Research Methodology
Code:
3GJ303Name:
Research MethodologyTeaching semester:
AutumnLocations:
KristiansandYear:
2025 — 2026Teaching language:
EnglishStudy points:
10 Credits
The course has an introductory week with intensive teaching from Monday to Friday. The remaining six weeks of the course have weekly lectures. Online connection is available for the weekly lectures, but not for the introductory week.
As part of the course, students are required to write a concept paper for a potential MA thesis project which they will embark on in the second year of the programme.
1. Written assignment: All
2. Written exam: None
GJ 303-1: Research history and the globalization of media research
Research history is introduced with particular emphasis on traditions within media and communication research. The reorientation towards globalization in media research is considered.
GJ 303-2: The research process
This part of the course discusses elementary steps in research, such as planning a research project, making a research design, formulating research questions, reviewing literature, and reflecting on ethical challenges.
GJ 303-3: Methods in journalism and media research
The classic distinction between quantitative and qualitative approaches is discussed, as is the combination of the two approaches in actual research. Common approaches in journalism and media research are explored. The following methods are paid particular attention to: content analysis, discourse analysis, framing analysis, reception analysis, ethnographic method, media production studies, qualitative interview methods, survey studies, and comparative research. All methods are situated within Global Journalism research in the course, and the students are introduced to peculiar strands of research foci within the scholarship of different continents.
The course intends to prepare the student for a small-scale research project such as an MA thesis. The course offers an historic and thematic overview of common methods within media and journalism research. The student will also gain insight as to how these methods may practically be applied in a research project.
As an area of research, Global Journalism is part of journalism studies which in turn belongs to the wider field of media and communication research. Methodologies within media and communication research draw on theories from various disciplines and are rooted in both the humanities and the social sciences.
Due to the programme's focus on Global Journalism, research topics are likely to demand field research in foreign cultures and societies. Thus, ethnographic methods will constitute a key area of the course. The course also introduces other methods within media research, and effort is made to ensure that the student may acquire essential knowledge of a variety of research approaches. Research ethics is emphasized as a crosscutting theme throughout the course.
Knowledge
The student:
- can explain key methods within journalism and media research, both qualitative, quantitative and combined approaches
- can explain the philosophical foundation of major methodological approaches
Skills
The student:
- is able to critically assess relevant methodological approaches for a research project within journalism studies
- can evaluate potential methods for a specific research project in Global Journalism
- can reflect ethically on the choice of a research method
General competence
The student:
- is able to prepare a small-scale research project within journalism studies on a theoretical level
Book
Bryman's social research methods
Clark, Tom, Foster, Liam; Sloan, Luke; Bryman, Alan, Oxford, Oxford University Press, xxviii, 670 sider, [2021]; © 2021, isbn:9780198796053,
Article
Towards a critical research methodology in journalism: Interrogating methodological assumptions
Williams, John J, Taylor & Francis Group, 257-274, Ecquid novi, 2, 25, 2004-01-01, 257-274,
Research History: Pages 257–293.
View online
Article
Barriers to Integrating Quantitative and Qualitative Research
Bryman, Alan, SAGE Publications, 8-22, Journal of mixed methods research, 1, 1, 2007-01, 8-22,
View online
Article
What Journalism Can Offer Ethnography
Harrington, Walt, Thousand Oaks, CA, SAGE Publications, 90-104, Qualitative inquiry, 1, 9, 2003-02, 90-104,
View online
Book Chapter
Towards an ethnographic approach to global media studies
Murphy, Patrick D ; Kraidy, Marwan M, Murphy, Patrick D ; Kraidy, Marwan M, Towards an ethnographic approach to global media studies, 3-20, 2003-09-18, 3-20, isbn:9780203505441,
View online
Electronic Article
Ethical Guidelines for research in the Humanities
The Norwegian National Research Ethics Committees,
View online
Book
Internationalizing media studies
Daya Kishan Thussu (redaktør), London, Routledge, XIII, 320 s., 2009, isbn:9780415455299; 9780415455305; 0415455294; 0415455308,
1-31 and 254-307. (85 pp)
Book
Global journalism research : theories, methods, findings, future
Martin Löffelholz (redaktør), Malden, Mass., Blackwell, XIV, 304 s., 2008, isbn:9781405153317; 9781405153324,
Book
International media studies
McMillin, Divya C., Malden, Mass., Blackwell, XIII, 265 s., c2007, isbn:9781405118095; 1405118091; 9781405118101; 1405118105,
The course has an introductory week with intensive teaching from Monday to Friday. The remaining six weeks of the course have weekly lectures. Online connection is available for the weekly lectures, but not for the introductory week.
As part of the course, students are required to write a concept paper for a potential MA thesis project which they will embark on in the second year of the programme.
- A 4000 word written assignment (51 % of the final grade)
- A 4 hour written exam (49 % of the final grade)
1. Written assignment: All
2. Written exam: None
GJ 303-1: Research history and the globalization of media research
Research history is introduced with particular emphasis on traditions within media and communication research. The reorientation towards globalization in media research is considered.
GJ 303-2: The research process
This part of the course discusses elementary steps in research, such as planning a research project, making a research design, formulating research questions, reviewing literature, and reflecting on ethical challenges.
GJ 303-3: Methods in journalism and media research
The classic distinction between quantitative and qualitative approaches is discussed, as is the combination of the two approaches in actual research. Common approaches in journalism and media research are explored. The following methods are paid particular attention to: content analysis, discourse analysis, framing analysis, reception analysis, ethnographic method, media production studies, qualitative interview methods, survey studies, and comparative research. All methods are situated within Global Journalism research in the course, and the students are introduced to peculiar strands of research foci within the scholarship of different continents.
The course intends to prepare the student for a small-scale research project such as an MA thesis. The course offers an historic and thematic overview of common methods within media and journalism research. The student will also gain insight as to how these methods may practically be applied in a research project.
As an area of research, Global Journalism is part of journalism studies which in turn belongs to the wider field of media and communication research. Methodologies within media and communication research draw on theories from various disciplines and are rooted in both the humanities and the social sciences.
Due to the programme's focus on Global Journalism, research topics are likely to demand field research in foreign cultures and societies. Thus, ethnographic methods will constitute a key area of the course. The course also introduces other methods within media research, and effort is made to ensure that the student may acquire essential knowledge of a variety of research approaches. Research ethics is emphasized as a crosscutting theme throughout the course.
Knowledge
The student:
- can explain key methods within journalism and media research, both qualitative, quantitative and combined approaches
- can explain the philosophical foundation of major methodological approaches
Skills
The student:
- is able to critically assess relevant methodological approaches for a research project within journalism studies
- can evaluate potential methods for a specific research project in Global Journalism
- can reflect ethically on the choice of a research method
General competence
The student:
- is able to prepare a small-scale research project within journalism studies on a theoretical level
Book
Social Research Methods
Bryman, Alan, Oxford, Oxford University Press, Incorporated, 2015, isbn:9780199689453,
Reading for: Research History - chapters 1-5. (120 pages) Qunatitative and Qualitative approaches Chs. 7–13 (147–306); chs. 17–23 (373–568); and chs. 26–27 (619–660).
View online
Article
Towards a critical research methodology in journalism: Interrogating methodological assumptions
Williams, John J, Taylor & Francis Group, 257-274, Ecquid novi, 2, 25, 2004-01-01, 257-274,
Research History: Pages 257–293.
View online
Article
Barriers to Integrating Quantitative and Qualitative Research
Bryman, Alan, SAGE Publications, 8-22, Journal of mixed methods research, 1, 1, 2007-01, 8-22,
View online
Article
What Journalism Can Offer Ethnography
Harrington, Walt, Thousand Oaks, CA, SAGE Publications, 90-104, Qualitative inquiry, 1, 9, 2003-02, 90-104,
View online
Book Chapter
Towards an ethnographic approach to global media studies
Murphy, Patrick D ; Kraidy, Marwan M, Murphy, Patrick D ; Kraidy, Marwan M, Towards an ethnographic approach to global media studies, 3-20, 2003-09-18, 3-20, isbn:9780203505441,
View online
Electronic Article
Ethical Guidelines for research in the Humanities
The Norwegian National Research Ethics Committees,
View online
Book
Internationalizing media studies
Daya Kishan Thussu (redaktør), London, Routledge, XIII, 320 s., 2009, isbn:9780415455299; 9780415455305; 0415455294; 0415455308,
1-31 and 254-307. (85 pp)
Book
Global journalism research : theories, methods, findings, future
Martin Löffelholz (redaktør), Malden, Mass., Blackwell, XIV, 304 s., 2008, isbn:9781405153317; 9781405153324,
Book
International media studies
McMillin, Divya C., Malden, Mass., Blackwell, XIII, 265 s., c2007, isbn:9781405118095; 1405118091; 9781405118101; 1405118105,
Compulsory components
Lectures in GJ 303 are not compulsory, but students are encouraged to be present in order to create a conducive learning environment. The written exam and the assignment are compulsory. The concept paper is a coursework requirement and hence is compulsory (final course grade will not be given without an approved concept paper).
The course has an introductory week with intensive teaching from Monday to Friday. The remaining six weeks of the course have weekly lectures. Online connection is available for the weekly lectures, but not for the introductory week.
As part of the course, students are required to write a concept paper for a potential MA thesis project which they will embark on in the second year of the programme.
- A 4000 word written assignment (51 % of the final grade)
- A 4 hour written exam (49 % of the final grade)
1. Written assignment: All
2. Written exam: None
GJ 303-1: Research history and the globalization of media research
Research history is introduced with particular emphasis on traditions within media and communication research. The reorientation towards globalization in media research is considered.
GJ 303-2: The research process
This part of the course discusses elementary steps in research, such as planning a research project, making a research design, formulating research questions, reviewing literature, and reflecting on ethical challenges.
GJ 303-3: Methods in journalism and media research
The classic distinction between quantitative and qualitative approaches is discussed, as is the combination of the two approaches in actual research. Common approaches in journalism and media research are explored. The following methods are paid particular attention to: content analysis, discourse analysis, framing analysis, reception analysis, ethnographic method, media production studies, qualitative interview methods, survey studies, and comparative research. All methods are situated within Global Journalism research in the course, and the students are introduced to peculiar strands of research foci within the scholarship of different continents.
The course intends to prepare the student for a small-scale research project such as an MA thesis. The course offers an historic and thematic overview of common methods within media and journalism research. The student will also gain insight as to how these methods may practically be applied in a research project.
As an area of research, Global Journalism is part of journalism studies which in turn belongs to the wider field of media and communication research. Methodologies within media and communication research draw on theories from various disciplines and are rooted in both the humanities and the social sciences.
Due to the programme¿s focus on Global Journalism, research topics are likely to demand field research in foreign cultures and societies. Thus, ethnographic methods will constitute a key area of the course. The course also introduces other methods within media research, and effort is made to ensure that the student may acquire essential knowledge of a variety of research approaches. Research ethics is emphasized as a crosscutting theme throughout the course.
Knowledge
The student:
- can explain key methods within journalism and media research, both qualitative, quantitative and combined approaches
- can explain the philosophical foundation of major methodological approaches
Skills
The student:
- is able to critically assess relevant methodological approaches for a research project within journalism studies
- can evaluate potential methods for a specific research project in Global Journalism
- can reflect ethically on the choice of a research method
General competence
The student:
- is able to prepare a small-scale research project within journalism studies on a theoretical level
Social Research Methods
Bryman, Alan, Oxford, Oxford University Press, Incorporated, 2015, isbn:9780199689453,
Reading for: Research History - chapters 1-5. (120 pages) Qunatitative and Qualitative approaches Chs. 7–13 (147–306); chs. 17–23 (373–568); and chs. 26–27 (619–660).
View online
Article
Towards a critical research methodology in journalism: Interrogating methodological assumptions
Williams, John J, Taylor & Francis Group, 257-274, Ecquid novi, 2, 25, 2004-01-01, 257-274,
Research History: Pages 257–293.
View online
Article
Barriers to Integrating Quantitative and Qualitative Research
Bryman, Alan, SAGE Publications, 8-22, Journal of mixed methods research, 1, 1, 2007-01, 8-22,
View online
Article
What Journalism Can Offer Ethnography
Harrington, Walt, Thousand Oaks, CA, SAGE Publications, 90-104, Qualitative inquiry, 1, 9, 2003-02, 90-104,
View online
Book Chapter
Towards an ethnographic approach to global media studies
Murphy, Patrick D ; Kraidy, Marwan M, Murphy, Patrick D ; Kraidy, Marwan M, Towards an ethnographic approach to global media studies, 3-20, 2003-09-18, 3-20, isbn:9780203505441,
View online
Electronic Article
Ethical Guidelines for research in the Humanities
The Norwegian National Research Ethics Committees,
View online
Book
Internationalizing media studies
Daya Kishan Thussu (redaktør), London, Routledge, XIII, 320 s., 2009, isbn:9780415455299; 9780415455305; 0415455294; 0415455308,
1-31 and 254-307. (85 pp) Book
Global journalism research : theories, methods, findings, future
Martin Löffelholz (redaktør), Malden, Mass., Blackwell, XIV, 304 s., 2008, isbn:9781405153317; 9781405153324, Book
International media studies
Divya C. McMillin, Malden, Mass, Blackwell, XIII, 265, 2007, isbn:9781405118095,
Compulsory components
Lectures in GJ 303 are not compulsory, but students are encouraged to be present in order to create a conducive learning environment. The written exam and the assignment are compulsory. The concept paper is a coursework requirement and hence is compulsory (final course grade will not be given without an approved concept paper).
The course has an introductory week with intensive teaching from Monday to Friday. The remaining six weeks of the course have weekly lectures. Online connection is available for the weekly lectures, but not for the introductory week.
As part of the course, students are required to write a concept paper for a potential MA thesis project which they will embark on in the second year of the programme.
- A 4000 word written assignment entailing critical evaluation of relevant research contributions (51 % of the final grade)
- A 4 hour written exam (49 % of the final grade)
1. Written assignment: All
2. Written exam: None
GJ 303-1: Research history and the globalization of media research
Research history is introduced with particular emphasis on traditions within media and communication research. The reorientation towards globalization in media research is considered.
GJ 303-2: The research process
This part of the course discusses elementary steps in research, such as planning a research project, making a research design, formulating research questions, reviewing literature, and reflecting on ethical challenges.
GJ 303-3: Methods in journalism and media research
The classic distinction between quantitative and qualitative approaches is discussed, as is the combination of the two approaches in actual research. Common approaches in journalism and media research are explored. The following methods are paid particular attention to: content analysis, discourse analysis, framing analysis, reception analysis, ethnographic method, media production studies, qualitative interview methods, survey studies, and comparative research. All methods are situated within Global Journalism research in the course, and the students are introduced to peculiar strands of research foci within the scholarship of different continents.
The course intends to prepare the student for a small-scale research project such as an MA thesis. The course offers an historic and thematic overview of common methods within media and journalism research. The student will also gain insight as to how these methods may practically be applied in a research project.
As an area of research, Global Journalism is part of journalism studies which in turn belongs to the wider field of media and communication research. Methodologies within media and communication research draw on theories from various disciplines and are rooted in both the humanities and the social sciences.
Due to the programme¿s focus on Global Journalism, research topics are likely to demand field research in foreign cultures and societies. Thus, ethnographic methods will constitute a key area of the course. The course also introduces other methods within media research, and effort is made to ensure that the student may acquire essential knowledge of a variety of research approaches. Research ethics is emphasized as a crosscutting theme throughout the course.
