Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Summer 2021 - PSYC 201W D100

Introduction to Research Methods in Psychology (4)

Class Number: 3818

Delivery Method: Remote

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Thu, 12:30–2:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    PSYC 100 or 102.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

An introduction to the procedures used in psychological research, and to the logic underlying them. Topics include the strengths and weaknesses of different approaches to research, the formulation of testable questions, the control of extraneous influences, the measurement of effects, and the drawing of valid conclusions from empirical evidence. Provides a background for senior psychology courses since it offers a basis for the critical evaluation and conduct of research. Students with credit for PSYC 201 may not take this course for further credit. Writing/Quantitative.

COURSE DETAILS:

This course provides an overview of the research process, the methods used to address questions in psychology and the issues that need to be considered when answering questions about the study of mind and behavior. The course provides an overview about how to formulate hypothesis, methods of data collection, how to design and conduct experiments and how to analyze data. The course will also provide students with the experience of preparing a research report.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

After this course students should be able to

1. Define concepts about the research process and methods in psychology
2. Identify examples and concepts about research methods that are encountered in psychological research reports
3. Communicate effectively in writing about the concepts used in psychological research methods.
4. Prepare a research report based on the findings of their experiment.

Grading

  • Quiz 1 • Fill in the Blank questions • (1% each question) Covers weeks 1 to 6 Duration: 90 minutes: 20%
  • Quiz 2 • Fill in the Blank questions • (1% each question) Covers weeks 7 to 13 Duration: 90 minutes: 20%
  • Attendance at Tutorials - involves preparation of timeline for research project and ensuring tasks at each point in the timeline are met/Weekly assignments: 20%
  • Research Proposal: 10%
  • Research Project: 30%

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

Christensen, L. B., Johnson, R. B., & Turner, L. A. (2020).Research Methods, Design, and Analysis (13th Edition). Pearson Publishing

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating.  Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community.  Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

TEACHING AT SFU IN SUMMER 2021

Teaching at SFU in summer 2021 will be conducted primarily through remote methods, but we will continue to have in-person experiential activities for a selection of courses.  Such course components will be clearly identified at registration, as will course components that will be “live” (synchronous) vs. at your own pace (asynchronous). Enrollment acknowledges that remote study may entail different modes of learning, interaction with your instructor, and ways of getting feedback on your work than may be the case for in-person classes. To ensure you can access all course materials, we recommend you have access to a computer with a microphone and camera, and the internet. In some cases your instructor may use Zoom or other means requiring a camera and microphone to invigilate exams. If proctoring software will be used, this will be confirmed in the first week of class.

Students with hidden or visible disabilities who believe they may need class or exam accommodations, including in the current context of remote learning, are encouraged to register with the SFU Centre for Accessible Learning (caladmin@sfu.ca or 778-782-3112).