Approches qualitatives en information et communication

Teacher(s)

Zecchinon Pauline;

Language

French

Content

The course aims to situate empirical and qualitative approaches within the field of media and communication studies, and to highlight their relevance and value. It offers an in-depth and explicit presentation of how to conduct empirical research in this field, covering exploration, research questions, and problematization, through methods and techniques specific to fieldwork (documenting, photographing, describing, conducting interviews, etc.). The objective is both to interpret and report findings, while fostering epistemological and critical reflection.
The step-by-step implementation of a field research project enables students to gain practical mastery of the main methods introduced in the course.

Teaching methods

The aim of the course is to introduce students to the empirical research approach in media and communication studies, enabling them to apply it rigorously and with full understanding. The course combines theoretical foundations with practical application.
It is structured in two complementary parts:

• A first, theoretical component, based on the textbook Méthodes empiriques de recherche en information et communication (2nd edition, Gérard Derèze, De Boeck Supérieur, 2019). Reading and understanding this textbook is essential for passing the course.
  
• A second, practical component, focused on conducting an empirical research project. This requires strong personal engagement from each student. The main stages of the research are defined and supervised by the instructor and/or teaching assistants.
  

Evaluation methods

Students are assessed in two ways: students are assessed in two ways: the theoretical component through a session exam (Part A: 50% of the final grade) and a compulsory practical assignment (Part B: 50% of the final grade).. Passing both Part A and Part B is essential to demonstrate the skills and knowledge defined in the learning outcomes of the course unit (UE).
The final grade is the arithmetic average of the grades obtained for Parts A and B, provided that both components are passed individually. Failing either Part A or Part B automatically results in a fail for the entire course unit, as both are required to validate the expected learning outcomes.
Students who fail the course only need to retake the part(s) they did not pass in the first session. In case of failure in the multiple-choice tests (Part A), the student will be required to take a written exam in the second session. In case of failure in the practical assignment (Part B), the student will have to submit an individual assignment in the second session.

Other information

The assignments required for this course must be completed without the assistance of artificial intelligence, including help with wording or formulation.

Online resources

All information regarding course materials, the schedule, practical sessions, multiple-choice tests, assessment methods, and more will be posted on the course’s Moodle page as the semester progresses.

Teaching materials

• Méthodes empiriques de recherche en information et communication – 2ème édition– (Gérard Derèze, Louvain-la-Neuve, De Boeck Supérieur, 2019)

Faculty or entity

> ESPO