Module PSYC3452: Behavioural Science Dissertation

Department: Psychology

PSYC3452: Behavioural Science Dissertation

Prerequisites

• PSYC2232 - Advanced Research Methods and Statistics

Corequisites

• None

Excluded Combination of Modules

• None

Aims

• To provide students with the experience of identifying an issue in behavioural science that is amenable to empirical investigation, formulating the research question, employing appropriate methods of investigation and analysis, and interpreting the results in light of relevant empirical work and behavioural theory

Content

• The dissertation forms the main practical component of the final year course
• Students are expected to build on the skills acquired during the earlier part of the course to carry out an investigation in behavioural science
• Dissertations take the form of an empirical investigation, drawing on primary and/or secondary data (incl. quantitative systematic reviews/meta-analyses)
• Clear presentation of results and appropriate analyses are very important, and critical evaluation relating findings to existing literature must be included
• The dissertation is written up as a scientific report approximating the form and standard found in academic journals
• Students normally collect data working in pairs or small groups, but must write up the dissertation individually

Learning Outcomes

• Detailed knowledge of specialist areas in behavioural science, including current theory, evidence, and research methods

• Identify a behavioural science issue amenable to empirical investigation, and formulate a clear research question
• Competence in the selection and application of appropriate analytic procedures, and understanding of their limitations
• Ability to reflect critically on the strengths and weaknesses of the chosen design and the validity of the conclusions reached
• Ability to apply academic and professional codes of conduct in the design and conduct of original behavioural science research

• 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

• Students complete their dissertation work under the supervision of an experienced researcher, and typically work in small groups with other students to collect their data. This approach enables students to formulate, design, and conduct an independent piece of research with appropriate supervision and guidance. Independent study is required at all stages of the dissertation.
• The design of the project is discussed in detail with the supervisor in one or more sessions and, during the running of the project, the supervisor is regularly informed by students of progress, by discussion or by email.
• Supervisory meetings provide advanced research training and the opportunity to engage in discussion which encourages students to think critically. Students and supervisors are expected to meet regularly, either in person or online.
• The formative assignment involves students producing, and then getting feedback on, a small group presentation. This provides them with the opportunity to enhance the clarity of their scientific communication with regards to their research question and also improve their IT skills. In addition, to ensure the progress of the project and dissertation students must complete and submit a dissertation proforma.
• The written dissertation report allows students to demonstrate their evaluative, analytical and research skills in a single comprehensive piece of work.
• Supervisors provide formative feedback on a draft of the dissertation (excluding the discussion section) submitted prior to the final deadline to help refine the report and extend students' analytical abilities and theoretical understanding.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment:

There are two formative assessments on this module: 1. A short group presentation which explains the specific hypotheses being tested, outlines the methodology and provides a timetable for the study together. 2. An individually completed dissertation proforma comprised of an annotated bibliography and a statement of ethics. Student also have the opportunity to gain feedback on a single draft of the introduction, methods and results section of their dissertation.

■ 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