Advanced Quantitative Research Skills | PSYC3064

Module overview

The Advanced Quantitative Research Skills module is focused on extending existing skills in analyzing data from quantitative research. The module consists of two parts. In the first part programming skills in R are being learned. In the second, students will learn how to perform mediation and moderation analyses in SPSS.

We strongly recommend students to have at least a 2:1 in PSYC2019 as PSYC3064 is an advanced statistics module and the materials covered in PSYC2019 will not be repeated but will be built upon.

Linked modules

Pre-requisites: PSYC1010 AND PSYC1019 AND PSYC2019

Aims and Objectives

Learning Outcomes

Subject Specific Intellectual and Research Skills

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

Data visualisation - learning how to create high-quality figures, especially associated with more complex analyses (e.g. three dimensional scatter plots, Trellis displays, etc.).
Scripting - programming an analysis in such a way that the script can be used with minimal effort for similar datasets and analyses and for especially large datasets
Data manipulation - acquiring skills in flexible matrix manipulation
Understanding the distinction between mediation on moderation
Performing and interpreting mediation and moderation analyses
Implementation of statistical procedures within the R environment and SPSS

Syllabus

This module is divided into two main components. The first component is Introduction into the R. language, implementing Basic Statistical Methods and the General Linear Model (t-tests, ANOVA’s, correlation, and regressions) in R.

A specific focus will be on scripting, data manipulation and advanced data visualisation. No prior knowledge concerning computer programming is required.

The second component focuses on understanding, conducting, and interpreting mediations and moderation analyses in SPSS. Students will also learn how to report results following APA guidance.

Learning and Teaching

Study time
Type	Hours
Follow-up work	24
Revision	100
Lecture	26
Total study time	150

Resources & Reading list

Textbooks

Alain Zuur, Elena Ieno, & Erik Meesters (2009). A Beginner's Guide To R.. Springer.

Hayes, A. F (2003). Introduction to mediation, moderation, and conditional process analysis: A regression-based approach. New York, NY, US: Guilford Press.

Assessment

Summative

This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.

Breakdown
Method	Percentage contribution
Final Assessment	49%
Research Participation	1%
Written assignment	50%

Referral

This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.

Breakdown
Method	Percentage contribution
Assessment	100%

Repeat Information

Repeat type: Internal & External