COM2420

Communication Research and Methodology ( 6 points, SCA Band 1, 0.125 EFTSL)

Leader: Franzel du Plooy-Cilliers

Offered:
Malaysia First semester 2006 (Day)
South Africa Second semester 2006 (Day)

Synopsis: The unit introduces critical and practical approaches to research in the media and communications industries, presenting first a critical overview of the rationale for research practice in industry and academia, and then an outline of various traditions of inquiry. This material is followed by a series of lectures on specific quantitative and qualitative research methodologies. The material is framed within an ongoing review of key ethical and critical concepts.

Assessment: Critical theory component - take home exam (1500 words); 30% + Ethics precis (1000 words); 20% + Student research projects (2000 words); 40% + Presentation Panel (oral); 10%

Contact Hours: One two-hour seminar per week.

Prerequisites: COM1010, COM1020