Postgraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2013-2014 (archived)
Module PSYC40215: Research Practice
Department: Psychology
PSYC40215: Research Practice
| Type | Tied | Level | 4 | Credits | 15 | Availability | Available in 2013/14 | Module Cap | None. |
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| Tied to | C8K109, C8K009, |
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Prerequisites
- None
Corequisites
- None
Excluded Combination of Modules
- None
Aims
- To provide training in a range of methodological approaches used in psychology
- To provide practical training in a range of transferable skills relevant for professional and personal development
Content
- This module covers research methods in psychology: relationships between theory and research and covers topics such as:
- The experimental method, single case designs;
- Individual differences, including psychometrics;
- Introduction to qualitative methods: questionnaire design, observational studies, diary techniques, interviews
- Use of tools: Powerpoint, EndNote and internet based tools
- Project management: Planning research, time management, organisational skills, teamwork and cooperation.
- Dissemination and presentation: writing styles and strategies
Learning Outcomes
Subject-specific Knowledge:
- Critical understanding of research design and strategy, including the selection and interpretation of alternative methods and techniques
- The ability to formulate researchable problems
Subject-specific Skills:
- Capabilities for managing research practically
Key Skills:
- Written communication skills
- Transferable employment skills relevant for professional and personal development, including: ability to communicate complex information, time management and organisation of work
Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module
- This module is taught through weekly two hour seminars for one term
- This module is assessed formatively through a written assignment
- Summative assessment of this module is through an examination
Teaching Methods and Learning Hours
| Activity | Number | Frequency | Duration | Total/Hours | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seminars | 10 | weekly in Michaelmas term | 2 hours | 20 | ■ |
| Preparation and reading | 130 | ||||
| Total | 150 |
Summative Assessment
| Component: unseen exam | Component Weighting: 100% | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Element | Length / duration | Element Weighting | Resit Opportunity |
| Exam | 2 hours | 100% | Yes |
Formative Assessment:
2000 word assignment on topic derived from seminars
■ 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