T502--Research Methods

Spring Semester 2012

Section 19640

Professor       

Dr. Robert Potter

Email                

rfpotter [at] indiana [dot] edu

Class Meetings

Mondays & Wednesdays
11:15am - 12:30pm
RTV 169

Description

This course is required for Ph.D. students in the Department of Telecommunications. It may also interest those desiring an overview of basic social scientific research methods. Survey research, content analysis, experimental design, and a basic introduction to statistical tests of hypotheses will make up the bulk of course content. Students will also be introduced to the basic techniques of qualitative research methods (focus groups, participant/observation, etc.).

Course requirements will likely consist of:

• Short assignments designed to practice methodological techniques,
• A mid-term exam resembling the comprehensive/qualifying exams required of doctoral students in the department,
• A final paper where students will be expected to develop hypotheses based on their reading of the media arts & science literature and describe the methodological approaches appropriate to address them.
• A take-home statistics exam due the final week of the semester.

Required Text

There will be a required textbook for this course, although the specific title has not been selected yet. When it has, it will be communicated to the IU bookstore system. Alternatively, you may contact Dr. Potter via email for more information.

Other required readings will also likely be placed on electronic reserve.