Introduction in Research Methods

Code

PSGA4021

School

Institute of Work, Organisation and Wellbeing

Level

4

Credits

10

Semesters

Full Year Malaysia

Summary

This module aims to provide students with the knowledge and skills to effectively plan and design research as well as to critically appraise published research. Student will be introduced to how to write a literature review in a systematic way, how to write a research proposal, study designs (including developing research questions), ethics and practical issues when planning and conducting research. The module will also cover designing questionnaires, psychometric issues such as reliability and validity, using interviews and focus groups, and use of the internet and an introduction to online research methods.

Target Students

Any PG-T students from FASS or FOSE, subject to their home programme recognising the module.

Classes

Workshop - 20 hours (Intensive Block)

Assessment

• 100% Coursework 1: Review paper (3,000 words)

Assessed by end of designated period

Learning Outcomes

Knowledge and Understanding

a) Knowledge of research designs used in applied psychology and mental health research

b) Understanding the strengths and limitations of quantitative and qualitative methods

c) awareness of the social, ethical and organisational issues involved in research and  practitioner contexts

d) sound knowledge and understanding of research design

Intellectual Skills

a) Appraisal of scientific methodology of studies in applied psychology and mental health

b) Ability to design applied research

c) analyse and interpret evidence

d) display the skills of problem-solving and reasoning

e) demonstrate skills of independence of thought

f) appraise and critically evaluate

g) apply psychological research methods

h) problem-solve in relation to psychological, social and organisational issues in work and organisational psychology

Professional Practical Skills

a) Awareness of ethical issues in research

b) professional and ethical conduct

Transferable (Key) Skills

a) Written and oral communication skills

b) Critical appraisal of research methods

c) communicate effectively in writing

d) retrieve information from databases and the internet

Conveners

• Dr Siti Khadijah Zainal Badri