Computational Communication Science: Lessons from Working Group Sessions with Experts of an Emerging Research Field

This chapter provides an overview of computational communication science (CCS) as an emerging and exemplary subfield of computational social science. Based on lessons from working group sessions with 34 experts, we address recent challenges and desiderata of CCS research while reflecting upon its future development and expansion. Four major fields of action proved particularly relevant in these discussions: First, challenges related to a reflected but integrated CCS methodology; second, challenges related to a further elaboration on the theoretical perspectives on CCS; third, challenges related to the formation and further institutionalization of CCS as fundamental basis for further scientific exchange, progress and standardization; and fourth, implications for empirical communication research, particularly highlighting the relevance of wicked problems as research incubators driving further progress.