Paradigma Penelitian | Riset Media | Komunikasi Unitri

Introduction

This tutorial provides a comprehensive guide to understanding research paradigms in media studies, based on the concepts presented in the video "Paradigma Penelitian | Riset Media | Komunikasi Unitri." Understanding research paradigms is crucial for researchers as it shapes the way they approach and interpret problems. This guide will break down the key concepts and steps necessary to grasp different paradigms of research.

Step 1: Understand the Concept of Research Paradigms

• Research paradigms serve as frameworks guiding researchers in their approach to understanding reality and addressing specific issues.
• According to Guba and Lincoln (1988), a research paradigm is defined as the way researchers comprehend particular problems and the criteria they use to test and find solutions.
• Familiarize yourself with the following paradigms:
  • Positivism: Focuses on quantifiable observations and the scientific method.
  • Interpretivism: Emphasizes understanding the meaning behind social phenomena.
  • Critical Theory: Aims to critique and change societal structures.

Step 2: Identify Your Research Problem

• Start by clearly defining the research problem you want to explore.
• Consider the following questions to refine your problem statement:
  • What specific issue am I addressing?
  • Why is this issue significant in the context of media research?
  • What existing theories or literature relate to this problem?

Step 3: Choose an Appropriate Paradigm

• Based on your research problem, select a paradigm that best fits your study's goals. Consider:
  • The nature of your research question.
  • The type of data you plan to collect (qualitative vs. quantitative).
  • The theoretical framework that aligns with your perspective.

Step 4: Develop Your Research Design

• Outline your methodology according to the chosen paradigm:
  • For Positivism: Use structured surveys, experiments, or statistical analysis.
  • For Interpretivism: Conduct interviews, focus groups, or content analysis.
  • For Critical Theory: Engage in participatory research or use case studies.
• Ensure that your design allows for thorough exploration and analysis of your research problem.

Step 5: Collect and Analyze Data

• Implement your research design to gather data systematically.
• Use appropriate tools and techniques for data analysis according to your chosen paradigm:
  • Quantitative data can be analyzed using statistical methods.
  • Qualitative data can be interpreted through coding and thematic analysis.

Step 6: Present Your Findings

• Organize your results clearly and coherently, aligning them with your research objectives.
• Discuss how your findings contribute to the existing body of knowledge and address the initial research problem.
• Consider including visual aids (charts, graphs) to enhance clarity.

Conclusion

Understanding research paradigms is essential for conducting effective media research. By following these steps, you can systematically approach your research problem, select the appropriate paradigm, and design a robust study. Remember, the goal is not just to gather data but to generate insights that can inform practice and theory in media studies. As a next step, consider exploring specific methodologies within your chosen paradigm to further refine your research approach.