations, and e-mail addresses of all participants;

Poster Requirements:

Posters should be eye-catching, visual representations of a topic. An effective poster presentation highlights, with a visual display, the main points or components of a project. Text and images should be large enough to be seen from a distance of several feet. The exact size and technical specifications will be distributed when presenters are informed of their acceptance. Digital, multimedia displays, and printed posters are welcome. Electricity and internet access will be available.

Additional Notes:

  • A maximum of four presenters per poster is allowed. Presenters should prepare short summaries of the project and be prepared to answer questions.
  • Each poster will be assigned a space within an exhibit hall where presenters will display and discuss their presentation.
  • Presenters should bring their own laptops and their own supplies, including pins, tacks, or other material to mount their displays on the display board provided, or have their displays already mounted on their own poster board which they can display on the tabletop.
  • Presenters are also encouraged to bring handouts or other supplementary materials for attendees who request additional information, as well as business cards.

PROCESS AND DEADLINE: ALL Submissions must be made online through the CommWeek Website Submission Form. Papers and Program Proposals must be received NO LATER THAN 11:59 P.M. CST on Sunday, December 14, 2025, to receive full consideration.

For questions or concerns about the submission process, please contact the program planner, Anthony Obi Ogbo, Ph.D., at anthony.ogbo @tsu.edu

Suggested Topics for Submission

Below are selected topics; however, presenters can submit other subjects as long as they are related to either the conference theme or the discipline of communication.

  • AI in Investigative Journalism: Tools for Faster, Deeper Research
  • Combatting Misinformation: Can AI Fact-Check Better Than Humans?
  • The Role of Generative AI in Newsroom Content Creation
  • Bias in AI: How Algorithms Influence News Selection
  • Redefining News Writing: AI Co-Writers and Editorial Integrity
  • Data Journalism and AI: Visualizing Complex Stories with Intelligence
  • AI and the Future of Local Journalism: A Threat or Lifeline?
  • Ethics of Automation in Newsrooms: Job Loss or Job Evolution?
  • AI-Powered Translation: Making Global News Truly Global
  • Personalized News Feeds: Algorithmic Control and Democratic Impacts

___________

  • AI in Scriptwriting: Creativity vs. Code
  • Voice Cloning and Deepfakes: The New Frontier in Broadcasting Ethics
  • Streaming Wars 2.0: How AI Personalization Fuels Viewer Retention
  • AI as a Co-Director: Filmmaking with Predictive Visual Tools
  • Reimagining Documentaries with AI-Enhanced Archival Retrieval
  • Smart Cameras and Automated Broadcasting in Live Events
  • Film Restoration and Preservation Using AI Technology

__________

  • AI and Human Communication: Enhancing or Eroding Connection?
  • Algorithmic Influence in Public Discourse and Opinion Shaping
  • AI, Identity, and Representation in Digital Communication
  • Machine-Mediated Messaging: Implications for Interpersonal Communication
  • AI-Powered Persuasion: Rhetorical Challenges in Digital Marketing
  • Cross-Cultural Communication in the Age of AI Translation

___________

  • AI-Generated Music: Creativity or Commercialization?
  • Predictive Algorithms and Hit-Making: Music Production in the AI Age
  • Rights, Royalties, and Robots: AI and Intellectual Property Challenges
  • AI in Music Distribution: Playlist Placement and Algorithmic Curation
  • Smart Contracts and Blockchain in Artist Management
  • AI and Fan Engagement: Customizing Experiences with Data
  • Deep Learning in Audio Restoration and Remastering
  • Virtual Performers and AI-Enhanced Live Shows
  • Branding in the AI Era: Virtual Influencers and Music Marketing
  • Data-Driven A&R: Scouting Talent Through Machine Learning