In this module training will be provided in the main research methodologies employed by psychologists, with a focus on methods frequently employed within health research. The module will critically examine how psychometric measures are created and administered. This includes issues of reliability and validity, particularly of questionnaires and psychometric instruments relevant to clinical psychology (e.g., health-related quality of life scales). Students will also develop skills in efficient searching of electronic information retrieval systems, as part of the assessments. 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 thematic analysis, 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. Support will be provided for those lacking in confidence about their basic competence, particularly in statistics and use of software.

1. Quantitative Research Report (50%, 3000 words)
One research report of 3000 words, using and reporting the use of one of the advanced quantitative techniques covered in the module. This will involve researching the topic through employing databases to identify relevant research and the use of statistical software to conduct the analysis. Students will also have to assess and report on the psychometric properties of chosen scales (Learning Outcomes 1, 2, 3, and 5).

2. Qualitative Research Report (50%, 3000 words)
One report of 3000 words, analysing a set of interview data using one of the qualitative methods taught on the module (Learning Outcomes 1, 2 and 4).

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 each assignment. Several opportunities for drop-in support are provided, linked to each assignment, for further formative feedback.

Taught sessions, in the form of interactive workshops, will be delivered during which issues and techniques will be explained, discussed, explored and practiced. Taught sessions will incorporate practice-based learning and support students in applying the knowledge and skills gained, including in the use of industry standard software (SPSS and NVivo). These will be supported by guided independent learning, during which students will engage with preparatory tasks for the workshops and reading about the topics to be researched in addition to analysing and writing reports of the research.

1. Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of how knowledge is advanced through the application of research and enquiry techniques in psychology.
Enquiry, Knowledge & Understanding, Learning.

2. Demonstrate a practical understanding of, and ability to effectively use industry standard software for psychologists to analyse quantitative and qualitative data at an advanced level.
Application, Problem Solving.

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

4. Demonstrate a comprehensive and 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.

Blackboard Virtual Learning Environment. Computers running statistical software (e.g., SPSS, NVivo) capable of analysing the designs covered in the module and of giving access to web-based databases to review current relevant literature. Internet access. Library. Resource rooms.

This module does not have a core text, however the texts below are all very useful for improving your understanding of research methods and statistics. Full reading lists for each session will be made available on Blackboard.

Quantitative Methods:
Clark-Carter, D. (2018) Quantitative Psychological Research: The Complete Student's Companion (4th ed.). Psychology Press.

Dugard, P., Todman, J., & Staines, H. (2010). Approaching multivariate analysis: A practical introduction (2nd ed.). Routledge.

Field, A. (2017). Discovering Statistics Using IBM SPSS Statistics (5th ed.). Sage.

Tabachnick, B.G., & Fidell, L.S. (2013). Using Multivariate Statistics (6th ed.). Allyn and Bacon

Qualitative Methods:
Braun, V., & Clarke, B. (2013). Successful qualitative research: A practical guide for beginners. Sage.

Braun, V., & Clarke, V. (2021). Thematic analysis: A practical guide. Sage.

Forrester, M.A. (2010). Doing Qualitative Research in Psychology: A practical guide. Sage.

Smith, J.A. (2015). Qualitative psychology: A practical guide to research methods. Sage.

Willig, C. (2013). Introducing Qualitative Research in Psychology: Adventures in Theory and Method (3rd ed.). Open University Press.

Students must be registered on the MSc Foundations of Clinical Psychology.

In this module training will be provided in the main research methodologies employed by psychologists, with a focus on methods frequently employed within health research. The emphasis will be upon psychological research which can be analysed by quantitative multivariate and qualitative techniques. Statistical techniques explored will include multiple regression, ANCOVA and MANOVA. A range of qualitative techniques will be covered, including thematic analysis, discourse analysis, IPA, and grounded theory. A critical understanding of psychometric issues will also be gained, though exploring the development and implementation of psychometric measures.