Available in 2024
Course code

CMNS2700

Units

10 units

Level

2000 level

Course handbook

Description

This course explores how to research as a media professional. Students will learn advanced principles and concepts in communication research and methods, big data analysis, social media analytics and apply research techniques such as qualitative and quantitative, primary and secondary sources, ethics, reliability and validity to address contemporary industry research issues and problems. Students will undertake field work and market research, operating within ethical and legal frameworks, to develop market research reports appropriate for the media and communication industries.


Availability2024 Course Timetables

Newcastle City Precinct

  • Semester 2 - 2024

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of the course students will be able to:

1. Apply research concepts and methods;

2. Assess the strengths and weaknesses in different research approaches for different media and communication industries;

3. Implement big data and social media analytics in media reports;

4. Propose, conduct and report a research project in teams


Content

Topics will include:

  • Concepts and assumptions in media practice research
  • Researching as media professionals
  • Defining problems and planning research
  • Ethical and legal issues in data collection and analysis
  • Undertaking market research
  • Advanced qualitative and quantitative methods
  • Big data and social media analytics
  • Undertaking field work
  • Strategies for analysing data
  • Writing research reports

Assumed knowledge

60 units at 1000 level including CMNS1234 Media and Communication Concepts.


Assessment items

Proposal / Plan: Project Planning and Analysis

Professional Task: Data Analysis

Project: Analysis Project

Case Study / Problem Based Learning: Case Study Report


Contact hours

Semester 2 - 2024 - Newcastle City Precinct

Lecture-1
  • Online 1 hour(s) per week(s) for 10 week(s) starting in week 1
Tutorial-1
  • Face to Face On Campus 2 hour(s) per week(s) for 13 week(s) starting in week 1

Course outline