Research Methods and Strategies for Communication COMMS5003

  • Academic Session: 2025-26
  • School: School of Critical Studies
  • Credits: 20
  • Level: Level 5 (SCQF level 11)
  • Typically Offered: Semester 2
  • Available to Visiting Students: No
  • Collaborative Online International Learning: No
  • Curriculum For Life: No

Short Description

"Research Methods and Strategies for Communication" is a course designed to equip students with the essential tools and techniques for conducting research in the field of communication. The course research methods, including surveys, interviews, content analysis, and experimental design. Students will learn how to design research projects, collect and analyse data, and interpret results within the context of communication studies. Emphasising critical thinking and methodological rigour, the course prepares students to conduct independent research and apply research strategies to real-world communication challenges.

Timetable

One two-hour lecture/seminar per week for 10 weeks

Requirements of Entry

Standard entry to Masters at College level.

Excluded Courses

None

Co-requisites

None

Assessment

Research Proposal 1000 words (40%)

Data Analysis Report 2000 words (60%) 

Course Aims

This course aims to:

• provide students with understanding of research methodologies relevant to communication studies

• equip students with the skills to design effective research projects, including the formulation of research questions and selection of appropriate research methods

• train students in various data collection techniques, such as surveys, interviews, content analysis, and experiments, enabling them to gather reliable and valid data

• encourage students to analyse critically and interpret research findings, to assess the strengths and limitations of different research strategies.

• prepare students to apply research methods and strategies to address real-world communication challenges, enabling them to contribute effectively to academic, professional, and industry-related projects.

Intended Learning Outcomes of Course

By the end of this course students will be able to:

• explain key research methods used in communication studies

• design research projects that effectively address communication-related issues

• demonstrate proficiency in collecting, organising, and analysing data using appropriate research tools and techniques, such as surveys, interviews, and content analysis

• critically evaluate the quality and validity of research findings, recognising the strengths and limitations of various research methods

• apply research methods and strategies to real-world communication problems, effectively translating theoretical knowledge into practical solutions.

Minimum Requirement for Award of Credits

Students must submit at least 75% by weight of the components (including examinations) of the course's summative assessment.