EDF5524

Research project in psychology ( 18 points, SCA Band 1, 0.375 EFTSL)

Leader: Mr J Roodenburg

Offered:
Not offered in 2005.

Synopsis: The unit provides practical training in the design and conduct of an empirical research project. Working with one of the unit lecturers, students will learn how to prepare a research proposal, collect and analyse the data that will form the basis for an empirical report that meets the requirements of the American Psychological Association publication standards.

Objectives: On completion of this unit students will demonstrate skills in collecting, presenting and evaluating behavioural data; be able to conduct a computer search of relevant literature; state predictions or hypotheses in a testable form; know how to apply appropriate data reduction techniques; apply appropriate statistical techniques from MATLAB or SPSS to test the predictions generated in the research proposal; be able to interpret and report the results of their data analyses in a manner consistent with the style promulgated in the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association.

Assessment: In Semester 1: students will complete a proposal for their empirical report submitted in Semester 2 (3,000 words): 30%. In Semester 2: students will finalise their data collection, analyse and interpret these data, and submit a report. Written report (9,000 - 12,000 words): 70%

Contact Hours: 2 hours per week

Prerequisites: Completion of an Australian Psychological Society (APS)-accredited major sequence in psychology

Prohibitions: Students who have completed or enrolled in GED0151/0152