cover
Contact Name
Ferry Darmawan
Contact Email
mediator@unisba.ac.id
Phone
+6281321932145
Journal Mail Official
mediator@unisba.ac.id
Editorial Address
Gedung Dekanat Unisba Lt. 7 Jl. Tamansari No. 24/26 Bandung 40116, Telp 022 4203368
Location
Kota bandung,
Jawa barat
INDONESIA
Mediator: Jurnal Komunikasi
Core Subject : Education, Social,
Mediator: Jurnal Komunikasi focuses on communication studies and media. Although centered on communication, the Mediator is open and welcomes the contribution of many disciplines and approaches that meet at crossroads with communication studies. The type of writing is in the form of scientific articles based on the results of field research. This journal is intended as a medium of scientific study to communicate vision, reflection, conceptual thinking, research results, exciting experiences in the field, and critical analysis studies on contemporary communication issues.
Articles 87 Documents
Commodification of Advertorials in Tribun Sumsel’s 2024 Palembang Election Campaign Desmalinda; Sulkhan, Khumaid Akhyat
Mediator: Jurnal Komunikasi Vol. 18 No. 1 (2025): Mediator: Jurnal Komunikasi (Sinta 2)
Publisher : UPT Publikasi Ilmiah UNISBA

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.29313/mediator.v18i1.5567

Abstract

This study examines the phenomenon of content commodification in digital media, especially in advertorial practices that appear on the online media of the Tribun Sumsel during the 2024 Palembang Mayor Election campaign. The primary focus of the study is how advertorials, which are supposed to be a transparent form of advertising, further blur the line between news and advertising, which risks undermining journalistic objectivity. This study uses qualitative descriptive methods through in-depth interviews and content analysis to explore the dynamics of implementing journalistic firewall boundaries between the newsroom and the business space in the media. The findings show that the media is increasingly prioritizing commercial and political interests by producing content that cannot be distinguished from news and advertorial. This practice has the potential to reduce the credibility of the media and obscure the function of the press as an agent of power supervision. This study shows the importance of maintaining the difference in quality of the content of news texts and editorial texts to avoid information ambiguity by improving the quality of journalistic work. Because journalistic firewalls do not only refer to technical restrictions by emphasizing advertorial columns with news alone, but also by differentiating the writing quality of both. Maintaining journalistic firewalls is essential to ensuring that the media remains an objective and independent source of information for the public.
Behavioral Model of Social Media Analytics Use in Public Relations Anisa Diniati; Martha Tri Lestari; Purnama Alamsyah; Mia Damayanti; Raditya Pratama Putra
Mediator: Jurnal Komunikasi Vol. 18 No. 1 (2025): Mediator: Jurnal Komunikasi (Sinta 2)
Publisher : UPT Publikasi Ilmiah UNISBA

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.29313/mediator.v18i1.5608

Abstract

This study explores the use of Social Media Analytics (SMA) among public sector Public Relations (PR) officers in West Java, Indonesia, using the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) framework. A survey of 23 PR civil servants investigates how attitudes, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control, and behavioral intentions affect SMA adoption. Descriptive and Spearman correlation analyses reveal significant relationships, especially between perceived behavioral control and usage intention. PR officers generally display positive attitudes toward SMA but lack sufficient knowledge and technical skills. The study recommends training to enhance SMA proficiency and integration into PR functions. The research contributes a novel behavioral model explaining SMA adoption, extending TPB to the context of government digital communication. The findings underscore the strategic role of SMA in improving organizational communication, transparency, and public engagement. This study provides theoretical advancement by contextualizing TPB within public communication and practical guidance for policymakers and PR professionals seeking to optimize digital engagement strategies in developing countries.
Bridging Health Information Access for Low-Income Parents of Children with Disabilities Kurniawan, Reza
Mediator: Jurnal Komunikasi Vol. 18 No. 1 (2025): Mediator: Jurnal Komunikasi (Sinta 2)
Publisher : UPT Publikasi Ilmiah UNISBA

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.29313/mediator.v18i1.6126

Abstract

This study explores self-education in health information seeking among parents of children with disabilities from low-income backgrounds. These parents face intersecting emotional, social, and financial burdens due to limited access to formal support and health resources. Using a qualitative method and in-depth interviews, the research examines how they navigate health information needs and educate themselves about their children’s conditions. Findings reveal a heavy reliance on informal sources—family, friends, and community members—which often leads to a mix of accurate advice and misinformation. Cultural beliefs also shape their understanding of disability, affecting their trust in and willingness to seek professional healthcare. Despite these constraints, self-education emerges as a critical tool for empowerment, enabling parents to make informed decisions and advocate for their children’s wellbeing. The study recommends designing targeted, culturally sensitive educational programs that address the specific health literacy gaps within this demographic. Community-based interventions and accessible, trustworthy digital content are essential to support informed choices. Theoretically, this study expands existing health information-seeking models by incorporating perspectives on socio-cultural mediation and digital inequity. It emphasizes the need to consider how localized belief systems and informal networks influence decision-making in marginalized populations navigating disability and healthcare challenges.
A Media Richness Theory-Based Analysis of Students' Communication Experience in AI-Assisted Consultation Mirawati, Ira; Rahmawan, Detta; Sharipudin, Mohamad-Noor Salehhuddin
Mediator: Jurnal Komunikasi Vol. 18 No. 1 (2025): Mediator: Jurnal Komunikasi (Sinta 2)
Publisher : UPT Publikasi Ilmiah UNISBA

