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Module details for 2025/26.

15 credits

FHEQ Level 5

Full Module Description

This module complements the term 1 module 'Discovering Statistics'. It has three components: (a) advanced statistical analysis for various linear models and questionnaire construction and interpretation; (b) observational methods; (c) qualitative data-gathering and analysis. There is one assessed empirical report using some of these techniques, which will enable students to develop skills in research design, data-gathering and analysis and which will therefore equip students for their empirical research projects. There is also an assessed problem set that gives students the opportunity to develop their critical thinking around validity and operationalisation. The statistical analysis parts of the module build upon existing knowledge of statistical theory (in term 1 module). Practical workshops complement the lectures by providing hands-on experience and guidance in using the methods and through small group work on relevant tasks, and encourage consistent development of statistical skills and critical thinking through weekly quizzes.
This module builds on knowledge gained in the core psychology modules C8511: Psychology as a science; C8891: Analysing data; and C8552 Discovering Statistics. Students who are not enrolled on the BSc Psychology course at Sussex are expected to be familiar with the material covered in these modules.

Module Outline

This module aims to equip students with theoretical understanding and an ability to practically implement and analyse diverse research methods such as qualitative designs, surveys based on self-report scales, and observational research. The overarching themes throughout the module are around measurement and methodological diversity within psychology. There is one assessed empirical report using some of these research approaches. Practical workshops complement the lectures by providing hands-on experience in using the presented methods and through small group work, and encourage assessment of understanding and critical thinking through weekly quizzes. This module builds on knowledge gained in previous core psychology methods modules.

Module learning outcomes

Apply principles of scale development and scale validation to critically evaluate and effectively communicate strengths and weaknesses of existing and new scales.

Critically understand key principles and practice of observational methods, such as sampling issues, coding, and inter-rater reliability estimates.

Demonstrate a systematic understanding and an ability to initiate critical analysis of qualitative research methodologies applied to psychological questions.

Interpret a range of statistical models fitted using R.

C8300 Social Research Methods 2016-17 sample paper

View timetable

Timing

Submission deadlines may vary for different types of assignment/groups of students.

Weighting

Coursework components (if listed) total 100% of the overall coursework weighting value.

How to read the week pattern

The numbers indicate the weeks of the term and how many events take place each week.

Dr Vlad Costin

Assess convenor, Convenor
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