Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Summer 2023 - CMNS 362 D100

Evaluation Methods for Applied Communication Research (6)

Class Number: 1002

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    May 8 – Aug 4, 2023: Wed, 9:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Aug 9, 2023
    Wed, 12:00–3:00 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    60 units including CMNS 253 (or 253W) with a minimum grade of C-, and two of CMNS 201W (201 or 260), CMNS 202 (or 262) or CMNS 261, both with a minimum grade of C-.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Research design and techniques for the study of the introduction, uses and consequences of new media and technologies, new communication policies and practices in their socio-economic and cultural context, and communication in innovation and change.

COURSE DETAILS:

This is a course in applied communication that spans theory and methods of communication research. Methods introduced in this course can be appropriately used to pursue research questions in a number of areas, however mass mediated communication and communication infrastructures will be the focus of class discussion. Lectures introduce a variety of theoretical issues, as well as pragmatic concerns that arise in utilizing the methods introduced in the course. Students will be introduced to a variety of research methods that may include interview techniques, textual discourse and content analysis, survey research, and focus groups. Student groups will work together to design, develop, and implement an original pilot study using at least two methods introduced in class on a self-selected topic (subject to approval from the course instructor). In previous iterations of this class, students have examined the gamification and quantified care of the self; precarious labour in creative and cultural industries; the representation of race, gender, class and/or sexuality in the media; but these need not confine or demarcate areas of research. Suitable topics tend to synthesis at least two of the three research areas taught within the School of Communication: cultural studies; technology studies; and political economy. They also reflect a historically situated awareness to current events.

Class Format:
The course is organized as one 3-hour lecture/workshop per week, with 1-hour tutorials following. During the first half of the course, the instructor will combine a mixture of lectures and extra office hours for group meetings (on occasion). The second half of the course (after the midterm exam) proceeds with group meetings. To gain the most benefit from these group meetings, students should bring materials that have collected during their fieldwork.

Grading

  • Project abstract 5%
  • Project literature review 10%
  • Quiz 10%
  • Project proposal 15%
  • Project Presentation 10%
  • Peer evaluation 10%
  • Project report 30%
  • Tutorial attendance and Participation 10%

REQUIREMENTS:

Unless otherwise instructed, all assignments will be submitted on Canvas by 11:59pm on the day indicated on the syllabus. Late submissions will be penalized 10% per calendar day. Assignments will not be accepted after 2 weeks past the due date. If you need an extension on an assignment, consult with your TA at least a week before the original due date. Extensions will be granted on a case by case basis. Tutorial participation and lab exercises cannot be made up.

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

SFU’s Academic Integrity website 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

RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the semester are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.