The Nature of Psychological Inquiry

Description

This is a course in behavioural research methodology.  Its primary aim is to develop an understanding of a variety of methods that are important in carrying out psychological research.  Science is properly concerned with the detection of empirical phenomena and the constructuion of theories to explain those phenomena.  Thus, in this course an equal emphasis is given to data related methods that are used to discover psychological phenomena, and methods that are used to construct psychological theories.

A general theory of scientific method is presented at the beginning of the course.  This general theory is used as a unifying framework for examining a number of more specific research methods.  Both quantitative and qualitative methods are considered.  The topics and methods to be covered will include the following: the nature of methodology, scientific method, a model of data analysis, meta-analysis structural equation modelling, statistical significance testing, Bayesian statistical inference, the theory of explanatory coherence, grounded theory method, and evaluation methodology.

Students are expected to read conscientiously and encouraged to develop a critical perspective on the methods covered.  Each method will be treated in terms of its history, its underlying logic, its appropriate research goals, and the critical issues that arise from its use.  The course will emphasize the conceptual understanding of the methods and the need to make informed decisions about their proper use.  The assignments are designed to help students attain these objectives.

PSYC206 Research Design & Statistics and PSYC344 Research Methods in Psychology are recommended preparation for this course.