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The discipline of psychology is based on a solid foundation of scientific research. Researchers use a variety of conceptual, logical and mathematical tools to reduce uncertainty in the state of psychological knowledge. This course introduces more advanced research methodologies and statistical techniques.

This course builds upon the basic methods and tools of psychological research, extending the range and complexity of questions which can be addressed. A variety of research designs are introduced including survey design, quasi-experimental designs and single-subject and small-n designs as ways of answering specific questions and dealing with potential confounds. The statistical and analytic tools associated with these techniques are also explored including factorial analysis of variance, and multiple regression Real data is used to develop practical analysis skills and enhance conceptual understanding. Reliable access to a suitable computer and internet access is required as per Faculty of Health, Engineering and Sciences requirements.

On completion of this course students will be able to:

1. identify the ethical guidelines researchers must follow and describe how researchers implement these guidelines in actual studies;
2. describe different research designs, identify when it is appropriate to use them, and the various factors that contribute to internal and external validity;
3. identify the theoretical concepts used in a study, the variables used to operationalise these concepts, and the control techniques used;
4. propose research questions and hypotheses to test psychological concepts and theories and select the most appropriate analytic technique;
5. apply conceptual understanding of analysis of variance to more advanced statistical analyses such as factorial analysis of variance, and multiple regression;
6. analyse psychological research data and be able to interpret the output of each test as well as measures of effect size;
7. write an extended research report in APA style focusing on the link between the research question, the rationale for the analytic technique used, the results of the analyses and the importance and meaning of the results.