Communication Research Paradigms: Post-positivism, Interpretivism, and Critical Approaches

What does ontology question in communication study?

Ontology questions the nature of reality and what is considered real.

What is epistemology in the context of communication?

Epistemology examines how knowledge is constructed and the nature of reality.

What is a research paradigm?

A research paradigm is a framework for studying communication phenomena.

Define post-positivism.

Post-positivism seeks to continue and refine positivism, acknowledging that objective truth is unattainable but can be approached through falsification.

What is positivism characterized by?

Positivism is deterministic, focused on cause and effect, and emphasizes objective, empirical measurement.

What are common sampling methods in research?

Common sampling methods include convenience sampling, self-selection, and self-reporting.

What is interpretivism?

Interpretivism adopts a constructivist orientation, aiming to understand how participants create and negotiate meaning in natural settings.

What methods are commonly used in interpretive research?

Common methods include interviews, focus groups, participant observation, and ethnographic approaches.

What is subject intentionality in communication?

Subject intentionality refers to the purpose and meaning behind a subject's communication.

What ethical considerations are important in communication research?

Important ethical considerations include voluntary participation, no harm to participants, anonymity, confidentiality, and debriefing after deception.

What does critical approaches in communication study focus on?

Critical approaches focus on how power relations affect our understanding of reality and aim to reduce oppression.

Define ideology in the context of communication.

Ideology is a system of ideas and ideals that does not accurately reflect reality.

What is hegemony in communication studies?

Hegemony refers to the dominance of certain ideas as common sense, influencing perceptions of normalcy.

What methods are used in critical communication research?

Methods include textual analysis, cultural studies, and applying critical lenses such as feminist or critical race theory.

What is the significance of rhetorical approaches in communication?

Rhetorical approaches focus on how communication coordinates social action and the relationship between theory, criticism, and practice.

What is the difference between deductive and inductive approaches?

Deductive approaches prioritize theory, while inductive approaches prioritize observation.

What is the goal of research in communication?

The goal is to determine the object of study, research goals, and appropriate tools for data analysis.

What does Karl Popper's quote about knowledge imply?

Popper's quote suggests that while our knowledge is finite, our ignorance is infinite.

What is global counter flow in media regulation?

Global counter flow refers to how countries regulate media to prevent cultural imperialism and promote their own interests.

What is the French cultural exception?

The French cultural exception is a mechanism to subsidize and protect French media production.

How can imported media be interpreted?

Imported media can be localized and interpreted in various ways based on cultural context.

What are the concerns of post-positivist research?

Concerns include sample size, source, statistical significance, and avoiding confirmation bias.

What are the concerns of interpretivist research?

Concerns include subject-based communication, thick description, validity checks, and ethics clearance.

What is the role of the researcher in critical approaches?

The researcher is part of the inquiry and engages in critique to aid the oppressed.