Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2019 - CMNS 201W D100

Empirical Communication Research Methods (4)

Class Number: 10576

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2019: Tue, 10:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    24 units, and CMNS 110 and 130.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

An introduction to empirical research methods in diverse traditions of communication enquiry. Some methods recognize communication as everyday interactions; others analyze communication as a process; still others blend traditional scientific empiricism with analytical and critical methods derived from the arts and humanities. Topics include: ethics, paradigms, conceptualizing and operationalizing research, sampling, interviews, surveys, unobtrusive observation, content analysis, and the role of statistics in communication research. Students with credit for CMNS 201 or CMNS 260 may not take this course for further credit. Writing/Quantitative.

COURSE DETAILS:

This course is an introduction to the ways of conducting empirical research.  Empirical research uses techniques of direct and indirect observation to test hypotheses and develop new ideas.  The course will introduce students to basic principles and tools in research design and data analysis.   

The goal of this course is to help students develop the necessary skills to read and critically evaluate research reports and scholarly articles.  The course provides useful knowledge for upper-level coursework, and opportunities for students to learn skills many employers hope new university graduates will have.   

Empirical research guides decision-making in matters that concern all of us. Understanding how research is done is an essential step in assessing appropriate uses of research in real world applications.

Grading

  • (To be confirmed in class)
  • Quizzes (during lectures or tutorials) 25%
  • Final In-class Test 25%
  • Research Assignments 30%
  • Attendance and Participation in Labs and Tutorials 20%

NOTES:

The School expects that the grades awarded in this course will bear some reasonable relation to established university-wide practices with respect to both levels and distribution of grades. In addition, the School will follow Policy S10.01 with respect to Academic Integrity, and Policies S10.02, S10.03 and S10.04 with regard to Student Discipline.  [Note: as of May 1, 2009, the previous T10 series of policies covering Intellectual Honesty (T10.02), and Academic Discipline (T10.03) have been replaced with the new S10 series of policies.]

REQUIREMENTS:

*Students who began their degrees in Fall 2006 onwards must successfully complete at least 6 (Q) units, lower or upper division.  It is strongly recommended that students take (Q) courses as early as possible, within their first 60 units. Courses with (Q) designation will assist students to develop quantitative (numeric, geometric) or formal (deductive, probabilistic) reasoning, and to develop skills in practical problem-solving, critical evaluation, or analysis. Students must achieve a minimum C- grade in (Q) courses.

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

Babbie, E. R. and L.W. Roberts, Fundamentals of Social Research (4th edition). Toronto: Nelson Education, 2018.
ISBN: 978-0-17-678576-5.

Other readings will available electronically, or posted On Reserve at the Burnaby Campus Library.

Registrar Notes:

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating.  Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community.  Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS