Psychology MA, Research Method I, Statistics and Research Design, 7.5 credits

Aim

This course aims to provide a solid basis in research methods in psychology and quantitative statistical analysis.

Course objectives

After completing the course, students will:

Knowledge and understanding
- be able to identify and describe the basic research methods used in psychological research.
- be able to describe the principles behind the use of ANOVA, multiple regression and factor analysis.

Skills and abilities
- be able to choose adequate research method based on the research problem.
- be able to decide when the use of ANOVA, multiple regression and factor analysis is appropriate, and be able to interpret and evaluate the obtained results.
- be able to use statistical programs (e.g., SPSS) to run and interpret ANOVA, multiple regression and factor analysis.

Judgement and approach
- be able to critically evaluate methodological aspects in different types of studies in research on emotions, and detect possible threats to validity.

Content

A general view of the different types of research methods used in psychology will be presented and discussed, with specific emphasis on the identification of the more frequent threats to the validity of different studies. The student will develop the capacity of critically evaluate different types of research studies within the field of emotions. The course will also provide skills in analysis of variance, multiple regression and factor analysis, focusing on the practical utilization and interpretation.

Entry requirements

A bachelor's degree of at least 180 credits (ECTS) with a major in psychology. Alternatively, a bachelor's degree of at least 180 credits (ECTS) with a different major and 60 credits in psychology. Alternatively, 180 credits (ECTS) in psychology without the requirement of having a completed degree.
English B/English 6 from Swedish gymnasium or the equivalent.

Selection rules and procedures

The selection process is in accordance with the Higher Education Ordinance and the local order of admission.

Teaching form

The course is a distant learning course with a limited number of compulsory meeting on campus in Östersund, Sweden. Participation - via distance communication means - is compulsory throughout the course. Students are required to actively participate via the course room at the university's learning platform. The platform is the primary communication tool used for students and teachers, and students will find all information needed to complete the course in the course room.

Examination form

1000: PS100A, Research Methods I, Statistics and Research Design, 7.5 Credits
Grade scale: Seven-grade scale, A, B, C, D, E, Fx and F. Fx and F represent fail levels.

The course will be examined through active participation in seminars and discussions, on site and online, as well as through written evaluation.

The examiner has the right to offer alternative examination arrangements to students who have been
granted the right to special support by Mid Sweden University’s disabilities adviser.


Link to subject-specific criteria for marks www.miun.se/betygskriterier

Grading system

Seven-grade scale, A, B, C, D, E, Fx and F. Fx and F represent fail levels.