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COM416 Research Methods (Honours) (16)

Abstract

Students study performance, communication, design or television research methods, including performance analysis, reception theory, survey research, content and textual analysis, qualitative research, ethnography and field studies. Emphasis is given to the application of research techniques and critiques of underlying theoretical assumptions.

+ Subject Availability Modes and Location

Session 1
DistanceBathurst Campus
Session 2
DistanceBathurst Campus
Continuing students should consult the SAL for current offering details: COM416
Where differences exist between the Handbook and the SAL, the SAL should be taken as containing the correct subject offering details.

Subject information

Duration Grading System School:
Com416 (full-time) one sessionHD/FLSchool of Communication and Creative Industries

Enrolment restrictions

Entry is restricted to students enrolled in the above Honours courses.

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:
  • - be able to demonstrate an understanding and apply research methods commonly used in the theatre, communication or television industries
  • - be able to examine the underlying assumptions and theoretical models of commonly used research methods
  • - be able to demonstrate the knowledge and ability to critically examine debates about the appropriateness of research methods commonly used in the theatre, communication and television industries
  • - be able to plan and undertake a small scale research project demonstrating the use of appropriate research methods
  • - be able to demonstrate the knowledge and ability to analyse the results of that research project and write the report

Syllabus

The subject will cover the following topics:
- Review of performance, communication, design and television research methods - Qualitative research methods, including relationships to quantitative research - Fielding's 'linking data' models - Underlying assumptions of qualitative research, including grounded theory; common problems in field studies - Computer applications - Analysis and report writing - Performance research methods Reception theory; Content and textual analysis: underlying assumptions; Case study applications; Critique of applications; Ethnography: case study applications and critique; fieldwork roles and processes; Undertaking a small scale research project demonstrating the use of appropriate methods; Dissertation proposal: writing proposals; external evaluation.

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The information contained in the 2015 CSU Handbook was accurate at the date of publication: 01 October 2015. The University reserves the right to vary the information at any time without notice.