FLAGSHIP PROGRAMMES
National Network
Czech Republic
Address
Univerzitní street 2, Olomouc 779 00, Czech RepublicCountry
Czech RepublicCity
OlomoucMobile Phone
+420721009422Telephone
+420 585 637 176E-Mail (2)
jaroslav.franc.cz@gmail.comWebsite
Click HereYear of Establishment
2019Contact Person1
Jaroslav FrancJob Title 1
Head of the departmentContact Person 2
Andrea ŠpičkováJob Title 2
SecretaryOrganisation Type
Public InstitutionFields of Activity
International/Cultural relations, Media, Religion, ResearchGeneral Information
The Department of Communication Studies is part of Palacký University, a public university in the Czech Republic. The department consists of 9 permanent members and a number of external collaborators.
The department is funded from the public budget of the Czech Republic and also receives financial support from various grants and public sources.
The department guarantees teaching in media communication and crisis communication. In addition, it engages in project-based and other educational activities such as organizing and leading the CEEPUS Media Ethics network, implements several Erasmus+ projects within the EU and beyond (e.g., Iran), and creates popular educational media content, among others.
Partners include universities in Europe (Austria, Poland, Germany, Netherlands, Belgium, Slovakia, etc.) and also universities on a global scale (USA, Iran, etc.).
Mission and Objectives
The Department of Communication at Palacký University is committed to fostering ethical, cultural, and media literacy in a rapidly changing digital world. Our mission is to explore the role of communication in shaping public discourse, social cohesion, and cultural understanding. We aim to conduct research in communication ethics, intercultural dialogue, and the impact of media on society. Provide high-quality education that integrates theory and practice, preparing students for careers in media, public relations, and cultural organizations. Promote interdisciplinary collaboration to address pressing societal challenges, including misinformation, polarization, and the erosion of trust in public institutions. And enhance internationalization by engaging with global academic and professional networks to exchange knowledge and foster dialogue.
Main Projects / Activities
The Department of Communication is actively engaged in a variety of projects and activities. Key projects and activities include research and educational projects such as online MA study program: Ethics and Culture in Crisis Communication. This innovative program addresses the ethical and cultural dimensions of communication during crises, equipping students with the skills to navigate complex media environments. The department coordinates an international network focusing on media ethics, fostering collaboration among universities in Central and Eastern Europe, CEEPUS Media ethics.
Among international initiatives belong Erasmus+ collaborative projects with European and global partners to promote mobility, knowledge exchange, and research on intercultural and interreligious communication. And Blended Intensive Program (BIP) as well hosting international students and academics for interdisciplinary courses combining in-person and online learning, emphasizing media ethics and cultural sensitivity.
Noc Vědců (Night of Scientists) fulfills the third role of university for example. An annual event organized by students and faculty to popularize science and promote public understanding of ethical communication.
How can you contribute to the Network in your country?
The Department of Communication Studies with a special focus on Media Ethics, Online Communication, and Online Social Networks can make the following contributions to the Anna Lindh Foundation:
The department can conduct research on ethical practices in media and online communication, exploring issues such as disinformation, hate speech, and polarization on social networks. This research can inform policy recommendations for the Anna Lindh Foundation on how to address these challenges effectively. By organizing workshops, seminars, and training programs, the department can enhance the capacity of journalists, media professionals, and civil society actors affiliated with the Anna Lindh Foundation.
Media and online communication play a crucial role in shaping perceptions and fostering intercultural understanding. The department can collaborate with the Anna Lindh Foundation to develop campaigns and initiatives that promote dialogue and mutual respect across diverse communities, both online and offline. Develop and promote guidelines for ethical journalism and online communication within the context of intercultural dialogue. These guidelines can provide practical recommendations for media practitioners and digital communicators associated with the Anna Lindh Foundation.
The department offer expertise in monitoring and evaluating the impact of media and online communication initiatives on intercultural dialogue and understanding. This evaluation can help the Anna Lindh Foundation refine its strategies and demonstrate the effectiveness of its programs. Facilitate partnerships with other academic institutions, media organizations, and civil society groups working on similar themes. This collaboration can strengthen the reach and impact of the Anna Lindh Foundation’s initiatives in promoting media ethics and intercultural dialogue. Given the importance of youth engagement in online communication and social networks, the department can develop programs to enhance digital literacy and critical thinking skills among young people. These efforts can empower youth to become responsible digital citizens and advocates for intercultural dialogue.
Why do you want to join the ALF Network?
The Department of Communication Studies, with its focus on Media Ethics, Online Communication, and Online Social Networks, have several reasons to join the Anna Lindh Foundation network.
Joining the Anna Lindh Foundation network provides opportunities to collaborate with other academic institutions, media organizations, civil society groups, and policymakers across the Euro-Mediterranean region. This networking can lead to joint research projects, knowledge sharing, and the exchange of best practices in media ethics and intercultural dialogue. Being part of the Anna Lindh Foundation network opens doors to funding opportunities, grants, and resources that support research, training programs, and initiatives related to media ethics and online communication. This access can help the department expand its activities and impact in these areas.
Participation in the network offers continuous learning opportunities through workshops, conferences, and seminars organized by the Anna Lindh Foundation. This exposure allows faculty members and researchers to stay updated on emerging trends, technologies, and policies in the field of media and communication. It can provide students with valuable internship opportunities, international exchanges, and exposure to real-world projects focused on media ethics and intercultural communication.
Being associated with a respected international organization like the Anna Lindh Foundation enhances the department's visibility and reputation both regionally and globally. This affiliation can attract talented students, researchers, and partnerships that strengthen the department's academic profile. By joining the network, the department actively contributes to this important mission, promoting peace, understanding, and collaboration across diverse cultural contexts and the department can contribute its expertise to shape policies and initiatives related to media, communication, and intercultural dialogue.