96633 Research Methods in Psychology

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Subject handbook information prior to 2024 is available in the Archives.

UTS: Health (GEM)
Credit points: 6 cp
Result type: Grade and marks

There are course requisites for this subject. See access conditions.

Description

Research methods and theory underpin psychological research. In this subject, students explore the scientific method underpinning the scientist-practitioner model. By comparing and contrasting specific research methods and various types of research design, students examine the importance of reproducibility, critically evaluate the credibility and objectivity of research communications, and develop an understanding of what distinguishes the scientific approach from pseudoscience. Students also engage with key ethical issues, questions and principles that guide the work of the scientist-practitioner in psychology.

Subject learning objectives (SLOs)

015.	Evaluate why psychology is a science.
017.	Recognise major historical events and their link to trends in contemporary research.
026.	Compare and contrast specific research methods (e.g., observational, archival, correlational, experimental, qualitative).
030.	Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the importance of reproducibility.
039.	Distinguish key concepts and principles relating to research methods.
042.	Critically evaluate research communications from varied sources with regard to how they differ in credibility and objectivity.
063.	Formulate a research report in adherence to the current American Psychological Association (APA) Style guide and form.
074.	Evaluate the biases and errors that appear in various media.