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CCT109 Contemporary Communication Technologies: Mastering Your Research Paper on Algorithms and Knowledge

Struggling with your CCT109 research paper? This tutorial breaks down how to approach the algorithms and knowledge prompt, with tips on using scholarly sources, structuring your argument, and connecting course concepts to real-world examples like AI in search and social media.

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Introduction: Navigating the CCT109 Research Paper

Welcome to your guide for the CCT109 Contemporary Communication Technologies research paper. This assignment is your chance to dive deep into how digital media shape our world. Whether you choose the surveillance, digital labor, or algorithms prompt, success requires careful planning, strong sources, and a clear argument. In this tutorial, we'll focus on Question #3 about algorithms and knowledge, but the strategies apply to any topic.

As of June 2026, algorithmic systems are more pervasive than ever. From AI-powered search engines to recommendation algorithms on TikTok and YouTube, these systems mediate what we know and how we make decisions. Understanding their social impact is crucial for your paper.

Understanding the Assignment Requirements

Your paper must be 5 pages (1250-1750 words), using APA format with a cover page and reference list. You need at least 4 scholarly sources from the provided bibliography. For the algorithms prompt, key scholars include Bucher, Crawford, Gillespie, and Masuhara. Your job is to take a position on whether algorithms have improved or worsened public access to knowledge and information.

Start by reading the prompt carefully: "What do scholars mean when they discuss the social impact of human judgement being replaced by these forms of machinic judgement? How do algorithms digitally mediate public knowledge, online discourse, and decision making? Have algorithmic processes improved or worsened how ordinary people access knowledge and information?"

Your thesis should answer these questions. For example: "While algorithms increase the speed and volume of information, they often narrow public discourse by prioritizing engagement over accuracy, ultimately worsening access to diverse knowledge."

Step 1: Deconstructing the Essay Prompt

Break the prompt into three parts:

  1. Social impact of replacing human judgement – Discuss concepts like algorithmic power, invisibility (Bucher), and agonistic publics (Crawford).
  2. How algorithms mediate knowledge and discourse – Explore relevance algorithms (Gillespie) and their role in shaping public debate.
  3. Your position on improvement or worsening – Use evidence from your sources and real-world examples to argue your case.

Your outline should have a clear introduction, body paragraphs addressing each part, and a conclusion that reinforces your thesis.

Step 2: Engaging with Scholarly Sources

Your four required sources are:

  • Bucher (2012) – Algorithmic power and the threat of invisibility on Facebook
  • Crawford (2016) – Can an algorithm be agonistic? Ten scenes from life in calculated publics
  • Gillespie (2014) – The relevance of algorithms
  • Masuhara (2017) – Artificial intelligence and adjudication

Read each with your prompt in mind. For Bucher, note how algorithms create hierarchies of visibility, affecting what users see. Crawford questions whether algorithms can support democratic debate. Gillespie explains how platforms decide what is relevant. Masuhara examines AI in legal decision-making, raising issues of fairness and transparency.

Take notes on key quotes and arguments that support your position. For example, if you argue algorithms worsen knowledge access, you might use Bucher's concept of "threat of invisibility" to show how minority viewpoints get suppressed.

Step 3: Building Your Argument

Your paper must take a position. Avoid being neutral. Use evidence to back your claim. Here's a sample structure:

Introduction

Hook: Start with a timely example, like how AI-generated search results in 2026 sometimes prioritize sponsored content over verified sources. Introduce the debate: algorithms promise efficiency but risk narrowing our worldview. State your thesis clearly.

Body Paragraph 1: The Social Impact of Machinic Judgement

Define machinic judgement. Use Bucher to explain how algorithms exercise power by determining what is visible. Connect to real-world: TikTok's For You Page in 2026 uses AI to predict interests, but can create echo chambers. Discuss the trade-off between personalization and diversity.

Body Paragraph 2: Algorithms Mediating Public Knowledge

Use Gillespie to explain the concept of "relevance." Algorithms don't just find information; they shape what counts as important. Example: Google's search algorithm in 2026 may rank sensational news higher due to engagement metrics, affecting public discourse. Crawford's idea of "calculated publics" shows how algorithms structure online debate.

Body Paragraph 3: Improvement or Worsening?

Present your evidence. If arguing worsening, discuss how algorithmic curation limits exposure to opposing views. Use Masuhara on AI in adjudication to show risks of bias. Address counterarguments: algorithms can surface niche knowledge quickly. Rebut by noting that speed doesn't equal quality. Conclude with your position.

Conclusion

Summarize your main points. Restate thesis in light of evidence. Suggest implications: as AI becomes more integrated into education and news, we need critical literacy. End with a call for transparency and human oversight.

Step 4: Using Real-World Examples (2026 Edition)

To make your paper timely, reference current trends. In June 2026, several developments relate to algorithms and knowledge:

  • AI in Education: Many universities use AI grading tools. Discuss how algorithmic judgement affects student feedback and learning outcomes.
  • Social Media Algorithms: TikTok's algorithm continues to drive viral trends, but also spreads misinformation. Use a recent example like a health hoax that gained traction.
  • Search Engines: Google's AI overviews now summarize search results. Critics say they oversimplify complex topics, reducing users' incentive to click through to original sources.

Cite these examples with APA in-text citations and include them in your reference list if you use news articles or reports.

Step 5: Writing and Revising

First, write a draft outline (750-900 words) as required. Your TA will provide feedback. Use that to expand into the full paper. Revise for clarity, argument strength, and APA formatting. Remember:

  • Use 12 pt Times New Roman, double-spaced.
  • Include a cover page with title, your name, course, and date.
  • Cite all sources in-text and in a reference list.
  • Avoid plagiarism by paraphrasing and citing properly.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

  • Not taking a position: Your paper must argue one side. Don't just summarize sources.
  • Using non-scholarly sources as main evidence: Stick to the four required sources for your core argument.
  • Ignoring the prompt: Answer all parts of the question.
  • Weak thesis: Make it specific and debatable.

Conclusion: Your Roadmap to Success

The CCT109 research paper is challenging but rewarding. By following this tutorial, you can craft a well-argued paper that demonstrates your understanding of contemporary communication technologies. Focus on the algorithms prompt, engage deeply with your sources, and connect to real-world examples. Good luck!

Remember: This tutorial is for guidance only. Do not copy it. Use it to inspire your own original work. For further help, consult your TA or the university writing center.