Research Methods and Thesis Writing

This course introduces students to the central methods of media and communication research while preparing them to develop and write their Master’s thesis. Students will build a foundation in the core concepts and theoretical assumptions of qualitative and quantitative inquiry, and will learn how to formulate and clearly articulate a research idea. From there, the course moves step by step through the research process: understanding the overall structure of a Master’s thesis, conducting and organizing a literature review, and applying key methods of data collection and analysis. Attention is given to both the principles and practical applications of qualitative and quantitative research methods, with examples drawn from, but not limited to, previous MMM theses. By the end of the course, students will be equipped with the conceptual tools and methodological skills necessary to design and carry out an original research project in their chosen area of media and communication.

By the end of this course, students should understand:

• Core definitions and theoretical assumptions underlying qualitative and quantitative approaches.
• How to develop, refine, and clearly write up a research idea or proposal.
• The overall structure of the research process and the requirements of a Master’s thesis.
• The purpose, organization, and critical function of reviewing existing scholarship.
• The key principles and practical applications of qualitative and quantitative methods.
• The most commonly used methods of data collection and analysis in previous MMM theses.

In presenza

The course is structured around lectures led by the instructor and complemented by writing workshops. Students will immediately begin developing their thesis proposals and will have the opportunity to refine their ideas through these workshops. Students must attend class for at least 60%. The instructor will not provide alternative teaching materials beyond online teaching materials presented in class and uploaded on the e-learning platform.

Assessment
The final grade for the course will be based on the following components:

• Written thesis proposal draft (2,500 words) – 70% of the final grade
• Oral presentation of the proposal (3-minute elevator pitch) – 20% of the final grade
• Class participation (minimum 60% attendance required) – 10% of the final grade

Thesis Proposal Requirements
The written draft should include:

• A description of the research context.
• A discussion of relevant academic literature (5–10 scholarly sources).
• A clear statement of the research question(s) (maximum of 5) and/or hypotheses.
• An explanation of the chosen research method and a justification for its selection.
• A properly formatted bibliography.