Students will be introduced to the key concepts within quantitative and qualitative research methods. Topics will include experiments, experimental design, self-report methods, observations, correlations, content and thematic analysis, and longitudinal research methods. To inform these concepts students will be introduced to classic and contemporary research studies that have utilised these research methods.

To provide students with key employability skills and to prepare students for Level 4 study, students will undertake study skills sessions including conducting a literature review, accessing library databases and journal articles, and statistics. Independent study time will be spent engaging in wider reading and formative assessment.

Lab report (LO 1 & 2) – Report of a write-up and analysis of a non-experimental research project. Podcast presentation (LO 1 & 3) – 5 minute individual podcast communicating the findings of an experimental research project.

Formative assessment Formative learning for the lab report and podcast presentation will consist of group discussions and in-class questioning in order to determine knowledge. Analysis of data using both descriptive and inferential statistics will be modelled in class. Students will also complete a practice assignment to prepare for the actual assessment.

Lecture/workshop sessions. Lecture content provides a basic framework of concepts, theories and research. Classes also include interactive learning activities such as workshops, group discussions, web-based activities, practical demonstrations and tests, oral presentations, and written formative and summative assessments. During their private study time, students will be expected to complete additional reading and consolidate the topics and concepts covered in class.

1. Describe the basic concepts and key issues involved in quantitative psychological research methodology.

Knowledge and Understanding

2. Conduct a collaborative practical research project based on your knowledge of introductory quantitative research methods and evidence of the quantitative analysis you have undertaken and communicate the research findings in a report.

Research Skills Critical reasoning and collaboration

3. Communicate research findings in a podcast presentation.

Communication Digital Literacy

Haslam, S. A., McGarty, C., Cruwys, T., & Steffens, N. K. (2024). Research methods and statistics in psychology (4th ed., paperback). SAGE Publications Ltd

On this module you will learn the basic concepts when conducting quantitative and qualitative psychological research. You will study topics such as experiments, experimental design, self-report methods, observations, correlations, content and thematic analysis and longitudinal research methods. To illustrate these concepts, you will be introduced to classic and contemporary research studies that have utilised these research methods. To support your study skills within this module you will undertake sessions on conducting a literature review, accessing library databases / journal articles and statistics.