Overview
Introduction to communication research and methods used to conduct research on communication.
Communication Research Methods introduces students to the fundamental assumptions, principles and practices that are used in contemporary communication research. This practical knowledge is highly valued among prospective employers in government, corporate and community sectors. The paper assumes no prior knowledge of social science research and will guide students through to confidently undertake small-scale communication research projects.
About this paper
| Paper title | Communication Research Methods |
|---|---|
| Subject | Media, Film and Communication |
| EFTS | 0.15 |
| Points | 18 points |
| Teaching period | Not offered in 2025 (On campus) |
| Domestic Tuition Fees ( NZD ) | $1,040.70 |
| International Tuition Fees | Tuition Fees for international students are elsewhere on this website. |
- Prerequisite
- MFCO 101 or MFCO 102 or MFCO 103 or 54 Arts points
- Schedule C
- Arts and Music
- Contact
- mfco@otago.ac.nz
- Teaching staff
- To be advised when next offered.
- Paper Structure
The paper covers two key areas:
- Assumptions, principles and practices, including ethical considerations, associated with quantitative methods used in communication research; and identifying appropriate tools to address a research question or hypothesis.
- Assumptions, principles and practices, including ethical considerations, associated with qualitative methods used in communication research; and identifying appropriate methods to address a research question or issue.
These fundamental research methods are then combined utilising online systems of data collection and analysis to present both quantitative and qualitative results in one research project. The concept of Mixed Methods Research underlies this approach.
- Teaching Arrangements
- Lectures and tutorials.
- Textbooks
- To be advised when next offered.
- Graduate Attributes Emphasised
- Scholarship, Communication, Critical thinking, Ethics, Information literacy, Research, Teamwork.
View more information about Otago's graduate attributes. - Learning Outcomes
Students who successfully complete the paper should be able to:
- Use analytical and applied skills to identify a communication problem or issue
- Locate appropriate methods to analyse communication phenomena
- Successfully plan, undertake and report upon a small research project utilizing both quantitative and qualitative research methods
- Critically analyse communication research methods and findings reported in the media
- Assessment details
Assessment:
- Research proposal: 25%
- Media Journal/Blog: 15%
- In-Class Test: 20%
- Research Report: 40%