General provisions

The course is part of the course package International Media and Communication Studies, 60 högskolepoäng/60 ECTS.

Entry requirements

Competence in English equivalent to the level English B in Swedish upper secondary school (corresponding to TOEFL score 550/213) and university studies 30 credits.

Learning outcomes

The aim of the course is to introduce main research approaches and methods to media and communication. After the course the students should be able to

Knowledge and understanding

- demonstrate an understanding of the principles and rationale of a range of research paradigms

- recognise the advantages and disadvantages of specific methods of analysis

Skills and capacities

- formulate research questions, select appropriate methods, make analysis using relevant theory and method and write a research report

- apply research methods in the area media and communication

Evaluative capacity and approach

- discuss and analyse ethical problems connected to research in the area media and communication

- show awareness of risks and harms of different research methods and designs in media and communication research

Content

The course gives an overview of the methods and tools used for media analysis. Theoretical perspectives, methodology and practical methods will be covered. Basic concepts in theory and the philosophy of science are also introduced. Specifically, the semiotic, hermeneutic, rhetoric and narrative forms of media analysis will be presented. The course includes practical applications of the analytical techniques.

Instruction

Lectures, workshops and seminars.