Knowledge
The student:
- can explain key methods within journalism and media research, both qualitative, quantitative and combined approaches
- can explain the philosophical foundation of major methodological approaches
Skills
The student:
- is able to critically assess relevant methodological approaches for a research project within journalism studies
- can evaluate potential methods for a specific research project in Global Journalism
- can reflect ethically on the choice of a research method
General competence
The student:
- is able to prepare a small-scale research project within journalism studies on a theoretical level
Book
Social Research Methods
Bryman, Alan, Oxford, Oxford University Press, Incorporated, 2015, isbn:9780199689453,
Reading for: Research History - chapters 1-5. (120 pages) Qunatitative and Qualitative approaches Chs. 7–13 (147–306); chs. 17–23 (373–568); and chs. 26–27 (619–660).
View online
Article
Towards a critical research methodology in journalism: Interrogating methodological assumptions
Williams, John J, Taylor & Francis Group, 257-274, Ecquid novi, 2, 25, 2004-01-01, 257-274,
Research History: Pages 257–293.
View online
Article
Barriers to Integrating Quantitative and Qualitative Research
Bryman, Alan, SAGE Publications, 8-22, Journal of mixed methods research, 1, 1, 2007-01, 8-22,
View online
Article
What Journalism Can Offer Ethnography
Harrington, Walt, Thousand Oaks, CA, SAGE Publications, 90-104, Qualitative inquiry, 1, 9, 2003-02, 90-104,
View online
Book Chapter
Towards an ethnographic approach to global media studies
Murphy, Patrick D ; Kraidy, Marwan M, Murphy, Patrick D ; Kraidy, Marwan M, Towards an ethnographic approach to global media studies, 3-20, 2003-09-18, 3-20, isbn:9780203505441,
View online
Electronic Article
Ethical Guidelines for research in the Humanities
The Norwegian National Research Ethics Committees,
View online
Book
Internationalizing media studies
Daya Kishan Thussu (redaktør), London, Routledge, XIII, 320 s., 2009, isbn:9780415455299; 9780415455305; 0415455294; 0415455308,
1-31 and 254-307. (85 pp)
Book
Global journalism research : theories, methods, findings, future
Martin Löffelholz (redaktør), Malden, Mass., Blackwell, XIV, 304 s., 2008, isbn:9781405153317; 9781405153324,
Book
International media studies
Divya C. McMillin, Malden, Mass, Blackwell, XIII, 265, 2007, isbn:9781405118095,
Compulsory components
Lectures in GJ 303 are not compulsory, but students are encouraged to be present in order to create a conducive learning environment. The written exam and the assignment are compulsory. The concept paper is a coursework requirement and hence is compulsory (final course grade will not be given without an approved concept paper).
The course has an introductory week with intensive teaching from Monday to Friday. The remaining six weeks of the course have weekly lectures. Online connection is available for the weekly lectures, but not for the introductory week.
As part of the course, students are required to write a concept paper for a potential MA thesis project which they will embark on in the second year of the programme.
The assessment of GJ 303 comprises two parts:
- A 4000 word written assignment entailing critical evaluation of relevant research contributions (51 % of the final grade)
- A 4 hour written exam (49 % of the final grade)
1. Written assignment: All
2. Written exam: None
GJ 303-1: Research history and the globalization of media research
Research history is introduced with particular emphasis on traditions within media and communication research. The reorientation towards globalization in media research is considered.
GJ 303-2: The research process
This part of the course discusses elementary steps in research, such as planning a research project, making a research design, formulating research questions, reviewing literature, and reflecting on ethical challenges.
GJ 303-3: Methods in journalism and media research
The classic distinction between quantitative and qualitative approaches is discussed, as is the combination of the two approaches in actual research. Common approaches in journalism and media research are explored. The following methods are paid particular attention to: content analysis, discourse analysis, framing analysis, reception analysis, ethnographic method, media production studies, qualitative interview methods, survey studies, and comparative research. All methods are situated within Global Journalism research in the course, and the students are introduced to peculiar strands of research foci within the scholarship of different continents.
The course intends to prepare the student for a small-scale research project such as an MA thesis. The course offers an historic and thematic overview of common methods within media and journalism research. The student will also gain insight as to how these methods may practically be applied in a research project.
As an area of research, Global Journalism is part of journalism studies which in turn belongs to the wider field of media and communication research. Methodologies within media and communication research draw on theories from various disciplines and are rooted in both the humanities and the social sciences.
Due to the programme¿s focus on Global Journalism, research topics are likely to demand field research in foreign cultures and societies. Thus, ethnographic methods will constitute a key area of the course. The course also introduces other methods within media research, and effort is made to ensure that the student may acquire essential knowledge of a variety of research approaches. Research ethics is emphasized as a crosscutting theme throughout the course.
