Researching the Public Sphere -

Methods for Content and Discourse Analysis

16-20 November 2010 at Freie Universität Berlin

 

What to expect

The Method School’s aim is to highlight the state of the art in the field and discuss which research questions can be tackled by which computer-aided content and discourse analysis. Large-n content analyses have become popular, as content data is now accessible in digital format. Some of the new approaches go beyond counting single terms in documents, and seek to understand the structure and the context of the content analysed. Several approaches have entered the stage at which it becomes possible to combine quantitative and computer-aided qualitative coding. The Method School will, therefore, offer an introduction into some of the most widely used software packages in the field, but also introduce the basics of content and discourse analysis.

Besides introductions by experienced lecturers, the programme includes intensive group work, practical sessions using traditional and new computer software and possibilities for students to bring in their own research ideas and approaches. Some common social activities in the beautiful city of Berlin will round off the programme.

 

Target Group

The Winter Method School is particularly designed for early doctoral students (first two years) with a research interest in the public sphere and no or limited prior knowledge in the field of content and discourse analysis, from all countries. In exceptional cases, graduate students will be accepted if they can demonstrate a profound interest in these research methods and have plans to use them in their PhD studies.  All applicants should be fluent in English, since Englsih will be the sole language of the event.

 

Places available: 20

 

For a draft programme please click here.