Research Methods 2500-EN-PS-OB1Z-5
Psychology is a science that deals with human cognition, emotion, and
behavior. The aim of this course is to develop knowledge and
understanding of what science is and what tools psychology offers to
answer scientific questions about different aspects of human functioning.
The purpose of this course is to provide students with familiarity and
understanding of various research methods in the behavioral sciences so
that they can: plan good research, understand the strengths and
limitations of research methods, critically evaluate information about
human behavior presented in both professional journals and popular
media, and begin developing proficiency in professional scientific writing.
The course comprises two elements: lecture and seminar. During lectures
students will be introduced to basic ideas and concepts that will later be
extended and explored in-depth during seminars.
Due to a large number of obligatory readings, this course might be
demanding in terms of both time and effort required from students.
At the end of the course, students are expected to possess and apply
knowledge concerning diverse aspects of psychological research
methodology: scientific method and its philosophical underpinnings,
different ways of conducting research, basics of experimental design,
confounds and ways of dealing with them, theory of psychological
measurement, problems of reliability, internal and external validity, basic
notions used in statistics, as well as ethical issues involved in conducting and communicating research results.
Type of course
Learning outcomes
− Student will become aware of the differences between common
sense and scientific knowledge based on empirical findings. (K_W11)
− Student will know basic concepts and notions related to experimental
and non-experimental research methods. (K_W12)
− Student will gain conceptual understanding of basic statistical
concepts (descriptive statistics, significance testing, etc.). (K_W09,
K_W10)
− Student will know different methods used to operationalize
psychological concepts, including basic understanding of
psychometrics. (K_W12, K_W13)
− Student will know how to conceptualize psychological problems by
formulating hypotheses and research questions. (K_U03)
− Student will understand the complex interplay between finding the
optimal research solution and limitations stemming from ethical
standards. (K_U13)
− Student will be able to critically assess validity of research findings
reported in mass-media. (K_U17)
− Student will have basic skills needed to undertake empirical research
projects. (K_K01)
− Student will follow- ethical standards and responsibilities of members
of scientific community. (K_K03)
Additional information
Additional information (registration calendar, class conductors, localization and schedules of classes), might be available in the USOSweb system: