In 2025, the ECREA sub-committee for Methods is organising a series of workshops on different methods, tools and designs for junior researchers and PhD candidates. The sessions will include: refining a research project, designing a suitable methodological approach, research tools, research ethics, analysing quantitative research data, analysing qualitative research data, and AI. The sessions will be held online and will generally last between 90-120 min, hosted by senior researchers and experts in the respective fields.
Workshop 1: Friday 11 April 2025, 14:00 (CET) Refining the Research Project (1h 30 min)
This workshop focuses on the crucial process of refining a research topic and developing well-structured research questions. Participants will explore strategies for searching existing literature and narrowing down their research focus to ensure clarity and feasibility. Through guided discussions and practical exercises, they will examine examples of research questions and engage in formulating both qualitative questions and quantitative research hypotheses. This session is aimed at members who are in early stages of their doctoral study/research journey and will help lay the foundation for forming a coherent research design.
If you would like to attend this workshop, please fill out the form HERE. Future sessions will be communicated in the coming weeks.
Workshop 2 – May 9 2025, 14:00 (CET) Designing a Suitable Methodological Approach (1h 30mins) – 9th May 2pm CET
Lecturer: Dr Herminder Kaur, Senior Lecturer in Digital Sociology in the Department of Criminology and Sociology at Middlesex University, London Building on the previous session, this workshop introduces participants to key areas they need to consider to determine the most suitable methodological approach for investigating their research questions. Through interactive discussions and activities, attendees will explore traditional qualitative and quantitative research methods, as well as innovative approaches emerging in media and communication studies. By critically engaging with different methodologies, participants will gain a deeper understanding of how to align their research design with the objectives of their study.
If you would like to attend this workshop, please fill out the form HERE. Future sessions will be communicated in the coming weeks.
Workshop 3 – Designing Research Tools, 23rd May 2pm CET
Whether conducting quantitative or qualitative primary research, you will likely develop research tools such as surveys, interview guides, or materials that facilitate data generation. If using a mixed-methods approach, you may need to create a combination of these tools. In this session, you will engage in designing quantitative survey questions and explore software options for creating and distributing surveys online. Additionally, you will be introduced to different types of interview questions and learn how to structure them effectively to gather rich, in-depth data.
Workshop 4 – Research ethics (1h 30mins), 30th May 2pm CET
This workshop provides a comprehensive introduction to ethical considerations in research, ensuring participants understand the principles of conducting responsible and ethical studies. Key topics include informed consent, data protection, confidentiality, and avoiding bias. Participants will explore real-world ethical dilemmas and discuss strategies for addressing challenges in their own research. The session will also cover institutional ethical approval processes and the importance of maintaining integrity throughout the research journey. Through case studies and interactive discussions, attendees will develop a strong ethical foundation for their projects.
