Undergraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2009-2010 (archived)
Module PSYS3111: ADVANCED RESEARCH METHODS FOR APPLIED PSYCHOLOGY
Department: Psychology (Applied Psychology) [Queen's Campus, Stockton]
PSYS3111: ADVANCED RESEARCH METHODS FOR APPLIED PSYCHOLOGY
| Type | Tied | Level | 3 | Credits | 20 | Availability | Available in 2009/10 | Module Cap | None. | Location | Queen's Campus Stockton |
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| Tied to | C810 |
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Prerequisites
- 100 credits from Level 2 Applied Psychology (C810) INCLUDING Research Design and Data Analysis (PSYS2091)
Corequisites
- None
Excluded Combination of Modules
- None
Aims
- This module has three complementary aims:
- - first, students will learn how to synthesize research results using meta-analysis
- - second, students will be introduced to additional forms of multivariate data analysis
- - third, they will learn to combine their various research skills
Content
- Introduction to advanced research methods
- Major types of quantitative method and their advantages and disadvantages
- Quantitative; meta-analysis, factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis
- Two other methods from: Rasch analysis, cluster analysis, structural equation modelling, multi-dimensional scaling, network analysis or logistic regression
- The module will also cover related conceptual and historical issues in psychology
Learning Outcomes
Subject-specific Knowledge:
- Detailed knowledge of advanced research methods in psychology including current theory, evidence, and practice
- In-depth knowledge of advanced research methods in applied psychology, including meta analysis
Subject-specific Skills:
- Ability to review critically and consolidate understanding of a coherent body of psychological knowledge and apply it appropriately:
- - competent data analysis skills with the base programmes of SPSS
- - competent data analysis skills with at least one of AMOS, LISREL, EQS, RUMM or Winsteps
Key Skills:
- Good written communication skills
- Good IT skills in word processing, data manipulation, and data presentation
- Ability to work independently in scholarship and research within broad guidelines
Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module
- Knowledge and understanding of advanced research methods and statistics, and the ability to select appropriuate methods in addressing a specific question are developed through the weekly lectures. Skills in applying this knowledge using advance computing packages is acquired during the weekly computing practicals
- This knowledge will be assessed in the summative assessments in which students must demonstrate practical skills in reporting and conducting a meta-analytic study and a critical evaluation of another piece of research
- These abilities are also assessed via the formative report for which feedback is provided
- Good IT and data handling skills are required for the formative and summative work in this module. Feedback is provided regarding the adequacy of these skills where necessary
Teaching Methods and Learning Hours
| Activity | Number | Frequency | Duration | Total/Hours | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lectures | 22 | 1 per week | 1 hour | 22 | |
| Practicals | 22 | 1 per week | 1 hour | 22 | ■ |
| Preparation and Reading | 156 | ||||
| Total | 200 |
Summative Assessment
| Component: Reports | Component Weighting: 100% | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Element | Length / duration | Element Weighting | Resit Opportunity |
| 3000 word meta-analysis assignment | 50% | ||
| 3000 word report of other research method. | 50% | ||
Formative Assessment:
One quantitative data analysis exercise, from network analysis or structural equation modelling
■ Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University