Research Methods in Psychology 2 - PSY00022I
Module will run
| Occurrence | Teaching period |
|---|---|
| A | Semester 1 2026-27 |
Module aims
This module aims to build on previous understanding of experimental design and analysis gained in Research Methods 1, using practical examples to help you understand more advanced techniques for data analysis. We aim to help you gain confidence in conducting independent qualitative and quantitative analysis, to prepare you for your final year project.
Module learning outcomes
- be able to use a statistical package to analyse quantitative data: correlation, simple and multiple regression, one-way, factorial, repeated and mixed ANOVAs, and Factor Analysis.
- demonstrate an understanding of the concepts of reliability, validity and effect size
- Select the appropriate statistical test for a given dataset
- check that the assumptions for these tests are met
- Demonstrate an understanding and have some direct practical experience of qualitative methods in psychology; thematic analysis, discourse analysis, and interpretative phenomenological analysis.
- explain the rationale for and make power calculations;
- present results from qualitative and quantitative analyses clearly, in APA format
Module content
In RM2 you will learn about more advanced qualitative and quantitative techniques for investigating your research questions. As in RM1, you will gain theoretical knowledge of these techniques in the lectures, while learning practical skills in the computer room sessions where you will gain confidence using a statistical package to analyse and present your findings. You will learn to assess quantitative datasets using one-way, factorial, repeated, and mixed ANOVAs for research with categorical IVs. For continuous data, you will learn about correlation and regression analysis, as well as factor analysis for use with questionnaire data. You will also learn to consider effect size, and experimental power, and will be able to conduct several forms of power analysis, and compare effect size across different experiments. You will continue to develop your critical thinking when it comes to experimental design, which will help you when appraising your own research, as well as studies you read about in the literature.
Indicative assessment
| Task | % of module mark |
|---|---|
| Closed/in-person Exam (Centrally scheduled) | 100.0 |
Special assessment rules
None
Indicative reassessment
| Task | % of module mark |
|---|---|
| Closed/in-person Exam (Centrally scheduled) | 100.0 |
Module feedback
The marks on all assessed work will be provided on e-vision.
Indicative reading
We have a custom made textbook to support key study skills throughout your degree: Slocombe, Katie (2010). All you ever wanted to know about research methods and academic skills. Pearson
In Year 2 we recommend Andy Field, Discovering Statistics Using SPSS: Fourth or Fifth Edition