Discussion:
WRITTEN ANALYSIS: The paper should be at least 12 pages in length using MLA or APA styles (with footnotes or references.) Thoroughness of your research, the quality of your ideas, the degree of insight you bring to your topic, correct grammar and composition will be criteria for grading. The paper is due December 2nd. Late papers will be penalized one grade per class period until the paper is turned in. Possible paper topics include:
(A) Literature review and observational study: Summarize a body of literature in one of the many areas of communication (nonverbal, persuasion, symbolic convergence, etc.) From that body of literature, create a hypothesis, a quasi-experimental study to test your hypothesis, and a discussion section analyzing your results. Research methodologies will be discussed during the third week of the semester.
(B) Literature review and case study. Choose an area of research (e.g. agenda setting, verbal and nonverbal indicators of deception, territoriality, cultivation theory, etc.) and summarize the body of research in detail. Apply that research to a media event, television program/series, news story/series, advertisement, or public address.