3.00 Credits
This course explores the study and analysis of the various processes available for conducting a systematic investigation of a topic of interest to the communication discipline and helps the student determine the appropriate tool(s) for a particular kind of inquiry, verify data, compose the results in an organized and systematic manner, and recognize the limitations of study samples and research questions. Whether testing hypotheses or exploring, describing, or solving problems, the course in communication research methods helps students understand how research is conducted and the significance of a particular project's results. It introduces students to the methods used in the field of communication studies, including qualitative, quantitative, rhetorical, performance, and mixed-methods approaches. Students will learn key terms, ethical considerations, and the principles of data collection and analysis while applying research principles in class projects.