Class Research and Investigation Methods

The curricular unit (UC) Research and Investigation Methods aims to provide students with a solid introduction to the concepts, techniques, and stages of scientific research applied to the Social Sciences, particularly in Communication. Research methods have a wide scope of application, being applicable in various sectors and industries. This UC seeks to develop in students essential competencies to conduct authentic and reliable research. The program focuses on analytical techniques associated with the main research methods, applicable both in practical market contexts and in academic studies. At the end of the UC, students should be able to use appropriate methodological approaches, collect data accurately, analyze information rigorously, and present well-founded results, contributing to the development of relevant and well-grounded investigations.

Not applicable

Introduction to scientific research. Planning and elaborating on a research project. Research Methods. The classic stages of scientific research work. Data collection techniques. Data analysis. Interpretation of results. Research ethics. Research evaluation. Writing and communicating the results.

Problem-Based Learning (PBL). With this pedagogical approach, the program aims to engage students in meaningful learning experiences, encouraging them to face authentic and relevant current problems. Students are encouraged to apply critical thinking throughout the investigative process. This approach develops essential skills for students' academic and professional lives.

Campenhoudt, L. V., Marquet, J., & Quivy, R. (2019). Manual de Investigação em Ciências Sociais. Gradiva. Clark, T., Foster, L., Sloan, L., & Bryman, A. (2021). Bryman’s social research methods. Oxford University Press. Coutinho, C. P. (2013). Metodologia de Investigação em Ciências Sociais e Humanas: Teoria e Prática. Almedina. Feria Avila, H., Matilla González, M. ., & Mantecón Licea, S. (2020). La entrevista y la encuesta: ¿Métodos o técnicas de indagación empírica? Didáctica Y Educación, 11(3), 62–79. ISSN 2224-2643 Parija, S. C. & Kate, V. (2017). Writing and publishing a scientific research paper. Springer. Prodanov, C. C. & Freitas, E. C. (2013). Metodologia do trabalho científico: Métodos e Técnicas da Pesquisa e do Trabalho Acadêmico. Feevale. Punch, K. F. (2014). Introduction to social research: Quantitative and Qualitative Approaches. SAGE Publications Limited. Yin, R. K. (2017). Case study research and applications: Design and Methods. SAGE Publications.