Research Methods in Psychology (205-0-20)
Instructors
Paul J Reber
Meeting Info
Annenberg Hall G30: Mon, Wed, Fri 10:00AM - 10:50AM
Overview of class
This course will introduce students to research methods used in psychology using a hands-on approach. Scientific methods in psychology will be demonstrated through two class-wide experimental projects that illustrate basic aspects of experimental design. Individual student reports of these projects provide instruction on scientific writing to field standard (APA) format. Working in small groups, students will carry out an independent research project to prepare a final term paper. In parallel with these research activities, class discussions will review experimental design and control, identifying and avoiding confounds in research, scientific ethics and contrast with non-experimental research based on correlational approaches. Primary goals of the course are to be able to both critically evaluate scientific findings and effectively communicate the findings of their own research.
Registration Requirements
Students must have taken PSYCH 201 or an approved substitute before enrolling in PSYCH 205. Students with AP credit for STAT 202 or AP credit for STAT 210 need to contact psych-advising@u.northwestern.edu about permission to enroll, because CAESAR does not automatically accept that as the prerequisite.
Please see the department website for more information.
Teaching Method
Class discussions and hands-on research-related activities.
Evaluation Method
Grades will be based on two midterm exams, three written scientific reports including a final project completed in small groups, plus short daily assignments to direct in-class discussions.
Class Materials (Required)
Provided by Instructor
Class Attributes
Advanced Expression
Empirical and Deductive Reasoning Foundational Dis
Formal Studies Distro Area
Attendance at 1st class mandatory
Prerequisites apply, see description
Enrollment Requirements
Enrollment Requirements: REQ: To register, students must have completed PSYCH 201 with a C- or higher, STAT 202 with a B or higher, Stat 210 with a B or higher, or have AP credit (score of 5) for STAT 202.