Overview

Students in this module will conduct a research study with the aim of further developing the theories explored in PPP3001/PCC3001/PCC3000/PPP3000 . Students will carry out a substantial piece of empirical research developing knowledge and skill in the following areas: defining a research problem with a testable hypothesis/research question; learning appropriate methodologies; planning and carrying out a study efficiently; demonstrating awareness of ethical issues and current codes of ethics and conduct; demonstrating the ability to reason about data and present findings effectively; discussing findings in terms of previous research; evaluating methodologies and analyses employed and implications for ethics; and collaborating effectively with colleagues, participants, and/or outside agencies.

Assessment Strategy

-threshold - C •Full engagement with the research process, including literature review, data collection and analysis, and report writing. •Adequate knowledge of key concepts with some understanding of theoretical issues but some factual errors. •Limited evidence of critical analysis and evaluation of hypothesis and theory. •Some understanding of research methods and appreciation of ethical issues, but some errors in statistical analysis. •Weak written presentation, but some evidence of coherent expression.

-good - B •Full engagement with the research process, including literature review, data collection and analysis, and report writing. •Strong knowledge of key concepts with solid understanding of theoretical issues and few factual errors. •Some evidence of critical analysis and evaluation of hypothesis and theory. •Some insight and understanding of research methods and clear appreciation of ethical issues, with only minor errors in statistical analysis. •Well-structured written presentation showing focus of argument and expression.

-excellent -A •Full engagement with the research process, including literature review, data collection and analysis, and report writing. •Comprehensive and detailed knowledge of key concepts with excellent understanding and original interpretation of theoretical issues and no factual errors. •Clear evidence of critical analysis and insightful evaluation of hypothesis and theory. •Depth of insight and clear understanding of research methods and clear appreciation of ethical issues, with no errors in statistical analysis. •Well-structured written presentations showing focus and clarity of argument and expression.

Learning Outcomes

• Collect and analyse data gathered during research and draw appropriate conclusions on the basis of this analysis

• Design and conduct a research study testing a psychological hypothesis

• Present research findings in a short oral presentation.

• Present the research findings in a formal thesis