Qualitative Methods in Communication Research
CORE 204 | Last Offered: 1st Semester, AY 2024-2025
Course Description
This course refines and expands students’ knowledge of qualitative research from senior high school, emphasizing data collection methods. It covers key principles and philosophies of the qualitative paradigm; introduces alternative methods like qualitative surveys and story completion tasks; reviews elements of a strong qualitative research proposal; and highlights the importance of identity formation and professional growth in qualitative inquiry. Additionally, it primes students for qualitative data analysis by introducing them to thematic analysis. By course end, students will be able to critically and reflexively design, plan, and write qualitative research proposals in communication research and the broader social sciences.
Course Learning Outcomes (CLOs)
This course refines and expands students’ knowledge of qualitative research from senior high school, emphasizing data collection methods. It covers key principles and philosophies of the qualitative paradigm; introduces alternative methods like qualitative surveys and story completion tasks; reviews elements of a strong qualitative research proposal; and highlights the importance of identity formation and professional growth in qualitative inquiry. Additionally, it primes students for qualitative data analysis by introducing them to thematic analysis. By course end, students will be able to critically and reflexively design, plan, and write qualitative research proposals in communication research and the broader social sciences.
Course Learning Outcomes (CLOs)
- Grasp the foundational principles and philosophies underpinning qualitative research as a distinct paradigm.
- Demonstrate proficiency in employing both mainstream and alternative qualitative data collection methods
- Understand and apply thematic analysis as a flexible, foundational method for qualitative data analysis, enabling the identification and interpretation of patterns and themes within qualitative data.
- Identify and articulate the essential components of a strong qualitative research proposal, encompassing introduction, literature review, framework, methodology, ethical considerations, and timeline.
- Recognize and value the role of conducting qualitative research as a crucial element of their identity formation and professional growth as emerging researchers.
Course Grading System
- Written Midterm Examination (30%)
- Qualitative Research Proposal (40%)
- Initial Research Proposal
- Methodology
- Ethical Considerations and Timeline
- Final Research Proposal
- Oral Proposal Presentation (10%)
Individual Learning Portfolio (20%)
TOTAL 100%