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Microanalysis of Communication - PSY00017H

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  • Department: Psychology
  • Credit value: 20 credits
  • Credit level: H
  • Academic year of delivery: 2022-23

Module will run

Occurrence Teaching period
A Spring Term 2022-23

Module aims

Microanalysis represents not only a distinctive methodology but also a distinctive way of thinking about communication. It is based on observations of human behaviour via the detailed analysis of video/audio recordings or transcribed material. Through the use of recorded data that can be examined repeatedly, it is possible to perform the kind of highly detailed analysis of both speech and non-verbal communication that is characteristic of the microanalytic approach.

Module learning outcomes

  • Acquire a deeper understanding of a number of key processes in social interaction: communication skills training, decoding, deception, equivocation, accommodation, turn-taking and audience responses.
  • Develop a critical understanding of communication research through seminar discussion.

Module content

  • Communication Skills Training (CST): focus on medical settings.
  • Interpersonal Sensitivity: the analysis of person perception as communicative skill.
  • Deception: nonverbal cues in deception detection.
  • Equivocation: equivocation theory and its application to political interviews and beyond.
  • Communication Accommodation Theory: how people adapt their communication to others.
  • Turn-taking and interruptions: medical consultations; political discourse; "manterrupting".
  • Audience responses: applause, laughter and booing.
  • Face and facework: the role of self-presentation in communication.

Indicative assessment

Task % of module mark
Online Exam -less than 24hrs (Centrally scheduled) 100

Special assessment rules

None

Indicative reassessment

Task % of module mark
Online Exam -less than 24hrs (Centrally scheduled) 100

Module feedback

The marks on all assessed work will be provided on e-vision

These marks will be accompanied by module feedback forms which will be circulated by e-mail.

Students will meet supervisors in wk 6 in AuT, SpT and wk 9 in SuT to discuss their marks.

Indicative reading

Bull P.E. (2002). Communication under the Microscope: The Theory and Practice of Microanalysis. London: Psychology Press


The information on this page is indicative of the module that is currently on offer. The University constantly explores ways to enhance and improve its degree programmes and therefore reserves the right to make variations to the content and method of delivery of modules, and to discontinue modules, if such action is reasonably considered to be necessary. In some instances it may be appropriate for the University to notify and consult with affected students about module changes in accordance with the University's policy on the Approval of Modifications to Existing Taught Programmes of Study.