Digital Analysis Methods
15.0 ECTS creditsStudents develop skills in investigating research problems in media and communication studies. The focus is on the challenges of doing research in digital environments and practical questions such as the choice of analytical tools, accessibility of data, economic resources, and technological possibilities. An overarching question is how to combine several methods strategically in order to arrive at a deeper and more complex understanding of online phenomena. Students also reflect on the methodological aspects of data collection and data analysis from philosophical and historical perspectives.
The course comprises two modules:
Module 1 Methods Introduction, 5 ECTS cr
Students acquire knowledge of the steps of the research process and methodological problems in media and communication research. The module introduces different methods in relation to all stages of the research process. The emphasis is on research design and methods for collecting data and presenting results, rather than analysis. Ethical issues relevant to research and development are treated throughout. The module is based on application opportunities and practical exercises.
Module 2 Digital Research Methods 10 ECTS cr
The module introduces methods for investigating social interaction in digital environments. The focus is on accessing content (text, images, sound, films) on platforms, and measuring instruments and software designed to map and analyse social interaction in digital environments. Students develop skills in handling analytical tools, data sampling, basic statistics, network analysis, and data visualisation. The focus is on the explorative use of such approaches, with an emphasis on flexibility and adaptability in relation to shifting research perspectives and requirements. The module also provides an introduction to current methodological debates in fields such as digital methods, digital humanities, and Big Data. Instruction is in the form of lectures, workshops, seminars, and supervised group work.
The course comprises two modules:
Module 1 Methods Introduction, 5 ECTS cr
Students acquire knowledge of the steps of the research process and methodological problems in media and communication research. The module introduces different methods in relation to all stages of the research process. The emphasis is on research design and methods for collecting data and presenting results, rather than analysis. Ethical issues relevant to research and development are treated throughout. The module is based on application opportunities and practical exercises.
Module 2 Digital Research Methods 10 ECTS cr
The module introduces methods for investigating social interaction in digital environments. The focus is on accessing content (text, images, sound, films) on platforms, and measuring instruments and software designed to map and analyse social interaction in digital environments. Students develop skills in handling analytical tools, data sampling, basic statistics, network analysis, and data visualisation. The focus is on the explorative use of such approaches, with an emphasis on flexibility and adaptability in relation to shifting research perspectives and requirements. The module also provides an introduction to current methodological debates in fields such as digital methods, digital humanities, and Big Data. Instruction is in the form of lectures, workshops, seminars, and supervised group work.
Progressive specialisation:
G1F (has less than 60 credits in first‐cycle course/s as entry requirements)
Education level:
Undergraduate level
Admission requirements:
Registration on the courses MKGA91 Media Audiences in the Digital Age, 7.5 ECTS credits, MKGA92 Social Media and Social Theory, 7.5 ECTS credits, and MKGA93 Strategic Communication and Organisation Analysis, 7.5 ECTS credits, or equivalent
Selection:
Selection is usually based on your grade point average from upper secondary school or the number of credit points from previous university studies, or both.
This course is included in the following programme
- Media and Communication: Digital Media and Analysis (studied during year 2)