Description
This module will introduce you to some contemporary theoretical debates between psychologists, with individual sessions reflecting the research specialism of staff. You will build on existing skills in critically evaluating peer reviewed research and reflecting on how theoretical knowledge is applied to the development of research questions, with a view to informing your own research interests.
Aims
The aim of this module is to refine students- skills in critically evaluating the peer-reviewed literature and understanding conceptual debates and advanced concepts within psychology. Through active participation in weekly classes, students will see how the core domains of psychology underpin the development of research questions and will be introduced to `hot topics- examined in psychological research at Abertay and beyond. Students will develop their own theoretical precision and ability to critically evaluate the peer-reviewed literature. This will benefit students in drawing on evidence to make well rounded and well-informed arguments in many different contexts.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this module the student should be able to:
- Examine and understand cutting-edge research into human behaviour and the emerging field of `meta-science-.
- Compare the assumptions and concepts of different fields within behavioural science.
- Understand links between evidence, explanation, and application in psychological research.
- Critical evaluation of an evidence base to inform research decisions. Engage in self-reflection on the students- own research interests.
- Use theories from the core domains of psychology to show insight in writing and guide the development of research questions.
Indicative Content
1 `Meta-science- and current directions in psychological science
Building on existing knowledge and considering how `meta-science- reduces waste and improves the quality of scientific output, by using the scientific method to study the processes involved in science itself.
2 Critical evaluation of current research topics and approaches
Staff sessions on their own field of expertise. Critically evaluating a scientific research seminar from an external speaker. Triangulation and insight garnered from diverse approaches (e.g., qualitative, biological, comparative, cross-cultural). Reflection on future research directions.
3 Applications of Psychological Science
Using recent examples to critically evaluate applied psychological approaches. Secondary data analysis. What do scientists mean by `impact-?
| Teaching and Learning Method | Hours |
|---|---|
| Lecture | 0 |
| Tutorial/Seminar | 24 |
| Supervised Practical Activity | 0 |
| Unsupervised Practical Activity | 0 |
| Assessment | 26 |
| Independent | 150 |
Guidance Notes
SCQF Level - The Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework provides an indication of the complexity of award qualifications and associated learning and operates on an ascending numeric scale from Levels 1-12 with SCQF Level 10 equating to a Scottish undergraduate Honours degree.
Credit Value – The total value of SCQF credits for the module. 20 credits are the equivalent of 10 ECTS credits. A full-time student should normally register for 60 SCQF credits per semester.
Disclaimer
We make every effort to ensure that the information on our website is accurate but it is possible that some changes may occur prior to the academic year of entry. The modules listed in this catalogue are offered subject to availability during academic year 2024/5, and may be subject to change for future years.