Course textbooks and learning materials as suggested above. Access to PC with word processing and PowerPoint programmes and internet. To access Blackboard you must have a PC running Windows NT4, 95, 98, 2000 or XP or a Macintosh. You must also have either Internet Explorer or Netscape Navigator 4.0 or above. Remote access to library facilities.
SPSS software package and CD ROM.

Students will follow a nine week guided study programme and access support material via Blackboard. Students will be required to access additional support material independently. Understanding of key concepts will be self-assessed via questions posed on Blackboard and tutors feedback will be provided. Students should engage in on-line discussion sessions and will be required to support discussions with evidence based arguments.

This module will enable students to develop and enhance your research and statistical skills. Topics covered include: understanding the nature of research, evaluating sources of information, research and experimental designs, sampling and evaluation, data definition and statistical analysis, and presentation of research findings. Selected statistical procedures will be examined via case studies (published research papers) which utilise advanced parametric and non parametric procedures. Techniques covered include; t-tests, Mann Whitney, Wilcoxon, correlations, chi-square, Analysis of Variance and Covariance, Multivariate Analysis of Covariance. Selected qualitative approaches to data collection and analysis (e.g., content analysis, grounded theory, case study accounts, ethnographic inquiry) will also be considered.

Clark-Carter, D. (2004). Quantitative psychological research: A student's handbook. Hove:Psychology Press.
Hopkins, W.G. A New View of Statistics, to be accessed at: http://www.sportsci.org/resource/stats/index.html
Ntoumanis, N. (2001). Step-by-Step Guide to SPSS for Sport & Exercise Studies ISBN: 0-415-24978-3
Willig, C. (2001). Qualitative research in psychology. Maidenhead: Open University Press. ISBN: 0335205356

(1) To provide a written critique (1000 words) of the methodology(ies) employed in a self-selected research article. This is worth 30% of the module grade and assesses LO 1.

(2) To conduct, report and interpret analyses conducted on a quantitative data set provided. This is worth 35% of the module grade and assesses LO 2. (Equivalent to 1,200 words).

(3) To conduct, report and interpret analyses conducted on a qualitative data set provided. This is worth 35% of the module grade and assesses LO 3 (Equivalent to 1,200 words).

Students must pass all elements of assessment in order to pass the module (grade point 7)