A room in which discussion groups can be formed. Computers running statistical software capable of analysing the designs covered in the module and of giving access to databases. Psychometric test resources. Internet and library resources.

At least a 2.1(hons) degree in Psychology (GBC recognized) or equivalent.

1. Demonstrate the independent learning ability required to advance their knowledge and understanding through the application of research and enquiry techniques (Enquiry, Knowledge and Understanding, Learning)

2. Demonstrate a practical understanding of and ability to use industry standard statistical software for psychologists to analyse multivariate designs (Application, Problem Solving)

3. Demonstrate a practical understanding of how established techniques of research and enquiry are used to interpret quantitative data sets (Application)

4. Demonstrate a practical understanding of how established techniques of research and enquiry are used to interpret qualitative data sets and reflect on the application of these skills (Application, Reflection)

5. Demonstrate a critical awareness of the internal and external validity of research designs and the validity and reliability of psychometric measures (Analysis)

In this module training will be provided in the main research methodologies employed by psychologists, with a focus upon methods frequently employed within health research. The module will examine the philosophical underpinnings of research approaches and the difficulties of conducting research and practice under experimental and non-experimental conditions. The module will also examine how measures are created and used; including issues of reliability and validity, particularly of questionnaires and psychometric instruments. Students will also develop skills in efficient searching of electronic information retrieval systems, data extraction for systematic review purposes and their synthesis through meta-analysis. Training in analysis delivered in this module will go beyond treating statistical significance as the sole arbiter of research outcome. The emphasis will be upon psychological research which can be analysed by multivariate and qualitative techniques. Statistical techniques explored will include multiple regression, ANCOVA and MANOVA. A range of qualitative techniques will be covered, including discourse analysis, IPA and grounded theory. The use of 'industry standard' statistical software such as Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) and NVIVO will be introduced. Remedial training will be provided for those lacking in confidence about their basic competence, particularly in statistics and use of software.

QUANTITATIVE REPORT (3000 WORDS) weighted at 40%.
QUALITATIVE REPORT (3000 WORDS) weighted at 40%.
PSYCHOMETRICS REPORT (2000 WORDS) weighted at 20%.

One research report of 3000 words, reporting the use of one of the quantitative techniques
covered in the module: 40%
This will involve researching the topic through employing databases to identify relevant research and the use of statistical software to conduct the analysis. (LO's 1, 2, 3 and 5)

One report of 3000 words, analysing a set of interview data using one of the qualitative methods taught on the module, 40% (LO’s 1 and 4).

One report of 2000 words prepared for a specified consumer group evaluating and making recommendations about the adoption of particular psychometric instruments: 20% (LO 5)

Students will be required to gain a pass in all elements of assessment within the module.

Formative feedback will be given through dialogue between tutors and students as they work through exercises linked to each session and as they work through the assignment

Clark-Carter D (2010 2018) Quantitative psychological research: The complete student's companion. Hove: Psychology Press.
Smith, J. A. (Ed.) (2008 2015) Qualitative psychology: A practical guide to research methods. (2nd Edn.) London: Sage.
Tabachnick B G & Fidell L S (2013) Using multivariate statistics. (6th Edn). New York: Pearson Education
Willig, C. (2013) Introducing qualitative methods in psychology. (3rd Edn) Maidenhead, Berks: Open University Press.

Twenty six, three-hour laboratory workshops during which issues and techniques will be explained, discussed and explored. This will be supported by four scheduled independent learning sessions (3 hours each) and two hundred and twenty two hours of independent learning during which reading about the topics to be researched, analysing and writing reports of the research will take place.

Clark-Carter D (2018) Quantitative psychological research: The complete student's companion. Hove: Psychology Press.
Smith, J. A. (Ed.) (2015) Qualitative psychology: A practical guide to research methods. (2nd Edn.) London: Sage.
Tabachnick B G & Fidell L S (2013) Using multivariate statistics. (6th Edn). New York: Pearson Education
Willig, C. (2013) Introducing qualitative methods in psychology. (3rd Edn) Maidenhead, Berks: Open University Press.

In this module training will be provided in the main research methodologies employed by psychologists, with a focus upon methods frequently employed within health research. The module will examine the philosophical underpinnings of research approaches and the difficulties of conducting research and practice under experimental and non-experimental conditions. The module will also examine how measures are created and used; including issues of reliability and validity, particularly of questionnaires and psychometric instruments. You will also develop skills in efficient searching of electronic information retrieval systems, data extraction for systematic review purposes and their synthesis through meta-analysis. Training in analysis delivered in this module will go beyond treating statistical significance as the sole arbiter of research outcome. The emphasis will be upon psychological research which can be analysed by multivariate and qualitative techniques. Statistical techniques explored will include multiple regression, ANCOVA and MANOVA. A range of qualitative techniques will be covered, including discourse analysis, IPA and grounded theory. The use of 'industry standard' statistical software such as Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) and NVIVO will be introduced. Remedial training will be provided for those lacking in confidence about their basic competence, particularly in statistics and use of software.