Knowledge
The student:
- can explain key methods within journalism and media research, both qualitative, quantitative and combined approaches
- can explain the philosophical foundation of major methodological approaches
Skills
The student:
- is able to critically assess relevant methodological approaches for a research project within journalism studies
- can evaluate potential methods for a specific research project in Global Journalism
- can reflect ethically on the choice of a research method
General competence
The student:
- is able to prepare a small-scale research project within journalism studies on a theoretical level
3GJ303 Research Methods (2021-2022)
Bryman. (2007). Barriers to Integrating Quantitative and Qualitative Research. Journal of mixed methods research, 1(1), 8–22. https://doi.org/10.1177/2345678906290531
Bryman. (2015). Social Research Methods. Oxford University Press, Incorporated.
Gumede. (2010). Internationalizing Media Studies: Impediments and Imperatives Daya K. Thussu (Ed.) London: Routledge. 2009. Pp. 322. ISBN 978-0-4154-5530-5 (paperback), 978-0-4154-5529-9 (hardback) and International Communication: A Reader Daya K. Thussu (Ed.) London: Routledge. 2009. Pp. 616. ISBN 978-0-4154-4456-9 (paperback), 978-0-4154-4455-2 (hardback). Ecquid novi, 31(2), 248–252. https://doi.org/10.3368/ajs.31.2.248
Harrington. (2003). What Journalism Can Offer Ethnography. Qualitative inquiry, 9(1), 90–104. https://doi.org/10.1177/1077800402239342
Lusvarghi. (2008). International Media Studies, Divya C. McMillin, Malden, MA: Blackwell Publishing. 2007. Pp. 288. ISBN 978-14-051180-95 (hardback), ISBN 978-14-051181-01 (paperback). Ecquid novi, 29(2), 235–238. https://doi.org/10.3368/ajs.29.2.235
Murphy, & Kraidy, M. M. (2003). Towards an ethnographic approach to global media studies. I Murphy & M. M. Kraidy, Global Media Studies: Ethnographic Perspectives (s. 3–20). https://doi.org/10.4324/9780203505441
Murthy. (2009). Global Journalism Research: Theories, Methods, Findings, Future Martin Loffelholz and David Weaver (Eds.) Oxford: Blackwell Publishing. 2008. Pp. 304. ISBN 978-1-4051-5332-4 (paperback). Ecquid novi, 30(2), 245–248. https://doi.org/10.3368/ajs.30.2.245
The Norwegian National Research Ethics Committees. (u.å.). Ethical Guidelines for research in the Humanities. https://www.forskningsetikk.no/en/guidelines/social-sciences-humanities-law-and-theology/guidelines-for-research-ethics-in-the-social-sciences-humanities-law-and-theology/
Williams. (2004). Towards a critical research methodology in journalism: Interrogating methodological assumptions. Ecquid novi, 25(2), 257–274. https://doi.org/10.1080/02560054.2004.9653297
Compulsory components
Lectures in GJ 303 are not compulsory, but students are encouraged to be present in order to create a conducive learning environment. The written exam and the assignment are compulsory. The concept paper is a coursework requirement and hence is compulsory (final course grade will not be given without an approved concept paper).
The course has an introductory week with intensive teaching from Monday to Friday. The remaining six weeks of the course have weekly lectures. Online connection is available for the weekly lectures, but not for the introductory week.
As part of the course, students are required to write a concept paper for a potential MA thesis project which they will embark on in the second year of the programme.
The assessment of GJ 303 comprises two parts:
- A 4000 word written assignment entailing critical evaluation of relevant research contributions (51 % of the final grade)
- A 4 hour written exam (49 % of the final grade)
1. Written assignment: All
2. Written exam: None
GJ 303¿1: General issues in media and communication research
a) Research history
Research history is introduced with particular emphasis on traditions within media and communication research.
b) Quantitative and qualitative approaches
The classic distinction between quantitative and qualitative approaches is explored, as is the combination of the two approaches in actual research.
c) Globalizing media research
This part of the course considers the reorientation towards globalization in media research.
GJ 303¿2: Methods in journalism and media research
Common approaches in journalism and media research are explored. The following methods are paid particular attention to: content analysis, discourse analysis, reception analysis, ethnographic method, media production studies, qualitative interview methods, survey studies, and comparative research. All methods are situated within Global Journalism research in the course, and the students are introduced to peculiar strands of research foci within the scholarship of different continents.
The course intends to prepare the student for a small-scale research project such as an MA thesis. The course offers an historic and thematic overview of common methods within media and journalism research. The student will also gain insight as to how these methods may practically be applied in a research project.
As an area of research, Global Journalism is part of journalism studies which in turn belongs to the wider field of media and communication research. Methodologies within media and communication research draw on theories from various disciplines and are rooted in both the humanities and the social sciences.
Due to the programme¿s focus on Global Journalism, research topics are likely to demand field research in foreign cultures and societies. Thus, ethnographic methods will constitute a key area of the course. The course also introduces other methods within media research, and effort is made to ensure that the student may acquire essential knowledge of a variety of research approaches. Research ethics is emphasized as a crosscutting theme throughout the course.
