| Research Methods for
Journalists Editorial D22 Spring, 1998 |
Professor Peter Miller 14 Harris Hall 847-491-5835 p-miller@nwu.edu |
Warren Cohen Midwest Correspondent U.S.News & World Report 312-540-1231 wjcohen@mindspring.com |
Overview
This course is about evaluating and executing social science research. Journalism professionals increasingly need to analyze, interpret and use research methods employed in the social sciences. Knowledge of these methods is increasingly important for informing audiences about the findings of research in areas such as crime, political campaigns, welfare reform, government operations, race relations and many others. Journalists must decipher and judge claims based upon social science research. In addition, journalists are frequently called upon -- as in the case of "civic journalism" and computer assisted reporting projects -- to generate original research as part of news coverage. Participants in this course will learn some of the fundamental lessons needed to fulfill these responsibilities well.
The course involves reading, discussion and exercises. The first part of the term is devoted to learning the language and logic of research, including research ethics, study design, measurement and data gathering, sampling and statistical inference, and the use and misuse of statistics. In addition, during this period students will learn and practice the use of spreadsheet software to analyze data. Among other things, these lessons will prepare students for participation in the Civic Journalism conference hosted by Medill on May 11-12. The last three meetings of the term are devoted to producing and discussing a computer-assisted reporting project.
Readings
Three books may be purchased at Student Book Exchange on Sherman Avenue:
Traugott and Lavrakas provide a substantial amount of information about the conduct and reporting of election polls in a straightforward question-and-answer format. Czaja and Blair offer a detailed primer on how to conduct a survey, with special attention to the decision points that must be faced by all survey designers. Moore gives a behind-the-scenes look at some of the most prominent pollsters and the nature of their business. The book puts a more "human face" on the conduct of survey research.
In addition to these books, course participants will receive photocopied material from various sources to fill in gaps left by these sources.
Readings must be completed in advance of the class for which they are assigned.
Evaluation
Grading will be based on a final examination (30%) to be administered on June 8, a 5-page analysis of research in a "civic journalism" project (20%), due on May 18, a computer-assisted reporting project using spreadsheet software (20%), due on June 1, weekly participation (10%) and performance on quizzes and homework (20%).
The final examination will consist of short answer questions covering both reading and seminar presentations. Quizzes will be administered periodically during the term to measure participants' mastery of the course material. Homework exercises will be assigned to develop proficiency in locating research materials, in analyzing research presentations, and in using spreadsheet software. Participation will be assessed with reference both to the amount and quality of discussion. Instructions for the analysis of a "civic journalism" project and the computer-assisted reporting project will be distributed at an appropriate time.
Instructors
Peter Miller is Associate Professor of Communication Studies and Journalism. He is editor of the Poll Review section of Public Opinion Quarterly, and past Standards Chair of the American Association for Public Opinion Research. His publications include articles on survey methodology, the public opinion research industry and mass communication effects.
Warren Cohen is the Midwest correspondent for U.S.News & World Report. He specializes in politics, business, economics, and public policy. Cohen has also worked on a variety of computer-assisted reports, focusing on subjects such as banking, telecommunications, regional and state economies and public finance. Cohen is a member of Investigative, Reporters and Editors and is a frequent speaker at conferences about computer assisted reporting and the Internet.
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