PSYC 545 - Graduate Research Design and Evaluation

Credit Hours: 3

This course will focus on research design for descriptive and experimental studies in the field of psychology, with an emphasis on statistical analysis of data, methods of conducting program evaluation, and empirically-based decision making. Students will use this information to think critically about appropriate methods for studying different types of behaviors, as well as consider how to carefully evaluate research designs used in the field. This course also will train students on the evaluation of existing programs, to determine their efficacy and application in psychological settings. The course is designed to provide students with experience in conducting a supervised research project related to a topic or issue in psychology. Toward this end, students will formulate and address an original research question via several options, including descriptive or experimental design or program evaluation. The student’s research project will culminate in an APA-formatted written report and presentation.