Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2018 - PSYC 201W D100

Introduction to Research Methods in Psychology (4)

Class Number: 1299

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 4 – Dec 3, 2018: Fri, 12:30–2:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Dec 14, 2018
    Fri, 12:00–3:00 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:

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 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-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

Critical evaluation, hypothesis generation.


Topics:

Research design, psychometrics.

Grading

  • Mid-Term Exam: 20%
  • Participation: 4%
  • Writing Assignments: 25%
  • Term Paper/Project: 30%
  • Digital Assignments: 15%
  • Research Participation: 6%

NOTES:

This course is offered with both large-lecture and tutorial components, attendance at both is mandatory for success in this course.

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

Required text: Leary, M. (2016). REVEL for Introduction to Behavioral Research Methods, 7th Edition (Digital Access card), Pearson.

Revel access is required for digital assignments. Please note, once Revel access is purchased, a loose-leaf version of the textbook can be ordered from the publisher for $15. If you are interested in a physical copy of the book, the link should appear when you login to the system.

Registrar Notes:

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://students.sfu.ca/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

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS