Course program and reading list

Semester 1 Year 2017

School: Sammy Ofer School of Communications B.A

Quantitative Research Methods

Lectures:
Dr. Moran Aliman aliman.moran@idc.ac.il
Tutors:
Mr. Amir Djalovski amird@idc.ac.il
Ms. Maayan Nagar nagar.maayan@idc.ac.il
Instructor Assistants:
Mr. Amir Djalovski amird@idc.ac.il
Ms. Maayan Nagar nagar.maayan@idc.ac.il

Course No.:
7026

Type Course :
Lecture

Course Requirements :
Exam

Weekly Hours :
4

Group Code :
171702603

Credit Points:
4

Language:
English

Prerequisites
Exclusive:
7267 - Media and Minorities
24034 - Research Methods - B.A.

Course Details
1. Introduction to the Philosophical Principles of scientific research: Acquiring knowledge
and providing an explanation for phenomenon. Goals of science and the scientific research process.
2. From research question to research hypothesis I: 7 steps of conducting research, the
construct of a research report.
3. From research question to research hypothesis II: Experimental Vs. non-experimental
research designs Theoretical and operational definitions. Formulating research hypotheses. Causality.
4. Sampling: sampling methods.
5. Measurement I: measurement levels, measurement techniques, types of measures.
6. Measurement II: reliability of the measurement.
7. Measurement II: validity of the measurement. External and internal validity.
8. Different kinds of research designs: experimental designs, quazi-experimental designs, nonexperimental designs.
9. The survey I: types of surveys, constructing and administering surveys.
10. The survey II: questionnaires, coding, coding books, and complex indices.
11. Unreactive measures: content analysis, naturalistic observation
12. Ethics & politics in research.

13. Summary and preparation for the test.

Course Goals
The course aims to provide students with the ability to understand the principles of scientific thinking
while conducting a critical examination of the basic principles of scientific research. Furthermore, the
course strives to provide students with the tools for critical reading of research and surveys and to
familiarize them with the research techniques that characterize the work of communications
researchers. Students discuss dilemmas related to all stages of research, understanding the essence of
the scientific approach to acquiring knowledge, defining research questions and designing research
frameworks that are suitable for investigating the problem. Throughout the course, there is an
emphasis on the use of examples taken from concepts and research in the field of communication.

Course Grading Method

Assignments and Requirements:

1. Attendance.
2. Students must submit lab reports and final paper during the semester.
3. Final exam.
Composition of Course grade:

10% - Two lab reports (5% each)

10% - Pop-quizzes
5% - Full attendance
75% - Final exam

Reading List
Frey, L. R., Botan, C. H. & Kreps, G. L. (2000). Investigating communication: an introduction
to research methods 2 ed. Allyn & Bacon: MA.
Wrench, J. S., Thomas-Maddox, C., Peck-Richmond, V. & McCroskey J. C. (2013). Quantitative
research methods for communication: a hand-on approach 2 ed. Oxford university press:
NY.