Knowledge
The student:
- can explain key methods within journalism and media research, both qualitative, quantitative and combined approaches
- can explain the philosophical foundation of major methodological approaches
Skills
The student:
- is able to critically assess relevant methodological approaches for a research project within journalism studies
- can evaluate potential methods for a specific research project in Global Journalism
General competence
The student:
- is able to prepare a small-scale research project within journalism studies on a theoretical level
- can reflect ethically on the choice of a research method and in the carrying out and reporting of the research project
GJ 303-1: General issues
a) Research history
- Bryman, Alan (2016) Social Research Methods. Oxford: Oxford University Press. Chapters 1-5 (1-120). (120 pp)
- Williams, John J. (2004) Towards a critical research methodology in journalism: Interrogating methodological assumptions. Ecquid Novi: African Journalism Studies 25(2): 257-293. (37 pp)
b) Quantitative and qualitative approaches
- Bryman, Alan (2016) Social Research Methods. Oxford: Oxford University Press. Chs. 7-13 (147-306); chs. 17-23 (373-568); and chs. 26-27 (619-660). (398 pp)
c) Globalizing media research
- Thussu, Daya K. (ed.) (2009) Internationalizing media studies. London: Routledge. 1-31 and 254-307. (85 pp)
- Löffelholz, Martin (ed.) (2008) Global Journalism research. Theories, methods, findings, future. London: Blackwell. 3-27 and 285-294. (35 pp)
GJ 303-2: Methods
- Löffelholz, Martin (ed.) (2008) Global Journalism research. Theories, methods, findings, future. London: Blackwell. 91-142. (52 pp)
Compulsory components
Lectures in GJ 303 are not compulsory, but students are encouraged to be present in order to create a fertile learning environment. The written exam and the assignment are compulsory. The draft proposal is a coursework requirement and hence is compulsory (final course grade will not be given without an accepted draft proposal).
The teaching is delivered as lectures and seminars. The lectures are organized over approximately five weeks with four lecture hours every week, totalling 20 lecture hours. The seminars are mainly student-led and last for approximately two hours each week.
As part of the course, students are required to produce a first draft proposal of a potential MA thesis project which they will embark on in semesters 3¿4.
The assessment of GJ 303 comprises two parts:
- 4000 word written assignment entailing critical evaluation of relevant research contributions (51 % of the final grade)
- 4 hour written exam (49 % of the final grade)
GJ 303¿1: General issues in media and communication research
a) Research history
Research history is introduced with particular emphasis on traditions within media and communication research.
b) Quantitative and qualitative approaches
The classic distinction between quantitative and qualitative approaches is explored, as is the combination of the two approaches in actual research.
c) Globalizing media research
This part of the course considers the reorientation towards globalization in media research.
GJ 303¿2: Methods in journalism and media research
Common approaches in journalism and media research are explored. The following methods are paid particular attention to: content analysis, discourse analysis, reception analysis, ethnographic method, media production studies, qualitative interview methods, survey studies, and comparative research. All methods are situated within Global Journalism research in the course, and the students are introduced to peculiar strands of research foci within the scholarship of different continents.
The course intends to prepare the student for a small-scale research project such as an MA thesis. The course offers an historic and thematic overview of common methods within media and journalism research. The student will also gain insight as to how these methods may practically be applied in a research project.
As an area of research, Global Journalism is part of journalism studies which in turn belongs to the wider field of media and communication research. Methodologies within media and communication research draw on theories from various disciplines and are rooted in both the humanities and the social sciences.
Due to the programme¿s focus on Global Journalism, research topics are likely to demand field research in foreign cultures and societies. Thus, ethnographic methods within the anthropological field will constitute a key area of the course. Ethnography plays a particularly prominent role within cultural studies which has achieved a significant position in journalism and media research globally.
The course also introduces other key methods within media research, and effort is made to ensure that the student may acquire essential knowledge of a variety of research approaches. Research ethics is emphasized as a crosscutting theme throughout the course.
Knowledge
The student:
- can explain key methods within journalism and media research, both qualitative, quantitative and combined approaches
- can explain the philosophical foundation of major methodological approaches
Skills
The student:
- is able to critically assess relevant methodological approaches for a research project within journalism studies
- can evaluate potential methods for a specific research project in Global Journalism
General competence
The student:
- is able to prepare a small-scale research project within journalism studies on a theoretical level
- can reflect ethically on the choice of a research method and in the carrying out and reporting of the research project
Total reading: Approx. 810 pp.
GJ 303-1: General issues in media and communication research
a) Research history
Reading:
- Bryman, Alan (2016) Social Research Methods. Oxford: Oxford University Press. Chapters 1-5 (1-120)
- Williams, John J. (2004) Towards a critical research methodology in journalism: Interrogating methodological assumptions. Ecquid Novi: African Journalism Studies 25(2): 257-293.
b) Quantitative and qualitative approaches
Reading:
- Bryman, Alan (2007) Barriers to integrating quantitative and qualitative research. Journal of Mixed Methods Research 1(1): 8-22.
- Bryman, Alan (2016) Social Research Methods. Oxford: Oxford University Press. Chs. 7-13 (147-306); chs. 17-23 (373-568); and chs. 26-27 (619-660).
c) Globalizing media research
Reading:
- Thussu, Daya K. (ed.) (2009) Internationalizing media studies. London: Routledge. (1-31 and 254-307).
- Löffelholz, Martin (ed.) (2008) Global Journalism research. Theories, methods, findings, future. London: Blackwell. (3-27 and 285-294).
GJ 303-2: Methods in journalism and media research
Reading:
- Harrington, Walt (2003) What journalism can offer ethnography. Qualitative Inquiry 9(1): 90-104.
