PSY451 Research Methods and Statistics in Psychology (8)

This subject introduces students to current methodological and statistical techniques used in psychological research. A number of methodological approaches and data collection techniques are examined and evaluated. Students are also introduced to hypothesis testing, a range of common parametric and non-parametric inferential tests, and computer analysis of data.

Availability

Session 1 (30)
Online
Bathurst Campus
Session 3 (90)
Online
Bathurst Campus

Continuing students should consult the SAL for current offering details: PSY451. Where differences exist between the Handbook and the SAL, the SAL should be taken as containing the correct subject offering details.

Subject Information

Grading System

HD/FL

Duration

One session

School

School of Psychology

Enrolment Restrictions

Students may not complete PSY451 and PSY201 in the same award.

Assumed Knowledge

PSY101 and PSY102

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:
  • be able to demonstrate an understanding of the value of quantitative research;
  • be able to describe the applications, limitations, strengths, and weaknesses of a range of research methodologies;
  • be able to select appropriate methodology(ies) for answering research questions;
  • be able to describe the concepts, principles, and processes involved in developing high quality research;
  • be able to describe and apply the ethical principles to be followed in carrying out research in psychology;
  • be able to select, compute, and interpret selected parametric and non-parametric statistics appropriate to nominated research methods;
  • be able to use a computer package (e.g., SPSS) to analyse data; and
  • be able to follow the conventions of the American Psychological Association for reporting research.

Syllabus

This subject will cover the following topics:
  • the foundations of research
  • introduction to quantitative methods
  • sampling
  • ethical principles in psychological research
  • topics in parametric statistics
  • topics in non-parametric statistics
  • power, effect size, and confidence intervals
  • conventions for report writing in psychology

Indicative Assessment

The following table summarises the assessment tasks for the online offering of PSY451 in Session 3 2021. Please note this is a guide only. Assessment tasks are regularly updated and can also differ to suit the mode of study (online or on campus).

Item Number
Title
Value %
1
Assumed knowledge test
0
2
Introduction & method section of a research report
30
3
Research report
30
4
Final exam (online test)
40

The information contained in the CSU Handbook was accurate at the date of publication: May 2022. The University reserves the right to vary the information at any time without notice.

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