Mass Communication Research Methods

This essential set brings together leading articles on the three major domains of the communication process: 1) Institutions/Organisations/Production; 2) Content/Representation; and 3) Audiences/Consumption.

Over the last decade there has been a growing use of qualitative research methods in the study of social and cultural change. Incorporating theoretical insights from discourse analysis, ethnograohy and reception theory such research has proven a fruitful and enlightening mode of analysis.The Handbook represents the first volume devoted to the utilization of such methods in mass media research. It includes contributions from those at the forefront o communication studies who apply a developing methodology to media contents, contexts and audiences. Among others, Gaye Tuchman writes on news production, Dave Morley and Roger Silverstone on media audiences, and Horace Newcombe applies qualitative methods to television drama.In view of the rapid changes which the media environment is now undergoing, the books systematic overview of qualitative research methods will benefit commercial organisations as well as academic institutions.

Originally published in 1988. Step-by-step, this book leads students from problem identification, through the mazes of surveys, experimentation, historical/qualitative studies, statistical analysis, and computer data processing to the final submission and publication in scientific or popular publications.

Assessing the relative strengths and weaknesses of qualitative and quantitative methods, this book examines the methodological perspectives adopted by media researchers in their attempts to understand the nature of media in society.

Introduces key research methods and approaches used in the study of mass communication and media, for students in communications, media and cultural studies, and other social science disciplines. After an overview of research principles, coverage includes participant observation, archival research, content analysis, surveys, and computer-assisted handling and analysis of data. The development and application of each method is described, and examples of research instruments are given. Annotation copyrighted by Book News, Inc., Portland, OR

A hands-on guide for applying research methods to common problems, issues, projects, and questions that communication practitioners deal with on a regular basis, this text demonstrates the relevance of research in professional roles and communication and media careers. The second edition features updated material that covers major communication research methods including surveys, experiments, focus groups, and observation research while also providing key background information on ethics, validity, reliability, concept explication, statistical analysis, and other current topics. It continues to foster student engagement with research through its numerous features and practical activities, including: Research in Depth—examples of methods as applied in scholarly research Reflect & React—problems and issues that promote reflection and discussion Voices from Industry—Q&As with professionals working in communication industries End-of-Unit Activities—exercises that reinforce concepts and content The text is ideally suited to both undergraduate and graduate courses in mass communication research methods. Online resources, including sample syllabi, PowerPoint slides, and test banks are available on the companion website: www.routledge.com/cw/boyle.

Combines mass communication theory with detailed descriptions of the various research methods from content anaysis to survey research, historical and legal research and qualitative studies. Also includes information on ethics and research presentation.