"Philosophy of science and research methods in Media and Communication Studies" is a course that explores philosophy of science in the broader context of social science and arts and humanities, but with a special focus on research traditions and epistemology in the field of media and communication studies. The course consists of three modules:
1. Philosophy of Science (5 credits). In the first module, we critically explore how knowledge is perceived, constructed, produced and valued within both arts and humanities and in social science. A key goal is for you to develop an informed and independent stance of your own in regards to different ways of viewing the limits and benefits of academic research in different disciplines in general, and in media and communication studies in particular. The examination for this module is an “Over-the-day-essay”. (Instructions will be posted on Moodle).
2. Research methods in Media and Communication (5 credits) In the second module, the focus is on engaging with a variety of methodological approaches within the field of media and communication studies. This will be done by looking at Celia Lury's concept of "problem spaces" and diving into selected examples of methodological approaches. The examination for this module will be a Viva (Oral Exam). Instructions will be posted on Moodle.
3. Problem space probe (5 credits). In the final module you will work in pairs under supervision, with sketching a case study within media and communication studies that tests the relation between problem statement, method and ethics. This case is theoretically based on module 1 and 2, and should be explorative, stressing research ethics and the function of research methods in relation to problem statement and what Celia Lury calls "problem spaces".
Throughout the module, we will also work in supervised groups with formulating individual research plans as support for future work on thesis in spring semester.
- Course Coordinator: Per Israelson