PSYC50260: Dissertation

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• To provide students with experience in the design, implementation, analysis, and discussion of an empirical project relevant to their field of study;
• To give students the opportunity to apply knowledge of theoretical principles, research skills, and statistical techniques;
• To provide experience of the complete life cycle of a research project;
• To provide experience of collaboration with researchers and other professionals, and experience in research management.

• Michaelmas term: Question formulation; Literature searching: use of internet tools for psychology; Reviewing and evaluating the literature; Preparing a research proposal and time plan; Preparing an ethics application.
• Epiphany Term: Recruitment of sample; Design of study and preparation of method and materials; Piloting; Data Collection.
• Easter Term and Summer: Data Collection; Analysis and interpretation of data; Writing up thesis.

Subject-specific Knowledge:

• Specialised knowledge of a range of advanced research methods and techniques, and an ability to critically appraise their use for specific purposes;
• Ability to recognise how historical and theoretical assumptions influence theory construction and research design;
• In-depth theoretical knowledge of a specific topic area related to developmental psychology/ psychopathology, cognitive neuroscience or behavioural science, and critical awareness of emerging issues in the field;

Subject-specific Skills:

• Skill in formulating, designing, and appropriately testing a researchable question;
• Research management skills, and understanding of ethical and professional issues and BPS codes of practice;

Key Skills:

• Professional skills in communicating with research participants and organisations, advanced bibliographic and computing skills, skills of scholarly expression, and ability to take responsibility for own learning.

• Teaching on this module is through introductory lectures and individual or small group supervision sessions with dissertation supervisors.
• Formative assessment on this module is through a written ethics proposal and research protocol
• Summative assessment on this module is through a written dissertation

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