Introduction to Research Methods in Psychology

Unit code:APP1017Study level:Undergraduate

Credit points

12
(Generally, 1 credit = 10 hours of classes and independent study.)

Location

Footscray Park

Prerequisites

(Or equivalent to be determined by unit coordinator)
Co-requisites
(Corequisite units must be studied concurrently with this unit)

Overview

This unit introduces students to how research contributes to evidence-based practice and the scientist practitioner model of psychology. Theoretical content will build understanding of both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies and methods. Students will also gain introductory knowledge of research design, data collection, and data analysis including the use of statistical programs. Development of this knowledge and skills will facilitate students’ understanding of the real-world applicability of research in psychology including evidence-based practice.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

Exhibit foundational understanding of qualitative and quantitative research methodologies and how they relate to evidence-based practice in psychology;
Determine appropriate research designs and research methods to address hypothetical and real-world problems;
Demonstrate the ability to calculate and explain introductory statistics using appropriate methods; and
Report results of data analysis, interpretation and the practical applications related to psychology.

Assessment

For Melbourne campuses

Students will develop a research proposal, requiring them to apply their learning about research methodologies and methods in psychology to a real-world problem. In the first assessment, students will be assessed on content that is required for the written proposal. The exercise will assess students' foundational research quantitative and qualitative methods knowledge, terminology, and how to calculate, summarise and explain introductory statistical results.

Assessment type: Test | Grade: 20%

MC and short-answer (1hr)

Assessment type: Report | Grade: 40%

Written research proposal (900 words)

Assessment type: Exercise | Grade: 40%

In-class practical exercise with multiple choice and short answers (2 hours)

Required reading

RECOMMENDED TEXTS: Burton, L., Goodwin, C. J., Goodwin, K. A., & Jose, P. (2018). Psychology research methods. Wiley. Field, A. P. (2024) Discovering statistics using IBM SPSS statistics 6th ed. London Thousand Oaks, California SAGE Publications Pallant, J. (2020) SPSS survival manual 7th ed Sydney: Allen & Unwin