This course facilitates understanding of the fundamentals of research methodology as it is utilized in the field of communication. Emphasis is placed on the development of independent research and critical analysis of communication phenomena. The aim is to merge theory and research methodology by providing one-on-one instruction through assigned reading, research, discussion and writing.

All course requirements must be fulfilled in order to successfully pass the course.

Students must meet the attendance criteria. The student and instructor will discuss and develop a plan of action and schedule of assignments. Attendance will be based on the schedule developed in consultation with the instructor, and the student will be responsible for meeting the time requirements as per the agreed upon schedule. The student may miss one (1) scheduled meeting before before deduction from the final grade occurs, provided the student meets the criteria outlined below. Students will receive a letter grade drop from the final grade for each absence in excess of the first absence. If the student is absent, for whatever reasons, the student is responsible for obtaining and completing assignments by the due date in order to receive full credit. In general, no make-up assignments will be allowed. Make-up assignments will be allowed only in extreme circumstances and according to the following requirements for an excused absence: (a) documentation - the student must present written proof of reason within one week of missed meeting, (b) legitimacy - the reason for absence must be acceptable, such as an authorized University activity as specified in the Handbook of Operating Procedures, (c) advance notice - unless absolutely impossible, the student should contact me or leave a message in the main office in advance, and (d) prior conscientiousness of student - you must allow me the benefit of the doubt. All assignments are due according to the Schedule of Assignments. Late assignments will not be accepted. No incompletes will be given for independent study courses. Please see the Information Bulletin and the Handbook of Operating Procedures for policies regarding attendance.

Neither cheating nor plagiarism will be tolerated. Plagiarism is the use of some one else's work, ideas, quotes, etc. without due credit. Turning in an assignment for this class that was previously submitted in another class will be considered cheating. The penalty for plagiarism or cheating may include failing the assignment, failing the course, or expulsion from the University depending on the severity of the infraction. Please see the University's Student Code of Conduct for information regarding this policy.

Short Reports: There will be several exercises which will require short written reports. These assignments are designed to assist each student in the preparation of the research report.

Research Report: A formal essay is required in the course and will be due on the last scheduled meeting date prior to the final exam period. The essay should analyze a communication phenomenon, utilizing standard research procedures including reviewing the literature, specifying a hypothesis, developing a test instrument, collecting data, analyzing the data and drawing conclusions.

A       Exceptionally well-prepared completion of assignment indicating effort, individualized style, and impact expected of effective communication.

B       Unusually well-prepared completion of assignment indicating original application of course materials and individual imagination distinctly superior to average effort.

C       Satisfactory completion of assignment indicating effort normally expected of the majority of students (basic preparation, correct procedure, and disciplined technique.)

D       Unsatisfactory completion of assignment indicating technical irregularity, misperceived objectives, and methods, and unorganized effort.

F       Failure to complete assignment during the scheduled time through lack of evident effort.