Discourse analysis is a research method for studying written or spoken language in relation to its social context. It aims to understand how language is used in real life situations. Conducting discourse analysis means examining how language functions and how meaning is created in different social contexts.
Discourse analysis is a qualitative and interpretive method of analyzing texts. You make interpretations based on both the details of the material itself and on contextual knowledge.
There are many different approaches and techniques you can use to conduct discourse analysis, but the steps below outline the basic steps you need to follow.
Step 1: Define the research question and select the content of analysis. Step 2: Gather information and theory on the context. Step 3: Analyze the content for themes and patterns. Step 4: Review your results and draw conclusions.
It can be applied to any instance of written or oral language, as well as non-verbal aspects of communication such as tone and gestures.
SubtoDiscourse analysis is a common qualitative research method in many humanities and social science disciplines.
including linguistics, sociology, anthropology, psychology and cultural studies.