The Problem with Doing Media Research

There is no shortage of problems facing media researchers today, from fake news and the impact of AI to economic constraints on creative production; but what about the problems we face in *doing* media research? At a time when the need for critical media research is so great, this event is an attempt to turn our critical eye inward: what are the problems we need to solve in order to better carry out our core mission? A shape-shifting media landscape, questions of ethics and data access, unresolved frictions in interdisciplinary research, work pressure and imposter syndrome: this, too, is just a sampling of problems that media researchers face. Crucially, these same problems face researchers of all levels, from undergraduates learning the ropes to seasoned veterans and leaders in the field.

Programme

Beginning with a short presentation of the new textbook Doing Media Research, the focus of this event will be an interactive discussion of intrinsic challenges. The audience will be asked to (anonymously or publicly) share their own experiences and perspectives, which will provide input for a panel discussion by experts from different disciplines. The event is open for all, and will be of particular interest to researchers and teachers in media studies and adjacent fields.

Programme Outline

• 15:00 Walk-in
• 15:15 Welcome and introduction
• 15:15 Interactive session / time to get creative
• 16:15 Panel & Q&A session
• 17:30 Borrel