Experimental Psychology

This course is designed to introduce students to the philosophy,

principles, and methods of scientific research in experimental psychology.

Students will learn how to plan, conduct and analyze their own

experimental research, and how to communicate the results of their

research to others. Students will develop the knowledge and skills to

apply and critique the scientific method in future courses (e.g.

empirical/theoretical paper, master thesis).

This course is designed to introduce students to the philosophy,

principles, and methods of scientific research in experimental psychology.

Students will learn how to plan, conduct and analyze their own

experimental research, and how to communicate the results of their

research to others. Students will develop the knowledge and skills to

apply and critique the scientific method in future courses (e.g.

empirical/theoretical paper, master thesis).

Course objectives:

 To help students become (more) comfortable with experimental

research. Although our goal is not (necessarily) to master

computational aspects of statistics, students will be expected to

master some statistical concepts.

 To develop an understanding of the language, methods, and

standards of scientific research.

 To enable students to generate research questions of interest,

and teach them how they can use the tools of research and

statistical methods to address their questions. This includes

learning how to phrase research questions, formulating

hypotheses, conducting computerized/internet literature

searches, following ethical principles, selecting an appropriate

design and sampling strategy, forming appropriate conclusions,

and writing a paper that effectively describes the research. If one

cannot effectively communicate one’s research findings, those

findings will remain generally unknown.

 To develop an appreciation of the need for a commitment to

research as part of the life of scientist or/and professional

psychologists.

 To help students develop a general spirit of inquiry and an ability

Upon successful completion of the course, a student will be able to:

 Correctly cite, quote and reference according to APA-style

 Clearly communicate:

o Rationale/underlying logic of a research idea and hypotheses

o Empirical results of a study

o Meaning of research findings in terms of theory and the study

design

 Develop a research idea into testable/ operationalized predictions

(hypotheses)

 Test hypotheses selecting the appropriate research design and

measures

 Work with research participants in accordance with applicable ethical

standards