- Löffelholz, Martin (ed.) (2008) Global Journalism research. Theories, methods, findings, future. London: Blackwell. (91-142).
- McMillin, Divya C. (2007) International media studies. London: Blackwell. (134-178).
- Murphy, Patrick D. and Marwan Kraidy (2003) Towards an ethnographic approach to global media studies. In Patrick D. Murphy and Marwan Kraidy (eds.), Global media studies: Ethnographic perspectives, 3-20. London: Routledge.
- National Committees for Research Ethics in Norway (2006) Guidelines for research ethics in the social sciences, law and the humanities. Available from https://www.etikkom.no/Aktuelt/publikasjoner/Guidelines-for-research-ethics-in-the-social-sciences-law-and-the-humanities/ (37 pp.)
Compulsory components
Lectures in GJ 303 are not compulsory, but students are encouraged to be present in order to create a fertile learning environment. The written exam and the assignment are compulsory. The draft proposal is a coursework requirement and hence is compulsory (final course grade will not be given without an accepted draft proposal).
The teaching is delivered as lectures and seminars. The lectures are organized over approximately five weeks with four lecture hours every week, totalling 20 lecture hours. The seminars are mainly student-led and last for approximately two hours each week.
As part of the course, students are required to produce a first draft proposal of a potential MA thesis project which they will embark on in semesters 3¿4.
The assessment of GJ 303 comprises two parts:
- 4000 word written assignment entailing critical evaluation of relevant research contributions (51 % of the final grade)
- 4 hour written exam (49 % of the final grade)
GJ 303¿1: General issues in media and communication research
a) Research history
Research history is introduced with particular emphasis on traditions within media and communication research.
b) Quantitative and qualitative approaches
The classic distinction between quantitative and qualitative approaches is explored, as is the combination of the two approaches in actual research.
c) Globalizing media research
This part of the course considers the reorientation towards globalization in media research.
GJ 303¿2: Methods in journalism and media research
Common approaches in journalism and media research are explored. The following methods are paid particular attention to: content analysis, discourse analysis, reception analysis, ethnographic method, media production studies, qualitative interview methods, survey studies, and comparative research. All methods are situated within Global Journalism research in the course, and the students are introduced to peculiar strands of research foci within the scholarship of different continents.
The course intends to prepare the student for a small-scale research project such as an MA thesis. The course offers an historic and thematic overview of common methods within media and journalism research. The student will also gain insight as to how these methods may practically be applied in a research project.
As an area of research, Global Journalism is part of journalism studies which in turn belongs to the wider field of media and communication research. Methodologies within media and communication research draw on theories from various disciplines and are rooted in both the humanities and the social sciences.
Due to the programme¿s focus on Global Journalism, research topics are likely to demand field research in foreign cultures and societies. Thus, ethnographic methods within the anthropological field will constitute a key area of the course. Ethnography plays a particularly prominent role within cultural studies which has achieved a significant position in journalism and media research globally.
The course also introduces other key methods within media research, and effort is made to ensure that the student may acquire essential knowledge of a variety of research approaches. Research ethics is emphasized as a crosscutting theme throughout the course.
Knowledge
The student:
- can explain key methods within journalism and media research, both qualitative, quantitative and combined approaches
- can explain the philosophical foundation of major methodological approaches
Skills
The student:
- is able to critically assess relevant methodological approaches for a research project within journalism studies
- can evaluate potential methods for a specific research project in Global Journalism
General competence
The student:
- is able to prepare a small-scale research project within journalism studies on a theoretical level
- can reflect ethically on the choice of a research method and in the carrying out and reporting of the research project
Total reading: Approx. 810 pp.
GJ 303-1: General issues in media and communication research
a) Research history
Reading:
- Bryman, Alan (2016) Social Research Methods. Oxford: Oxford University Press. Chapters 1-5 (1-120)
- Williams, John J. (2004) Towards a critical research methodology in journalism: Interrogating methodological assumptions. Ecquid Novi: African Journalism Studies 25(2): 257-293.
b) Quantitative and qualitative approaches
Reading:
- Bryman, Alan (2007) Barriers to integrating quantitative and qualitative research. Journal of Mixed Methods Research 1(1): 8-22.
- Bryman, Alan (2016) Social Research Methods. Oxford: Oxford University Press. Chs. 7-13 (147-306); chs. 17-23 (373-568); and chs. 26-27 (619-660).
c) Globalizing media research
Reading:
- Thussu, Daya K. (ed.) (2009) Internationalizing media studies. London: Routledge. (1-31 and 254-307).
- Löffelholz, Martin (ed.) (2008) Global Journalism research. Theories, methods, findings, future. London: Blackwell. (3-27 and 285-294).
GJ 303-2: Methods in journalism and media research
Reading:
- Harrington, Walt (2003) What journalism can offer ethnography. Qualitative Inquiry 9(1): 90-104.
- Löffelholz, Martin (ed.) (2008) Global Journalism research. Theories, methods, findings, future. London: Blackwell. (91-142).
- McMillin, Divya C. (2007) International media studies. London: Blackwell. (134-178).
- Murphy, Patrick D. and Marwan Kraidy (2003) Towards an ethnographic approach to global media studies. In Patrick D. Murphy and Marwan Kraidy (eds.), Global media studies: Ethnographic perspectives, 3-20. London: Routledge.
