Spring 2008

PSY 418 • Statistics and Research Design - W

Course Description

Statistics and Research Design is a twofold introduction to the science of psychology. We will begin with a comprehensive review of the purpose and use of statistics in the behavioral sciences. We will then use this structure to learn how psychologists investigate and explain observed behavioral phenomena, from hypothesis testing through scholarly publication. There is a heavy emphasis on research design and methodology.

Grading Policy

Exams: There will be two exams. The first will be a statistics exam, the second will be a comprehensive research methods exam. These will contribute 40% to the course. Homework assignments: There will be several homework assignments that contribute 10% to the grade. Report Writing: There will be two experiments conducted in class by the instructor. You will be responsible for analyzing the data from these experiments and reporting the results in APA style. These papers will contribute 20% to the grade. Semester Project: Working in teams of 2-3, students will be responsible for designing and implementing an empirical behavioral study and writing a complete APA style manuscript to report the results. This will contribute 30% to the course grade. The project is judged mostly on the quality of the APA style manuscript and on the overall quality and appropriateness of design and analysis of the project. Attendance: Students are expected to attend every class. Unexcused or excessive absences will affect the grade.

Texts

Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association 5th Edition Interactive Statistics for the Behavioral Sciences Pepper Williams The Research Methods Knowledge Base William M. K. Trochim

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