Experimental Psychology 2500-EN-COG-F21

This course is designed to introduce students to the philosophy,
principles, and methods of scientific research in experimental psychology.
Students will learn how to plan, conduct and analyze their own
experimental research, and how to communicate the results of their
research to others. Students will develop the knowledge and skills to
apply and critique the scientific method in future courses (e.g.
empirical/theoretical paper, master thesis).
Course objectives:
 To help students become (more) comfortable with experimental
research. Although our goal is not (necessarily) to master
computational aspects of statistics, students will be expected to
master some statistical concepts.
 To develop an understanding of the language, methods, and
standards of scientific research.
 To enable students to generate research questions of interest,
and teach them how they can use the tools of research and
statistical methods to address their questions. This includes
learning how to phrase research questions, formulating
hypotheses, conducting computerized/internet literature
searches, following ethical principles, selecting an appropriate
design and sampling strategy, forming appropriate conclusions,
and writing a paper that effectively describes the research. If one
cannot effectively communicate one’s research findings, those
findings will remain generally unknown.
 To develop an appreciation of the need for a commitment to
research as part of the life of scientist or/and professional
psychologists.
 To help students develop a general spirit of inquiry and an ability