Research Symposium

BIO

Darien Vazquez is a sophomore at Florida State University pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Finance and in Math. His academic interests include financial analysis and using quantitative methods to understand real-world problems. He has participated in collaborative research that involved collecting data, analyzing results, and presenting findings in clear and organized ways. Through these experiences, he has developed skills in teamwork and critical thinking.
His research interests focus on how communication education has changed since COVID-19. Vazquez enjoys working on projects that combine analytical thinking with practical applications. He hopes to continue gaining research experience during his undergraduate studies while expanding his knowledge in finance and in math. In the future he plans to become a quantitative analyst where he skills of teamwork and critical thinking can be utilized.

EMPOWERING UNDERPRIVILEGED COMMUNITIES: A STUDY OF INNOVATIVE COMMUNICATION PRACTICES IN HIGHER EDUCATION POST-COVID-19

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic caused many major changes in higher education especially in journalism and communication programs. Universities around the world were forced to quickly move to online and remote learning which changed the way that students and professors communicated and used technology. These changes highlighted both new challenges and new opportunities particularly for underprivileged communities that often face limited access to educational resources. This study examines how higher education institutions in the United States and Latin America responded to these challenges by adapting their teaching methods and use of digital technologies.

This research is conducted between 2023 and 2025 to compare schools of journalism and communication in the United States and 20 Latin American countries affiliated with the Latin American Federation of Schools of Social Communication (FELAFACS), in collaboration with the Association for Latin America Media and Marketing Communication Research (ALMMCR). The study focuses on course content, teaching styles, and the use of new technologies, including artificial intelligence.

By identifying key challenges and successful adaptations that emerged during and after the pandemic this research aims to support improvements in communication education. The findings are intended to help universities design more flexible and inclusive programs that better prepare the future journalists and communication professionals particularly in developing and underdeveloped regions of Latin America.

Keywords: Communication Education Post COVID-19