Research Methods in Psychology (205-0-22)
Instructors
Ginger L. Pennington
847/467-3041
Swift Hall, 2029 Sheridan Road, Evanston
Office Hours: By Appointment
Meeting Info
Annenberg Hall G30: Mon, Wed 11:00AM - 12:20PM
Overview of class
This course immerses students in the world of psychological research through engaging, hands-on experience. Students develop essential skills in experimental design, data collection, analysis, and scientific communication while engaging with contemporary challenges in the field. The course begins with two guided research projects that build fundamental skills, then transitions to small-group investigations where students explore topics of their choice. Throughout the semester, students experience the collaborative nature of modern research environments while receiving structured support through both classroom workshops and individual / group mentoring. This course provides crucial preparation for more advanced psychology courses, independent research, graduate studies, and professional careers in psychology.
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 lectures and discussions and hands-on research-related activities
Evaluation Method
Grades will be based on short weekly assignments to direct in-class discussions, participation in team meetings and class discussions, and three scientific reports written in APA-format, including a final project completed in small groups.
Class Materials (Required)
Open source text: Research Methods in Psychology Copyright © 2019 by Rajiv S. Jhangiani, I-Chant A. Chiang, Carrie Cuttler, & Dana C. Leighton
Class Attributes
Advanced Expression
Empirical and Deductive Reasoning Foundational Dis
Formal Studies Distro Area
Attendance at 1st class mandatory
Prerequisites apply, see description
No Freshmen
Enrollment Requirements
Enrollment Requirements: Pre-Reg: Reserved for PSYCH, COG_SCI, NEUROSCI and MUS_THRY students only.
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.