Registry

Module Specifications

Archived Version 2022 - 2023

Module Title
Module Code
School
Online Module Resources
NFQ level	8	Credit Rating	15
Pre-requisite	None
Co-requisite	None
Compatibles	None
Incompatibles	None

Description

This module further develops students' knowledge, skills and competencies with regard to Psychological research methods. Data collection and data analysis methods for quantitative and qualitative are explored, with students assessing their strengths and weaknesses. It is essential for Psychology students to be able to explain why a particular data collection or analysis method is appropriate in a particular instance. Practical skills and competencies with regard to the analysis of data using appropriate software are developed in this module. Students are provided with appropriate research methods software (for Windows PC), where necessary.

Learning Outcomes

1. Assess the strengths and weaknesses of quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods research designs and methods
2. Examine quantitative and qualitative data collection/analysis methods and illustrate why a particular data collection/analysis method is appropriate for a particular research study
3. Examine, and reflect on, the importance of ethical issues in Psychological research
4. Demonstrate competence in utilising appropriate software to analyse quantitative data
5. Demonstrate competence in utilising appropriate software to analyse qualitative data

*Type*	*Hours*	*Description*
Workload	Full-time hours per semester
Workshop	32	Online distance learning tutorials and workshops
Online activity	60	Student-Tutor and Student-Student interaction through online discussion forums and other media
Independent Study	282	Using self-directed learning module resources, textbooks and other resources
Total Workload: 374

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

Part 1: Introduction

- Quantitative and Qualitative Research Methods

- Technology in Psychological Research

- Ethical issues in Psychological Research

Part 2: Qualitative Research Methods

- Qualitative Data Collection Methods – Overview

- Repertory Grids

- Observation

- Ethnography

- Interview Design and Implementation

- Case Study

- Managing Qualitative Data

- Content Analysis

- Grounded Theory

- Multi-Strategy (Mixed Methods) Research

- Reporting Qualitative Research

- Evaluating Qualitative Research

Part 3: Quantitative Research Methods

- Factor Analysis

- Analysis of Variance

- Reporting Quantitative Research

- Evaluating Quantitative Research

- Regression

Part 4: The Research Project Proposal

- Preparing a Project Plan and Research Proposal

Assessment Breakdown
Continuous Assessment	%	Examination Weight	%

Type	Description	% of total	Assessment Date
Course Work Breakdown

Reassessment Requirement
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories; 1 = A resit is available for all components of the module 2 = No resit is available for 100% continuous assessment module 3 = No resit is available for the continuous assessment component
Unavailable

Indicative Reading List

Breakwell, G. M., Smith, J. A. and Wright, D. B. (Eds): 2012, Research Methods in Psychology, Fourth, SAGE Publications Ltd., London [ebook],
Pallant, J.: 2016, SPSS survival manual: A step by step guide to data analysis using IBM SPSS, Sixth, McGraw-Hill Education, Maidenhead, Berkshire, England,
Braun, V. & Clarke, V.: 2013, Successful qualitative research: A practical guide for beginners., Sage, Los Angeles,
Willig, C.: 2013, Introducing qualitative research in psychology, Open University Press, Maidenhead, Berkshire, England [ebook],

Other Resources

None

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