Course Resources Archive

This module helps students to understand the basis of psychology as a research led discipline, and to develop the skills necessary to engage in scientific, empirical, and critical thinking. The module introduces epistemology in psychology, showing that there are competing "ways of knowing" that psychologists adopt. A common theme underlying these ways of knowing is the importance of systematically gathered evidence. The role of evidence is examined through the development of skills of logical and critical reasoning, and further developed through considering how research methods allow the production of evidence. The module introduces a range of quantitative and qualitative research methods, and develops skills of research design.

Epistemology in psychology

Evidence in psychology

Critical thinking

Psychology as science

Quantitative research methods, including experimentation, survey and observation

Qualitative methods, including interviewing

Visualising and summarising data

Issues in and alternatives to scientific psychology

Study and employability skills

Students who pass the module will be able to demonstrate:

1. An understanding of the use of the scientific method as a way of knowing for psychology.
2. Awareness of epistemological debates in psychology.
3. Skills of critical thinking.
4. The ability to design research projects.
5. Skills of data collection and description.
6. The ability to reflect on their personal development.

The Library Catalogue contains full details of the current reading list for this module. Further details may also be found in the Module Guide.