Semiology is a research method that includes analysing the meaning of signs and codes within cultural context.

These signs can be found within written text and visual representation in the media. the task of semiology is that it uncovers the the message being conveyed.

Some sociologist use it to uncover what they believe to be an ideological message.

Problems with Semiology

It relies greatly on the researches interpretation, and therefore it could be said that it lacks validity.
It doesn't show how the audience receives the message.

Sociology of the mass media.