Module overview
The Advanced Quantitative Research Skills 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:
- Performing and interpreting mediation and moderation analyses
- 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
- Implementation of statistical procedures within the R environment and SPSS
- Understanding the distinction between mediation on moderation
- Data manipulation - acquiring skills in flexible matrix manipulation
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
Type | Hours |
---|---|
Follow-up work | 24 |
Lecture | 26 |
Revision | 100 |
Total study time | 150 |
Resources & Reading list
Textbooks
Hayes, A. F (2003). Introduction to mediation, moderation, and conditional process analysis: A regression-based approach. New York, NY, US: Guilford Press.
Alain Zuur, Elena Ieno, & Erik Meesters (2009). A Beginner's Guide To R.. Springer.
Assessment
Summative
This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.
Method | Percentage contribution |
---|---|
Assessment | 50% |
Assessment | 49% |
Research Participation | 1% |
Referral
This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.
Method | Percentage contribution |
---|---|
Assessment | 100% |
Repeat Information
Repeat type: Internal & External