PY3082:03
Applied Research Methods
Townsville, Cairns
Prerequisites: Level 2 statistics
26 lectures, 24 tutorials. Second semester.
Staff: Assoc. Professor B Slugoski (Townsville campus); Dr N Caltabiano (Cairns campus).
Townsville campus
This subject introduces students to the designs and statistical methodologies commonly used in applied research settings. It covers surveys, quasi-experiments and descriptive research in combination with multivariate statistical techniques. It focuses on causal and predictive models (most linear models) and data reduction techniques.
Learning Objectives:
- to provide further practical and conceptual grounding for students’ understanding of how surveys, quasi-experimental methods, analytical techniques and statistics can and should be used in the study of human behaviour.
Assessment by research proposal (40%); practical work (30%); final examination (30%).
Cairns campus
This subject provides students with an appreciation and working knowledge of research designs and methodologies which are typically used in applied settings. It covers design and methodological issues relevant to quasi-experiments; correlational studies; descriptive research and unobtrusive measures. The ethical standards for research in applied and experimental settings are also covered.
Learning Objectives:
- to view research in applied settings in a practical and logical manner;
- to apply the methods of scientific research to answer questions and solve problems in field settings;
- to recognise the strengths and limitations of these methodologies;
- to interpret and critically evaluate the results of applied settings;
- to utilise ethical standards in the practice of applied and experimental research.
Assessment by research proposal (30%); questionnaire (15%); poster presentation (15%); end of semester examination (40%).