Chapter 1 - Science and Research

1. One advantage of scientific research is that it is self-correcting.  An example of this in the text is the brief discussion of the cause and treatment of stomach ulcers.  What ideas, concepts, beliefs, or theories have changed in the mass media in the past 50 years because of scientific research?

2. Consult a few recent issues of the Journal of Broadcasting and Electronic Media, Journalism and Mass Communication Quarterly, or Public Opinion Quarterly. What topics of investigation seem to be in fashion today? Are there any trends? What types of analysis are used in these articles?

3. Find an article in a recent mass media journal and analyze it according to the sources of Internal Validity discussed in Chapter 1.  Did you find any potential problems with the study?

4. We often include a question on exams that says: "You have probably studied for several questions that weren't included on this exam.  Here is your opportunity to earn something for your hard work.  Write your own question that is relevant to the material covered in this exam, and then answer it.  You will receive a maximum of 10 points—5 points for the question and 5 points for your answer."

We can't give you points for an exam, but we can offer you an opportunity to contribute to the questions and exercises for this chapter.  First, you need to know that Mass Media Research: An Introduction is used in many schools, colleges, and universities in many countries around the world.  The text is also translated into at least six other languages.  This means that many people around the world will see your question and your name (if you choose to include it).  So . . . if you thought of a question or exercise for this chapter that you would like the authors to include, send it to us and we will add it to this page.  Here are the rules:

-Write a question or exercise relevant to this chapter.  Include your name and affiliation (school, business, etc.).  If you don't want your name to be seen, sign "Anonymous."

-Please include the name of your instructor/teacher/professor so we can include it with your question/exercise.

-Your question/exercise, if appropriate, will be included on this page.

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Questions/Exercises Submitted by Readers

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