PS904-10 Practical Research Skills for Psychology (ESRC DTP Version)
Introductory description
The overall aim of this module is to provide advanced training in methods for studying human behaviour.
Module aims
TThe main themes are computer programming for designing and analyzing experiments, eye movement measurement and analysis, measuring and analysing physiological variables (e.g., EDA, HRV, facial EMG) and an introduction to basic imaging techniques. No prior computer programming knowledge is assumed. The training is delivered via a combination of lecture / practical sessions and homework programming exercises.
Outline syllabus
This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.
This module will cover computer programming looking at variables and data types, programming structure and functions and 2 and 3D graphics. It will look at basic physiological measurements and a number of ways in which these can be conducted using different equipment.
Learning outcomes
By the end of the module, students should be able to:
- - Evaluate and critique the appropriateness of key experimental methods available for assessing human performance.
- - Design and implement advanced and novel console, 2D and 3D computer programmes for PC, Mac and Linux based systems.
- - Analyse and debug computer code (emphasis on Blitzmax but application to other languages).
- - Identify and critically evaluate when physiological measures are appropriate in psychological research.
- - Identify and evaluate the most appropriate analysis techniques for eye-movement and physiological measures of human behaviour.
Indicative reading list
Blitzmax programming language, tutorials and resources: https://blitzmax.org/ Boucsein, W. (2012).
Electrodermal Activity. Spring. Fisher, D.L., Rizzo, M., Caird, J., & Lee, J.D. (2017).
Handbook of Driving Simulation for Engineering, Medicine, and Psychology. CRC Press. Rayner, K. (1998).
Eye movements in reading and information processing: 20 years of research. Psychological Bulletin, 124, 372-422.
For extending what you learn to other languages (Python and Javascript) please see:
Hall, T., & Stacey, J.P. (2009). Python 3 for absolute beginners. Springer Langtangen, H.P. (2009). Python scripting for computational science. Springer McNavage, T. (2010). Javascript for absolute beginners. Springer
View reading list on Talis Aspire
Subject specific skills
- Understanding of experimental methods
- Experience of programming of 2D and 3D models
- Understanding of computer coding
Transferable skills
- Critical evaluation
- Understanding of analytical techniques
- Programming skills
Study time
| Type | Required |
|---|---|
| Lectures | 9 sessions of 1 hour (9%) |
| Practical classes | 9 sessions of 1 hour (9%) |
| Private study | 82 hours (82%) |
| Total | 100 hours |
Private study description
hours of study and preparation for assessment
Costs
No further costs have been identified for this module.
You must pass all assessment components to pass the module.
Assessment group A1
| Weighting | Study time | Eligible for self-certification | |
|---|---|---|---|
Assessment component |
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| Practical report | 100% | Yes (extension) | |
|
4000 practical report from a choice of two:
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Reassessment component is the same |
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Feedback on assessment
Formative feedback: during practical sessions/lab follow-up sessions. Summative feedback: written feedback and comments on practical reports.
Courses
This module is Optional for:
- Year 1 of TIMA-L981 Postgraduate Social Science Research