ISI - PSYC 385 - Research Methods
Course Description
Research Methods is designed to provide students with an introduction to the basics of research design. There will be an emphasis on quantitative research employing a variety of methods. The process will be examined from conceptualization, design, analysis, to generalization and the issues that arise at each step. There will be an emphasis on identifying and critiquing designs.
This course develops students' ability to design an empirical study within the ethical constraints of human research and to understand the results of research in professional journals. Specific research designs covered include archival research, experimental designs, naturalistic observation, participant observation, quasi- experimental designs, single subject designs, and survey research. Integrates (1) analytical and evaluative thinking, (2) descriptive, explanatory, and critical writing, and (3) basic knowledge of the theory and application of qualitative and quantitative research design.
REQUIRED: Exam proctor required for this course.
Learner Outcomes
Upon completion of the course, the student:
- will demonstrate knowledge of ethical and legal considerations in research;
- will be familiar with sources of reference materials (e.g., journals);
- will understand threats to internal and external validity and reliability;
- will distinguish between experimental and non-experimental research and the limitations of conclusions drawn from each;
- will recognize a variety of experimental and non-experimental research designs and know the advantages and disadvantages of each;
- will be able to identify and differentiate independent variables, dependent variables, and participant variables;
- will demonstrate an understanding of important statistical terms, methods, and values commonly used in research design and analysis;
- will be able to read and correctly analyze a variety of types of research.
Required Course Materials
Cozby, P. C., & Bates, S. C. (2018). Methods in Behavioral Research (13th edition). McGraw-Hill.
- Loose leaf: ISBN10: 1259898784 | ISBN13: 9781259898785
- Hardcopy: ISBN10: 1259676986 | ISBN13: 9781259676987
- Digital: ISBN10: 125989875X | ISBN13: 9781259898754 (WARNING! 6 month access!)
Expected Course Timeline
Most ISI courses are designed so that students can complete them within 3 months to 1 year. If you are attempting to complete a course more quickly than this, please contact ISI to explore your options.
Sponsor Institution
Credits earned for this course are included in a LC State transcript.
This is an INDEPENDENT STUDY IN IDAHO course
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Prerequisites
The equivalent of ENGL 102 Writing and Rhetoric II or ENGL 109 College Writing and Research, and a total of 24 credit hours in the LC State General Education Core or instructor permission.- ISI - ENGL 102 - Writing and Rhetoric II (Complete)
- EP0036 - ISI - PSYC 385 Pre-Req Transc