Comm 430: Power, Discourse and Social Identity

Dr. Rob recommends that you meet with Allison Carr,  the Communication & Media Studies Librarian. 

• Schedule an appointment here

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Please see the complete instructions in Cougar Courses.

This final paper requires you to conduct an in-depth autoethnographic exploration of a chosen topic related to power, discourse, and identity. Students are encouraged to submit research papers that, in some way, examine how communication facilitates resistance, fosters resilience, and promotes social justice. You will use your personal experiences to examine these concepts and connect them to broader social and cultural issues within/through/against your research topic. The paper should be 20-24 pages in length, including a reference list, title page, and 200-word abstract. The student must have at least 10 APA citations in their reference list and in-text. The 24-pages is the maximum number of pages for this assignment with strict penalties for going over this limit. Please read the following autoethnography guide (linked in Canvas) to help you navigate this method of communication research, and please consider looking at this autoethnography ethics guide (linked in Canvas) to help you choose your topic and learn best ethical practices to consider.

Suggested Format:

• Introduction: Clearly state your research question and provide a brief overview of your autoethnographic approach. (2 pages).
• Literature Review: Conduct a thorough review of relevant academic literature, identifying key theoretical concepts and research findings. (4 pages).
• Methodology: Describe your autoethnographic methodology, including how you collected and analyzed data (e.g., personal reflections, interviews, observations). (1 -2 pages).

• Findings: Present your key findings, using evidence from your personal experiences and the literature to support your arguments. (3-4 pages.)

• Analysis: Analyze your findings in relation to the theoretical concepts you have discussed. (3 - 4 pages).
• Conclusion: Summarize your main findings and discuss the implications of your research. (2 pages).
• Reference List: Include a complete list of all cited sources in APA format. (2 pages).