PSY4210

Psychology honours: Theory and methods ( 12 points, SCA Band 1, 0.250 EFTSL)

Leader: Dr Greg Yelland

Offered:
Caulfield First semester 2006 (Day)
Clayton First semester 2006 (Day)
South Africa First semester 2006 (Day)
Caulfield Second semester 2006 (OCL)
Singapore Second semester 2006 (OCL)
South Africa Second semester 2006 (Day)

Synopsis: In this unit, students complete coursework in two core areas of the honours program: statistics and research design and theoretical psychology. The statistical component is set in a context of methodological issues with special reference to the needs of professional psychologists. It provides a review of univariate statistics then moving multivariate techniques, focussing on the choice of statistical technique and the interpretation of findings. In the theoretical component students complete a 5000 - 7000 word theoretical essay under the supervision of a member of the academic staff aided by workshops on electronic communication, advanced library and bibliographic skills.

Objectives: On completion of this unit, students will: 1. understand the processes involved in the design, development and implementation of research project; 2. be proficient in the use of advanced univariate and multivariate statistical procedures relevant to psychology including correctly applying the appropriate statistical methods for designs commonly encountered in research within psychology; 3. be able to use an appropriate statistical package for analysing research data, such as the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS); 4. be able to critically review and analyse the scientific literature in, and theoretical basis to current issues in psychology; 5. be able to formulate well-formed arguments based on theoretical and conceptual issues; 6. have gained insight into the breadth and diversity of psychological disciplines; 7. be able to write up scientific work in a potentially publishable way; and 8. have a good understanding of the range of advanced library and internet search techniques.

Assessment: Exam (2 hours): 25% + Theoretical essay (5000 - 7000 words): 75% + Hurdle requirement: Participation in SPSS tutorials

Prohibitions: PSY4200 and PSY4502