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.29313/mediator.v18i1.6816

Abstract

Recent advances in artificial intelligence (AI) have expanded students' consultation options beyond traditional sources such as parents, peers, and counselors. This study examines the emerging practice of AI-assisted consultation among Indonesian university students, employing Media Richness Theory (MRT) as an analytical framework to evaluate perceived media richness. A quantitative survey was administered to 553 students who had previously utilized AI for consultation purposes. Results indicate that AI is generally perceived as a “rich” medium, with an overall score of 3.78. In terms of MRT dimensions, AI scored highly in ambiguity reduction (4.02), immediacy of feedback (4.16), cue multiplicity (3.84), and message personalization (3.91). However, comparisons with conventional consultation methods (3.43) and the perceived long-term impact of AI-based interactions (3.60) were rated at a moderate level. These findings suggest that while AI demonstrates notable potential in delivering rapid, tailored, and multifaceted responses, its effectiveness remains limited when assessed against traditional human counseling, particularly regarding sustained outcomes. Consequently, AI should be positioned as a complementary tool rather than a substitute for human counselors. Enhancing AI’s capacity to produce enduring psychological and developmental support will be essential to fully leverage its role in educational and psychosocial consultation contexts.
Communication with Tabayyun on Negative Issues of Presidential Candidates on Social Media Firmansyah; Kurnia, Septiawan Santana; Wiksana, Wiki Angga; Fadhli, Ahmad; Azzahra, Sharla; Cahyaning, Ranisa
Mediator: Jurnal Komunikasi Vol. 18 No. 1 (2025): Mediator: Jurnal Komunikasi (Sinta 2)
Publisher : UPT Publikasi Ilmiah UNISBA

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.29313/mediator.v18i1.5297

Abstract

The comment section feature on social media serves as a public space for discussion, especially on news accounts. However, discussions often become a means of spreading hate speech and even hoaxes. The concept of tabayyun, as an approach rooted in verification and the search for truth, is very important in encouraging responsible discussion. This study aims to identify communication patterns that may spread misinformation and how this can be addressed through the application of tabayyun. A qualitative methodology was employed using a netnographic approach, with data collected through online data capture techniques from January 2023 to February 2024, comprising 923 posts. The analysed data was then used to draw conclusions that could serve as guidelines for developing tabayyun communication strategies in managing the overwhelming flow of information. Findings indicate that on the accounts of @pikiranrakyat and @republikaonline, the balance between positive and negative news coverage regarding the three candidate pairs is relatively balanced. Negative news, tends to generate a significant number of comments, creating space for active discussion among netizens, with comments that indicate hate speech. In Islam, the tabayyun communication pattern can create social responsibility to clarify and verify the information presented, whether by administrators or other netizens.
Digital Literacy: Creating a Friendly Space for Communication for the Elderly At LII (Indonesia Elderly Institution), Makassar Anwar, Citra Rosalyn; Kanata, Arnidah; Ohan, Faridah
Mediator: Jurnal Komunikasi Vol. 18 No. 1 (2025): Mediator: Jurnal Komunikasi (Sinta 2)
Publisher : UPT Publikasi Ilmiah UNISBA

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.29313/mediator.v18i1.5775

Abstract

As the communication space and public services shift to the digital world, elderly need to be able to use digital devices safely and comfortably. Elderly, as users of digital platforms, require special attention, mainly due to the widespread dissemination of online information. Assistance for older people is crucial so that they can communicate and interact comfortably in the digital world. One of these efforts is realised through the Elderly Digital Academy program from Tular Nalar, which was then developed by the Indonesian Elderly Institute (LLI) in Makassar as a mentoring and training program. This study assisted 32 elderly individuals in addressing issues such as hoaxes, online fraud, and digital transactions. The goal is to empower elderly to become active internet users who can create and disseminate fact- based educational content. Although the elderly face challenges such as fake news and hate speech, they still have the spirit to learn and contribute. Digital literacy for elderly is not just about disseminating information, but also creating collaborative spaces and encouraging active participation in digital communities.
Public Information Disclosure and Crisis Communication in the Time of the COVID-19 Outbreak Safaria, Anne Friday; Malik, Dedy Djamaluddin; Rachmiatie, Atie
Mediator: Jurnal Komunikasi Vol. 18 No. 1 (2025): Mediator: Jurnal Komunikasi (Sinta 2)
Publisher : UPT Publikasi Ilmiah UNISBA

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.29313/mediator.v18i1.4956

Abstract

This article aims to determine how the government implemented public information disclosure and crisis communication management during the COVID-19 pandemic. Theoretically, crisis communication is divided into three phases: pre-crisis, crisis phase, and post-crisis. This article uses a qualitative approach by framing  (qualitative content analysis) issues related to crisis communication. Data collection comes from government media outlets as primary data and non-government media, books, journal articles, and other documents as secondary data. This study found that the content of the information conveyed is divided into three phases of crisis communication. Still, the government has been unable to handle crisis communication during the COVID-19 pandemic optimally. This is due to a lack of preparation in collecting pandemic data, a lack of coordination between institutions and elites, and the failure to disseminate public information that has not been widespread across all regions/provinces. This research is expected to contribute to the theory and practice of Public Administration and Communication, particularly in formulating and implementing public policies for crisis communication management in dealing with future crises.