module specification

This module aims to provide students with the basic numeracy and digital literacy skills and methods of describing and summarising quantitative and qualitative data, to introduce students to the practice of designing, conducting and reporting research in psychology, to provide students with an understanding of basic concepts in psychological research (e.g. reliability and validity), provide students with an understanding of and experience using different ways of disseminating research findings and to develop your understanding of codes of processional practice in psychology and the ethics of psychological research. Through weekly lectures, workshops and practical’s, the module aims for you to develop numerical, analytical, practical and digital literacy skills that are relevant for progression onto level 4 BSc (Hons) Psychology. Modules aims are intended to prepare students for Level 4 research methods. Specifically, you will be: (1) introduced to research design in psychology; (2) introduced to basic quantitative concepts; (3) introduced to qualitative research; (4) starting to examine research ethics applied to psychology; and (5) exploring skills relating to reporting and disseminating psychological research.

The module will provide students with basic numeracy skills an understanding of, and ability to conduct, basic descriptive statistics.  LO1
The syllabus includes an introduction to the nature and aims of different types of psychological research, including different methods of collecting data. LO3
The module facilitates students to actively conduct basic psychological studies, analyse data, and present findings via different mediums. LOs 4,5
Throughout the module, students will engage with and develop understanding of codes of professional practice in psychology and the importance of ethics in psychological research. LO5
To acquire critical appreciation through in-session activities, formative/summative assessment and self-directed learning activities, reflect on and critically appreciate the social justice context within which all psychological research is conducted. LO6

The module is delivered through a combination of group and individual activities which will take place within a framework of lectures, seminars, workshops, and practical sessions. Supplementary guided learning via weblearn and self-managed private study will be provided when appropriate. Students will receive different types of feedback from formative and summative assessments to facilitate learning and reflection on their understanding and progress. The blended learning approach will be aligned with ongoing strategic emphases. Reflective learning will be embedded throughout formal contact teaching time, formative assessment and within summative assessment.

On successful completion of this module students will be able to:
(1) conduct basic numerical and thematic analysis
(2) formulate core basic research questions and hypotheses
(3) design and conduct psychological research using different methods
(4) analyse, summarise and present research findings in different ways
(5) be aware of codes of professional practice in psychology and of ethics in psychological research
(6) develop students’ understanding of how issues around identity, and a broader social justice context surround research methods used in psychology

Assessment instruments closely follow the focus and emphasis of the module. Learning about research methods for psychology involves learning about distinctive methods of data collection and data analysis that follow from particular ontological/epistemological starting points. Learning also involves understanding contextual issues including ethical and pragmatic considerations around research methods including a social justice understanding applied to research methods. Part of learning also involves understanding conventions that exist within research methods as applied to psychological research (e.g. report writing). In line with these learning aspects, accordingly, the two coursework assessment elements will develop foundational understanding of quantitative and qualitative methods of data collection and analysis. The first coursework assessment element will be a partial quantitative research report (90% of component mark), including a reflective statement concerning personal experiences/background linked to the research and methods used (10% of component mark) (1200 words). The second coursework assessment element will be a partial qualitative research report (90% of component mark), including a reflective statement concerning personal experiences/background linked to the research and methods used (10% of component mark) (1200 words). A third assessment component (a short answer exam) will address additional learning outcomes from across the module. Students must obtain a minimum aggregate grade of 40% across the three summative assessments to pass the module.

Core and additional reading lists on the online reading system are available here:
https://tinyurl.com/4kk9t9dx