PSYC1040 Edx Modules 1-7 Notes

Summary:

The course introduces the Science of Psychology through modules emphasizing the scientific method and its application to psychological research. Students learn to understand and appreciate the scientific and research bases of psychology, identify and apply appropriate research designs and measurements, explore and analyze research data, design and conduct simple research studies, and develop skills in scientific report writing. Psychology is a research-based scientific discipline, and the course highlights the importance of evidence-based understanding. The science of psychology aims to describe, explain, predict, and control behaviour through theories and hypotheses that summarize existing knowledge, outline relationships, and serve as a basis for further investigation. Hypotheses are tested through experiments that reduce outside influence and data noise. Statistics help decide which hypothesis is favoured and test for chance explanations of observed differences. The course emphasizes five principles of science: objectivity, scepticism, open-mindedness, tentativeness, and independence from authority. All scientific claims must be supported by solid, observable, and carefully evaluated evidence that is open to revision based on future observations. The course also covers Experimental and Non-Experimental research designs and emphasizes research ethics, including respect for the dignity of persons and peoples, competent caring for their well-being, integrity, and professional and scientific responsibilities to society. Experimental designs include true randomized experiments, independent groups, and repeated measures that allow for causal inferences. Non-experimental designs, such as observational studies and quasi-experiments, do not permit causal inferences. The course involves readings and review questions from Grove’s “The scientific process and experimental design,” with successful completion indicating material comprehension.

Excerpt:

PSYC1040 Edx Modules 1-7 Notes

Course Introduction
Module 1: The Science of Psychology Part 1

Psychology is the scientific study of behaviour and its physiological, cognitive (mental processes) and social bases. It is a research-based, scientific discipline and Psychological Research Methodology I will introduce you to the theory and practice of research in psychology.

In this course, you will learn about the following:

• science and the scientific method
• research methodologies, techniques and designs
• the practice and problems of measurement in psychology
• exploring, displaying, describing and analysing research data
• scientific report writing in psychology