The module will address the ethics, design, conduct, analysis, interpretation and reporting of empirical research in psychology.
This will start by introducing designs which include one independent variable with at least three levels. The nature of the hypotheses which are associated with such a design will be explained. The method of conducting, interpreting and reporting the initial analysis will be explained. The types of follow-up analysis and how to analyse and report them will be covered. Designs including more than one independent variable will be explained, including how they extend the complexity of the research questions which can be dealt with. The initial analysis and necessary follow-up analysis will be covered along with the interpretation and reporting of such analysis

1. A 2,500 word practical report (60%). (LO's 1, 2 and 3)
2. A one-hour concept test (40%). (LO 4)

Formative Assessment/Feedback:
Feedback will be given on practical reports (of not more than 2000 words) based on two empirical studies. The feedback will be in the form of peer feedback using a standardised evaluation scheme and feedback on specific areas from tutors. Feedback will also be given on work produced in the workshops.

A laboratory with space for group work as well as formal teaching, to be equipped with a computer for each student which has statistical, word processing, spreadsheet and internet programs.

Clark-Carter D. (2010). Quantitative psychological research: The complete student's companion. Hove: Psychology Press.
Field, A. (2013). Discovering statistics: Using SPSS. (4th Ed). London: Sage.
Gray, C. D. & Kinnear, P. R. (2012). IBM SPSS statistics made simple. Hove: Psychology Press
Harris, P. (2008). Designing and reporting experiments (3rd Ed) Milton Keynes: Open University Press.

Be registered on the MSc Psychology Award.

1. REVIEW CRITICALLY AN APPROPRIATE LITERATURE WHICH HAS BEEN IDENTIFIED FOR RESEARCH INVESTIGATION (LEARNING)

2. DEMONSTRATE A SYSTEMATIC UNDERSTANDING OF THE CONCEPTS WHICH UNDERLIE THE RESEARCH DESIGNS CONSIDERED (KNOWLEDGE & UNDERSTANDING)

3. DESIGN, CONDUCT AND ANALYSE PSYCHOLOGICAL RESEARCH TO DEMONSTRATE A COMPREHENSIVE UNDERSTANDING AND CRITICAL EVALUATION OF THE RESEARCH METHODOLOGIES COVERED IN THE MODULE. (ENQUIRY)

4. INTERPRET AND REPORT, IN AN APPROPRIATE MANNER, THE RESULTS OF PSYCHOLOGICAL RESEARCH TO DEMONSTRATE A CRITICAL AWARENESS AND EVALUATION OF THE RESEARCH METHODOLOGIES COVERED IN THE MODULE (ANALYSIS, COMMUNICATION)

Scheduled Learning and Teaching Activities:
Weekly 1-hour Lectures during which the basic concepts are explained
Weekly two-hour Workshops during which the concepts are practised via a workbook of examples, designs are discussed, data are analysed, peer feedback is given
2 hours Module/assessment preparation support session
Additional 2 hour seminar which will focus on Master’s level skills

Guided Independent Study:
Reading about the concepts covered in the module and preparation for the concept test
Completing workbook outside formal class time
Work in groups and teams on the practicals, identifying and reading relevant literature, discussion of the designs, preparing material and running study, including pilot work, analysis and write up

The module will address the ethics, design, conduct, analysis, interpretation and reporting of empirical research in psychology.
This will start by introducing designs which include one independent variable with at least three levels. The nature of the hypotheses which are associated with such a design will be explained. The method of conducting, interpreting and reporting the initial analysis will be explained. The types of follow-up analysis and how to analyse and report them will be covered. Designs including more than one independent variable will be explained, including how they extend the complexity of the research questions which can be dealt with. The initial analysis and necessary follow-up analysis will be covered along with the interpretation and reporting of such analysis