- National Committees for Research Ethics in Norway (2006) Guidelines for research ethics in the social sciences, law and the humanities. Available from https://www.etikkom.no/Aktuelt/publikasjoner/Guidelines-for-research-ethics-in-the-social-sciences-law-and-the-humanities/ (37 pp.)
Compulsory components
Lectures in GJ 303 are not compulsory, but students are encouraged to be present in order to create a fertile learning environment. The written exam and the assignment are compulsory. The draft proposal is a coursework requirement and hence is compulsory (final course grade will not be given without an accepted draft proposal).
The teaching is delivered as lectures and seminars. The lectures are organized over approximately five weeks with four lecture hours every week, totalling 20 lecture hours. The seminars are mainly student-led and last for approximately two hours each week.
As part of the course, students are required to produce a first draft proposal of a potential MA thesis project which they will embark on in semesters 3¿4.
The assessment of GJ 303 comprises two parts:
- 4000 word written assignment entailing critical evaluation of relevant research contributions (51 % of the final grade)
- 4 hour written exam (49 % of the final grade)
GJ 303¿1: General issues in media and communication research
a) Research history
Research history is introduced with particular emphasis on traditions within media and communication research.
b) Quantitative and qualitative approaches
The classic distinction between quantitative and qualitative approaches is explored, as is the combination of the two approaches in actual research.
c) Globalizing media research
This part of the course considers the reorientation towards globalization in media research.
GJ 303¿2: Methods in journalism and media research
Common approaches in journalism and media research are explored. The following methods are paid particular attention to: content analysis, discourse analysis, reception analysis, ethnographic method, media production studies, qualitative interview methods, survey studies, and comparative research. All methods are situated within Global Journalism research in the course, and the students are introduced to peculiar strands of research foci within the scholarship of different continents.
The course intends to prepare the student for a small-scale research project such as an MA thesis. The course offers an historic and thematic overview of common methods within media and journalism research. The student will also gain insight as to how these methods may practically be applied in a research project.
As an area of research, Global Journalism is part of journalism studies which in turn belongs to the wider field of media and communication research. Methodologies within media and communication research draw on theories from various disciplines and are rooted in both the humanities and the social sciences.
Due to the programme¿s focus on Global Journalism, research topics are likely to demand field research in foreign cultures and societies. Thus, ethnographic methods within the anthropological field will constitute a key area of the course. Ethnography plays a particularly prominent role within cultural studies which has achieved a significant position in journalism and media research globally.
The course also introduces other key methods within media research, and effort is made to ensure that the student may acquire essential knowledge of a variety of research approaches. Research ethics is emphasized as a crosscutting theme throughout the course.
Knowledge
The student:
- can explain key methods within journalism and media research, both qualitative, quantitative and combined approaches
- can explain the philosophical foundation of major methodological approaches
Skills
The student:
- is able to critically assess relevant methodological approaches for a research project within journalism studies
- can evaluate potential methods for a specific research project in Global Journalism
General competence
The student:
- is able to prepare a small-scale research project within journalism studies on a theoretical level
- can reflect ethically on the choice of a research method and in the carrying out and reporting of the research project
Total reading: Approx. 810 pp.
GJ 303-1: General issues in media and communication research
a) Research history
Reading:
- Bryman, Alan (2016) Social Research Methods. Oxford: Oxford University Press. Chapters 1-5 (1-120)
- Williams, John J. (2004) Towards a critical research methodology in journalism: Interrogating methodological assumptions. Ecquid Novi: African Journalism Studies 25(2): 257-293.
b) Quantitative and qualitative approaches
Reading:
- Bryman, Alan (2007) Barriers to integrating quantitative and qualitative research. Journal of Mixed Methods Research 1(1): 8-22.
- Bryman, Alan (2016) Social Research Methods. Oxford: Oxford University Press. Chs. 7-13 (147-306); chs. 17-23 (373-568); and chs. 26-27 (619-660).
c) Globalizing media research
Reading:
- Thussu, Daya K. (ed.) (2009) Internationalizing media studies. London: Routledge. (1-31 and 254-307).
- Löffelholz, Martin (ed.) (2008) Global Journalism research. Theories, methods, findings, future. London: Blackwell. (3-27 and 285-294).
GJ 303-2: Methods in journalism and media research
Reading:
- Harrington, Walt (2003) What journalism can offer ethnography. Qualitative Inquiry 9(1): 90-104.
- Löffelholz, Martin (ed.) (2008) Global Journalism research. Theories, methods, findings, future. London: Blackwell. (91-142).
- McMillin, Divya C. (2007) International media studies. London: Blackwell. (134-178).
- Murphy, Patrick D. and Marwan Kraidy (2003) Towards an ethnographic approach to global media studies. In Patrick D. Murphy and Marwan Kraidy (eds.), Global media studies: Ethnographic perspectives, 3-20. London: Routledge.
- National Committees for Research Ethics in Norway (2006) Guidelines for research ethics in the social sciences, law and the humanities. Available from https://www.etikkom.no/Aktuelt/publikasjoner/Guidelines-for-research-ethics-in-the-social-sciences-law-and-the-humanities/ (37 pp.)