Advanced Research Methods and Statistics for Psychology

Course goals

Understanding of research methods and multivariate analysis techniques used in psychological research Reading and appraising scientific articles containing a detailed description of psychological research Performing analyses in a statistical software package and correctly interpreting the output in the light of the research question

Content

This course starts with a general part for all students. The statistical models covered in this part are (in the first 5 weeks):

1. multiple linear regression
2. factorial and multivariate analysis of variance
3. analysis of covariance
4. repeated measures analysis
5. mediation models

Every week, we present an example of the application of the technique in one or more psychological research articles. We present the theory behind the model, how to perform the analysis in statistical software, how to interpret resulting output, and how to critically review the report of a study in an article. Throughout the weeks, several related topics that are relevant for all research will be discussed as well. To give a few examples: reliability and validity, model assumptions and how to deal with violations of these assumption, research integrity (and misconduct), Bayesian statistics, and the open science movement.

After this general part, students follow 2 modules of 2 weeks each, each devoted to a particular theme or statistical model related to specific research designs commonly used within the realm of psychological research. Students indicate their preferences for each of the 8 modules, and will be assigned to two modules. Modules have a maximum capacity, and therefore it is unlikely that everyone will be enrolled in their top-choice modules. Note that the entry to specific master programs is not affected by the choice of modules. Information on the content of these modules and on how to indicate your preferences for these modules will be provided on the Blackboard page of the course.


Note: If you have questions concerning the general part of the course you can contact: arms.general@uu.nl
For questions regarding the modules: arms.modules@uu.nl