Summer 2020 - CMNS 201W D100

Empirical Communication Research Methods (4)

Class Number: 2569

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    May 11 – Aug 10, 2020: Tue, 10:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Aug 17, 2020
    Mon, 3:30–6:30 p.m.
    Location: TBA

  • 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

  • Quizzes (During Lectures or Tutorials) 25%
  • Final Exam (2 Hours) 20%
  • Research Assignments 30%
  • Attendance and Participation in Labs and Tutorials 25%

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: 9780176570118

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

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

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

TEACHING AT SFU IN SUMMER 2020

Please note that all teaching at SFU in summer term 2020 will be conducted through remote methods. Enrollment in this course acknowledges that remote study may entail different modes of learning, interaction with your instructor, and ways of getting feedback on your work than may be the case for in-person classes.

Students with hidden or visible disabilities who believe they may need class or exam accommodations, including in the current context of remote learning, are encouraged to register with the SFU Centre for Accessible Learning (caladmin@sfu.ca or 778-782-3112) as soon as possible to ensure that they are eligible and that approved accommodations and services are implemented in a timely fashion.