PSYC 202 Research Methods
This course will provide an introduction to the methodologies used in psychological research. Topics will include naturalistic observation, correlational and regression methods, reliability and validity of measurements. Special attention will be given to techniques that control or reduce error variance. Students will also be introduced to and become proficient with the technical writing style of the American Psychological Association (APA). This course will provide a basic foundation for the understanding of the research process and is intended as a prerequisite for other 300-level psychology courses in which such knowledge is essential.
Offered
Fall
Student Learning Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate familiarity with the major concepts, theoretical perspectives, empirical findings, and historical trends in psychology.
- Students will understand and apply basic research methods in psychology, including research design, data analysis, and interpretation.
- Students will respect and use critical and creative thinking, skeptical inquiry, and, when possible, the scientific approach to solve problems related to behavior and mental processes.
- Students will understand and apply psychological principles to personal, social, and organizational issues.
- Students will be able to weigh evidence, tolerate ambiguity, act ethically, and reflect other values that are the underpinnings of psychology as a discipline.
- Demonstrate information competence and the ability to use computers and other technology for many purposes.
- Students will communicate effectively in a variety of formats.