Research Methods: Science and Psychology - PSYC4002

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Module delivery information

Location Term Level1 Credits (ECTS)2 Current Convenor3 2026 to 2027
Canterbury
Spring Term 4 20 (10) Maria Gallagher checkmark-circle

Overview

How do psychologists generate knowledge? How can we use scientific methods to better understand human behaviour? In this module, you will learn the essentials of the scientific method, and how we can use this to design psychology experiments effectively. Through designing your own surveys and experiments, you will develop essential practical skills that will help you understand how to collect and work with psychological data, and how the theory of research translates into practice. This module will help you understand how to operationalise and measure variables, and how different types of data can be analysed.

Details

Contact hours

Lecture 16, Workshop 16

Method of assessment

Short Answer Questions. Assessment Details: 1200 words worth 30%.
Examination. Assessment Details: 2 hours MCQ exam worth 50%.
Research Participation Scheme worth 20%.

Reassessment Method: 100% exam

Indicative reading

Learning outcomes

On successfully completing the module, students will be able to: 

1) Explain the elementary principles of research design, data collection and the scientific method.
2) Describe and experience different experimental and non-experimental methods.
3) Recognise and articulate limitations to different experimental and non-experimental methods.
4) Place the findings of psychology research in context and use experiences for future research collection.
5) Define and operationalise different types of variables.

Notes

  1. Credit level 4. Certificate level module usually taken in the first stage of an undergraduate degree.
  2. ECTS credits are recognised throughout the EU and allow you to transfer credit easily from one university to another.
  3. The named convenor is the convenor for the current academic session.
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