Curricular Unit:Code:
Research Methods and Techniques in Communication Sciences1151MTIC
Year:Level:Course:Credits:
1DoctorateCommunication Sciences15 ects
Learning Period:Language of Instruction:Total Hours:
Winter SemesterPortuguese/English195
Learning Outcomes of the Curricular Unit:
- To promote the study of scientific method and research in Communication Sciences fostering the deep and systematic knowledge of its theories and techniques.
- To promote the study of qualitative methods and quantitative techniques applied to Communication Sciences contemplating the theoretical and practical methodological aspects of data analysis.
- To develop the critical analysis of methodologies.
Knowledge:
Thorough knowledge and understanding of theory and qualitative methods and quantitative techniques.
Skills:
Critical and abstract thinking.
Exploration of theories, methodologies and practices applied to research in Communication Sciences.
Original and independent solving of complex problems within the framework of scientific research.
Systematization and communication of scientific research-related information to peers and the community.
Skills:
Effective use of learning resources.
Autonomy and self-criticism
Group research
Quality and ethics in research
Syllabus:
1. Qualitative methods
1.1 Design of a qualitative research
1.2 Qualitative discourse analysis
1.3 Semiotic analysis
1.4 In-depth interview
1.5 Biographies
1.6 Focus group
1.7 Ethnography - direct and participant observation
1.8 Qualitative analysis of social networks
1.9 Qualitative analysis software
1.10 Case studies
2. Quantitative techniques
2.1 Design of quantitative research
2.2 Types of variables in quantitative research
2.3 Sampling methods
2.4 Questionnaire surveys
2.5 Quantitative content analysis
2.6 Data collection methods
2.7 Quantitative data analysis software
2.8 Data analysis in quantitative research
2.9 Reporting and presentation of results
2.10 Case studies
Demonstration of the Syllabus Coherence with the Curricular Unit's Objectives:
The syllabus contents of the course favor the deepening of theoretical concepts and techniques of practical application in the field of scientific research methodology, thus promoting the analytical and critical approach of these areas. Thus, the aim is to promote scientific research resulting from the acquired knowledge.
Teaching Methodologies (Including Evaluation):
Classes will consist of the presentation of concepts, methods and techniques related to scientific research in Communication Sciences. This exhibition is accompanied by the involvement of students in the analysis, reflection and criticism of general contents, with a view to deepening and scientific investigation. Thus, practical classes will be conducted to apply knowledge to research, as well as an analysis of the methodology used in various doctoral theses and other research in Communication Sciences.
The assessment of students is based on their presence and participation in classes as well as on research projects and individual research work.
Demonstration of the Coherence between the Teaching Methodologies and the Learning Outcomes:
The curricular unit aims to familiarize doctoral students with quantitative and qualitative methodological tools that they can use to prepare their theses. Theoretical lectures and analysis and interpretation of texts, complemented with practical classes of methodological analysis to investigations for the application of knowledge and the development of research skills allow to achieve the learning objectives.
Reading:
Berger, Arthur A.(2019). Media and Communication Research Methods. Fifth Edition. Los Angeles: Sage.
Bhattacherjee, Anol, "Social Science Research: Principles, Methods, and Practices" (2012). Scholar Commons, Textbooks Collection. 3. Disponível em: http://scholarcommons.usf.edu/oa_textbooks/3
Coutinho, Clara P. (2014). Metodologia de Investigação em Ciências Sociais e Humanas. Coimbra: Almedina.
Denzin, N. K. & Lincoln, Y. S. (Eds.). (2017). The SAGE Handbook of Qualitative Research. London: Sage.
Gibbs, G. (2018). Analyzing Qualitative Data. London: Sage.
Sousa, J. P. (2006). Elementos de Teoria e Pesquisa da Comunicação e dos Media. Porto: UFP.
Wimmer, R. D. & Dominick, J. R. (1996). La Investigación Científica de los Medios de Comunicación. Barcelona: Bosch.
Wrench, J.S. (2019). Quantitative Research Methods for Communication: A Hands-On Approach (4th edition). New York, NY: Oxford University Press.
Lecturer (* Responsible):
Jorge Pedro Sousa (jpsousa@ufp.edu.pt)
Miguel Trigo (mtrigo@ufp.edu.pt)
Paulo Cardoso (pcardoso@ufp.edu.pt)