Researching Communications 1

Code	School	Level	Credits	Semesters
INCM2026	School of International Communications	2	10	Autumn China

Code: INCM2026
School: School of International Communications
Level: 2
Credits: 10
Semesters: Autumn China

Summary

This module will introduce you to the key research issues and approaches at stake in the study of culture, film and media. We will explore a range of methodological approaches towards the study of communication, culture and the media. The module will explore in particular the key distinction between quantitative and qualitative research, the demands of historical research, the situation of the researcher in relation to his/her object of research, and the definition of a "field" of research within a "discipline" of study. In particular, it will distinguish communications, media and cultural studies from sociology and political science.

Please note: This module is assessed at the end of Autumn semester. First sit/ Re-sit exams are scheduled normally in the summer and can take the same form as the missing/ failed component of the assessment (exam, essay etc.) or other form, as decided by the School.

Target Students

BA students in International Communications and related programmes at the University of Nottingham Ningbo China. There is a limited number of places on this module. Students are reminded that enrolments which are not agreed by the Offering School in advance may be cancelled without notice.

Classes

One 1-hour seminar each week for 10 weeks
One 1-hour lecture each week for 10 weeks

Assessment

100% Coursework 1: 2000 words

Assessed by end of autumn semester

Educational Aims

To familiarize students with the wide range of interdisciplinary approaches to knowledge production in the field of communications, culture and media study.To encourage students to make informed decisions regarding the appropriateness of particular methodological approaches to concrete contexts of communications, culture and media study

Learning Outcomes

understand the varied and interdisciplinary methods used in researching communications, culture and media and appreciate the distinction between qualitative and quantitative methods

understand the uncertainties and limits of particular methodologies and theoretical approaches;

understand the pragmatics of research processes;

Conveners

Dr Corey Schultz

View in Curriculum Catalogue

Last updated 09/01/2025.