PYM0CP-Methods in Clinical Psychology

Module Provider: Psychology
Number of credits: 10 [5 ECTS credits]
Level:7
Terms in which taught: Autumn / Spring term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites: PYM0S1 Data Collection and Analysis 1 PYM0S2 Data Collection and Analysis 2
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2019/0

Email: k.n.harvey@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

The purpose of this module is to inform students about some of the methods used in research in clinical psychology.  The focus is on methodological issues in the study of clinical psychology, and its purpose is to inform students about some of the research methods used.

Aims:

The module aims to acquaint students with a variety of approaches to research in clinical psychology: specifically, Our overall aims are to equip students both to evaluate existing research in clinical areas, and to design and plan new studies.

Assessable learning outcomes:

By the end of the module, students should be able to:

1. Interpret and evaluate research articles in the areas of clinical psychological research that have been reviewed.


2. Show understanding of key aspects research design, for example how to obtain data, statistical power, ethical considerations.


3. Demonstrate the ability to plan and design a clinical research study.

Assessment will be by written coursework. The assignment will be a research proposal to address a clinical research question.

Additional outcomes:

This module will inform students’ empirical project (PYM0EP), subsequent postgraduate work/study in clinical psychology.

Outline content:

Seminar 1: Clinical Researchers

Seminar 2: Introduction to Qualitative Research

Seminar 3: Methods for Clinical Research

Seminar 4: Randomised Controlled Trials

Seminar 5: Introduction to Systematic Reviews

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

Seminars will last around 3 hours and will consist structured overview of the topic alongside discussion and other activities, in which students will be expected to participate.

Summative assessment- Examinations:

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

Students will submit a 1500-word proposal for a research study that addresses a clinically relevant question of their choice.  The assignment will be submitted in the Spring term.

Formative assessment methods:

Students will be invited to submit the research question that their proposed study aims to address for feedback.  Students will engage in seminar discussions and other in-class activities.

Penalties for late submission:
Penalties for late submission on this module are in accordance with the University policy. Please refer to page 5 of the Postgraduate Guide to Assessment for further information: http://www.reading.ac.uk/internal/exams/student/exa-guidePG.aspx

Assessment requirements for a pass:
50%

Reassessment arrangements:

If a student fails the assignment, an alternative, equivalent assignment can be submitted.  The assignment and date of submission will be by arrangement with the Module Convenor and/or Programme Director. Students should note however that, given the University regulations on failing credits, it may not be in their interests to resubmit the coursework.

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):
1) Required text books:
2) Specialist equipment or materials:
3) Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear:
4) Printing and binding:
5) Computers and devices with a particular specification:
6) Travel, accommodation and subsistence:

Last updated: 16 September 2019