Teaching metatheory through research application and design

We present an engaging and practical exercise in which graduate students grapple with metatheoretical perspectives often presented in their introduction to graduate studies or communication theory courses. To expand their understanding of and engagement with the major elements of the paradigms central to our field, students work in groups to apply and compare various metatheoretical assumptions to a specific research context. The goal of this activity is to strengthen students’ grasp and understanding of these perspectives specifically in the role they hold in guiding one's research study and design. We provide various examples and directions to aid instructors in the presentation of this exercise, as such topics are often challenging from a pedagogical standpoint.

Courses: Communication Theory, Introduction to Graduate Studies.

Objectives: To aid students in grasping, understanding, and comparing the major elements of metatheoretical perspectives and assumptions through application to specific research contexts.