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The Challenges of Replicating Volatile Platform-Data Studies: Replicating Schatto-Eckrodt et al. (2020)

Author

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  • Philipp Knöpfle

    (Department of Media and Communication, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, Germany)

  • Tim Schatto-Eckrodt

    (Department of Communication and Journalism Studies, Hamburg University, Germany)

Abstract

Replication studies in computational communication science (CCS) play a vital role in upholding research validity, ensuring reliability, and promoting transparency. However, conducting such studies in CCS often proves challenging due to the data environments’ dynamic nature and the complexities surrounding data and software sharing. To shed light on these challenges, we examine the replication process with CCS studies by computationally reproducing and replicating Schatto-Eckrodt et al.’s (2020) computational analysis of the X (formerly Twitter) debate about the term “gaming disorder” being added to the International Classification of Diseases 11. Our results indicate a reproduction success rate of 88.46% of the original findings. Replicating the analysis presents several obstacles, particularly in data access and availability. Five years after the original data collection, we were able to recollect only 55.08% of the initial sample, primarily due to user and platform activities, including account deletions, user suspensions, and privacy settings. Our reproduction and replication efforts revealed intricate challenges in conducting CCS research, particularly concerning data access and third-party platforms. To enhance replication in CCS, we emphasize the crucial role of data sharing, increased transparency, extensive documentation, and regulatory processes. Thus, our analysis underscores replications’ critical role in enhancing CCS research validity and reliability.

Suggested Citation

  • Philipp Knöpfle & Tim Schatto-Eckrodt, 2024. "The Challenges of Replicating Volatile Platform-Data Studies: Replicating Schatto-Eckrodt et al. (2020)," Media and Communication, Cogitatio Press, vol. 12.
    • Handle: RePEc:cog:meanco:v12:y:2024:a:7789
    DOI: 10.17645/mac.7789
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Dreber, Anna & Johannesson, Magnus, 2023. "A framework for evaluating reproducibility and replicability in economics," Ruhr Economic Papers 1055, RWI - Leibniz-Institut für Wirtschaftsforschung, Ruhr-University Bochum, TU Dortmund University, University of Duisburg-Essen.
    2. Tim Schatto-Eckrodt & Robin Janzik & Felix Reer & Svenja Boberg & Thorsten Quandt, 2020. "A Computational Approach to Analyzing the Twitter Debate on Gaming Disorder," Media and Communication, Cogitatio Press, vol. 8(3), pages 205-218.
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