PY7223 - Introductory Research Methods for Psychology (2024/25)
| Module specification | Module approved to run in 2024/25 | ||||||||||||||||
| Module title | Introductory Research Methods for Psychology | ||||||||||||||||
| Module level | Masters (07) | ||||||||||||||||
| Credit rating for module | 20 | ||||||||||||||||
| School | School of Social Sciences and Professions | ||||||||||||||||
| Total study hours | 200 | ||||||||||||||||
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| Running in 2024/25(Please note that module timeslots are subject to change) |
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Module summary
The aim of this module is to introduce you to a wide range of psychological methods of investigation. You will learn how to conduct psychological research and to critically evaluate the research findings. You will learn how to ethically collect and analyse both quantitative and qualitative data using a range of descriptive and inferential statistics; conduct and interpret data using appropriate methods and software as appropriate; and report empirical research findings in different ways in line with professional publication standards and the principles of open science. The module will thus enhance your knowledge and transferable skills necessary for further study in psychology and will provide a firm foundation for your progression to PY7224 Advanced Research Methods and PY7P11 Dissertation.
Syllabus
Topics covered in the module will be drawn from: basic concepts in quantitative and qualitative research in psychology; preparing research projects; research design; data collection, analysis, and interpretation; descriptive and inferential statistics; textual analysis; summarising and presenting qualitative and quantitative research findings; report writing publication standards in psychology; research ethics and open science.
Balance of independent study and scheduled teaching activity
The learning objectives will be achieved through a combination of lectures, interactive
workshops, seminars, supplementary guided web-based learning, and self-managed
independent study. You will be encouraged to reflect on your learning throughout the
module and take responsibility for identifying gaps in your learning. Formative assessments will consist of multiple-choice questions and discussion of the answers in class. In addition, small-group activities will provide the opportunity for peer and instructor feedback.
Learning outcomes
On successful completion of this module, you will be able to:
demonstrate knowledge and understanding of psychological research methods including qualitative and quantitative approaches, as well as ethical considerations and principles of open science.
conduct qualitative and quantitative psychological research, analyse data using appropriate methods, interpret research findings, and draw appropriate conclusions.
communicate research findings in line with professional publication standards.