COMM 6850

Theory Construction and Deductive Reasoning

Course Description

Course information provided by the Courses of Study 2019-2020.

This course will provide extensive training in one particular way of knowing, deductive reasoning, with a main goal of gaining a deep understanding of theory with a goal of confidently operationalizing theoretical concepts in preparation for empirical test. Within that framework, any context (health, risk, media, tech, group, social influence…etc.) is welcome. The course is a good fit for any student working on a second year project with a deductive approach, students preparing a dissertation proposal, students wanting to get another study off the ground and running while in grad school, or students interested in building/advancing a theoretical perspective. Students with a focus on other approaches/ways of knowing are encouraged to join the class to gain a specific set of skills and knowledge that will broaden their perspective moving forward. The focus is on research conducted within a social scientific framework. 

When Offered Fall.

Prerequisites/Corequisites Prerequisite: COMM 6810.

• Students will be able to describe the classic and current research on theory construction.
• Students will be able to exercise thoughtful discussion, critique, and extension of current theorizing and research.
• Students will be able to refine (or initiate!) the skills required to operationalize theoretical concepts into testable variables.
• Students will select a topic of their choice within which to design a meaningful research project that advances theory.
• Students will submit a protocol to IRB and begin data collection upon approval.

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