PSY4210 - Statistics and research design for professional psychology

Leader(s): Associate Professor Felicity Allen

Offered

Clayton First semester 2009 (Day)
Singapore First semester 2009 (Off-campus)
South Africa First semester 2009 (Day)

Synopsis

The aim of this unit is to provide students with a thorough understanding in statistical concepts that will enable them to remain up-to-date in their chosen field. The unit begins with a review of univariate statistics before addressing multivariate statistical techniques, focusing on the understanding of the issues underlying the choice of appropriate statistical technique, and the interpretation of findings. The content will be set in a context of methodological issues with special reference to the needs of professional psychologists, whose interests present unusual methodological demands which in turn influence choice of research approach and statistical technique.

Objectives

After completing this unit, it is expected that students will be able to:

1. evaluate the impact of scientific research upon professional practice in psychology;
2. evaluate the validity of research conclusions, particularly within field settings;
3. describe the strategies and processes involved in program evaluation;
4. correctly apply the appropriate statistical methods for designs commonly encountered in research within psychology;
5. identify the ethical issues that can arise in research in professional psychology and deal with them appropriately; and
6. use an appropriate statistical package for analysing research data, such as the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSSx).

Assessment

A two-hour short answer and multiple choice exam: 80%
2 short-answer assignments: 20%
Participation in SPSSx tutorials (hurdle requirement)

Contact hours

2 hours per week of lectures (26 hours) and 1 hour per week of tutorials and SPSSx training.

Off-campus attendance requirements

A three day residential school at the Clayton or Caulfield campus or one of TMC's facilities. Curriculum will include lectures, SPSS workshops and tutorials (24 hours).

Prerequisites

Completed Bachelors Degree and a major sequence in psychology approved by the Australian Psychological Society or qualification assessed as equivalent by the Australian Psychological Society, with a distinction average for third year psychology units.

Prohibitions

PSY4200 and PSY4502