COURSE DESCRIPTION:

This course is an introduction to the research methods used by psychologists. We will examine many different research designs but we will focus primarily on the experimental design. In addition, we will discuss the many choices that psychologists must make when designing and conducting a study from start to finish.

• Learn the definitions of major terms related to research design and methodology and how to apply these terms to relevant studies (e.g., independent and dependent variables, internal validity, etc).
• Learn to critically think about research designs and to evaluate both your own research and that of others.
• Learn to conduct an experiment from start to finish, including a literature search, data analysis, and presentation of findings, both oral and written (Powerpoint and APA style, respectively).
• Learn to use the statistical software, SPSS, for data management and analysis.

REQUIRED TEXT/READINGS:

Smith, R. A., & Davis, S. F. (2001). The Psychologist as Detective, 2^nd edition, New Jersey: Prentice-Hall.

Exams:

There will be four exams. Each exam is worth 100 points. The format of the exams may vary, but you can expect multiple choice and short answer. Exams will cover material from the text, in-class lectures, and discussions. Each exam is comprehensive in the sense that any previous course material is likely to be relevant to the current test material and is therefore "fair game".

Throughout the semester I will give you take-home assignments that require you to apply the knowledge you have learned thus far. There will be four assignments each worth 25 points. All assignments are to be typed (12pt. font, 1" margins, double-spaced). A point will be deducted for each day that an assignment is late (including weekends). You may submit them by email.

As part of a group, you will conduct an experimental study. Throughout the semester you will be asked to report on the progress your group has made toward this objective. Your grade on the project will be based on your contribution to the overall project. Each group will keep a detailed logbook of each member’s efforts and contributions to the project. It is your responsibility to record the specific activity and amount of time you spent working on any part of the project (no matter how seemingly insignificant). Not every member will work on every aspect (e.g., data analysis, literature search). The group members will determine the distribution of work among members. However, grades will be based on both the quality and quantity of individual contribution. Therefore, it is in your best interest to put in considerable effort and time on the project, which is worth 100 points.

Your grade will be based on the percentage of points you earn toward a total of 600. Each exam, assignment, and project will contribute to your total points. The following table shows the minimum points needed in order to earn a particular grade. I have also included reminders of what a grade indicates. Keep these in mind when working on your assignments.

Although attendance is not calculated in your grade, it will be difficult to pass the class without attending regularly. I do not allow makeup exams, however, you may arrange an early exam if you have a legitimate and verifiable excuse for being absent on the day of an exam. Please notify me if extenuating circumstances prevent you from attending class regularly.

You can find the following information by going to my website: a copy of the syllabus, old exams, relevant links in psychology, and much more. Remember to hit the REFRESH/RELOAD button each time you access my site so that the most up-to-date information will come up.

Http://www.milligan.edu/social/Jdrinnon/jdhome.htm