Methods for Quantitative Research in Psychology from Coursera

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Syllabus

Learn With PsycLearn Essentials

This module introduces you to your PsycLearn Essentials course. Find out what’s included in this course and how to navigate the modules and lessons. You’ll also learn valuable study tips for successful learning.

Introduction to Methods for Quantitative Research in Psychology

Scientific Psychology

As the backbone of all science, the scientific method is a systematic approach to generating new knowledge by collecting data to answer a research question.

Variables and Measurement

Data are the currency of science, each data point a recording of a measurement on some scale, each point representing one value of a variable that uses that scale. This module explains how psychologists define and use variables and how we measure the values of those variables when we collect data.

Research Designs

Different research questions and variables call for different research designs. This module describes the four basic research designs, how they work, and the kinds of data they yield.

Interpretation: How Valid Are Our Conclusions?

Conclusions in science are always tentative—new evidence may force us to reconsider them, or a once valid-seeming proposition can be rendered invalid on a reconsideration of existing evidence. this module considers different forms of validity and how they are evaluated.

Conclusion

Course Assessment

PsycLearn Essentials APA Student Resources

This module provides a variety of information and tools from the American Psychological Association (APA) that will help inspire you as you complete your coursework and plan your career goals. Get discounted access to Academic Writer, APA’s online tool for writing effectively, as well as valuable advice that will help you develop and strengthen your skillset for learning success and future employment. Additionally, explore resources on various psychological issues. This module also includes APA resources on scholarly research and writing; a list of sites providing valuable resources on diversity, equity, and inclusion in psychology education and in the professional community; resources on a career in psychology; and links to career opportunities at the APA. You can also view videos that offer tips on dealing with stress.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Introduces the core research methods used in psychology, making it suitable for psychology undergraduates

Has a strong focus on data analysis and measurement techniques, making it a good choice for those interested in quantitative research

Taught by Mike Stadler, PhD, a respected researcher and educator in the field of psychology

Covers a comprehensive range of topics in psychological research methods, including experimental design, data analysis, and statistical inference

Provides resources and materials from the American Psychological Association (APA), offering additional support and guidance

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Methods for Quantitative Research in Psychology with these activities:

Review Basic Statistics Concepts

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Strengthen your foundation in basic statistics for a smoother learning experience.

Browse courses on Basic Statistics

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Review lecture notes or textbook chapters on basic statistical concepts.
Practice solving simple statistical problems.

Utilize Khan Academy for Introduction to Hypothesis Testing

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Reinforce your understanding of hypothesis testing by following a structured tutorial.

Browse courses on Hypothesis Testing

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Create a Khan Academy account.
Search for the "Hypothesis Testing" topic.
Complete the interactive exercises and videos.

Volunteer at a Research Lab

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Gain hands-on experience in data collection and analysis by volunteering in a research lab.

Browse courses on Research Methods

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Research local research labs that align with your interests.
Contact the lab and inquire about volunteer opportunities.
Attend the volunteer training sessions provided by the lab.
Assist with data collection and other research-related tasks under the guidance of experienced researchers.

Five other activities

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Organize a Study Group for Research Design

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Enhance your understanding of research design principles through collaborative learning.

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Find a group of peers with similar interests.
Plan the study group meetings and decide on topics to discuss.
Meet regularly to share knowledge and insights.

Solve Practice Problems on Research Methods

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Enhance your data analysis skills by solving practice problems.

Browse courses on Research Methods

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Find practice problems from reputable sources such as textbooks or academic journals.
Solve the problems independently.
Check your answers and identify areas for improvement.

Design an Infographic on Variables and Measurement

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Deepen your understanding of variables and measurement by creating a visual representation.

Browse courses on Quantitative Research

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Gather information on variables and measurement.
Choose an appropriate infographic template.
Design the infographic using clear and concise language.
Share your infographic with others for feedback.

Develop a Research Proposal on a Topic of Interest

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Apply your knowledge of research methods by creating a comprehensive research proposal.

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Choose a research topic that aligns with your interests.
Conduct a literature review to gather background information.
Develop a research question and hypothesis.
Design the research methodology and data analysis plan.
Write the research proposal.

Participate in a Data Analysis Competition

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Challenge yourself and apply your skills in a competitive data analysis environment.

Browse courses on Data Analysis

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Find a data analysis competition relevant to your interests.
Form a team or work independently.
Analyze the data and prepare your submission.
Submit your entry and evaluate your performance.

Career center

Learners who complete Methods for Quantitative Research in Psychology will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Data Analyst

Data Analysts collect, clean, and analyze data to identify trends and patterns. They use their findings to help businesses make better decisions. This course can help you develop the skills you need to be a successful Data Analyst, including data collection, analysis, and interpretation.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst

Market Researcher

Market Researchers study consumer behavior to help businesses understand their customers. They use a variety of methods to collect data, including surveys, interviews, and focus groups. This course can help you develop the skills you need to be a successful Market Researcher, including data collection, analysis, and interpretation.

See salaries and explore the career path for Market Researcher

Biostatistician

Biostatisticians use statistical methods to design and analyze research studies in the medical and health sciences. They work with scientists and clinicians to develop new treatments and improve patient care. This course can help you develop the skills you need to be a successful Biostatistician, including data collection, analysis, and interpretation.

See salaries and explore the career path for Biostatistician

Epidemiologist

Epidemiologists study the distribution and causes of disease in populations. They use a variety of methods to collect data, including surveys, interviews, and medical records. This course can help you develop the skills you need to be a successful Epidemiologist, including data collection, analysis, and interpretation.

See salaries and explore the career path for Epidemiologist

Survey Researcher

Survey Researchers design and conduct surveys to collect data on a variety of topics. They use their findings to help businesses, governments, and non-profit organizations make better decisions. This course can help you develop the skills you need to be a successful Survey Researcher, including data collection, analysis, and interpretation.

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Pollster

Pollsters design and conduct polls to measure public opinion on a variety of issues. They use their findings to help politicians, businesses, and non-profit organizations make better decisions. This course can help you develop the skills you need to be a successful Pollster, including data collection, analysis, and interpretation.

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Quantitative Psychologist

Quantitative Psychologists use statistical methods to study human behavior. They work with researchers, clinicians, and educators to design and conduct research studies, analyze data, and interpret results. This course can help you develop the skills you need to be a successful Quantitative Psychologist, including data collection, analysis, and interpretation.

See salaries and explore the career path for Quantitative Psychologist

Operations Research Analyst

Operations Research Analysts use mathematical and statistical methods to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of organizations. They work with businesses, governments, and non-profit organizations to develop and implement solutions to a variety of problems. This course can help you develop the skills you need to be a successful Operations Research Analyst, including data collection, analysis, and interpretation.

See salaries and explore the career path for Operations Research Analyst

Statistician

Statisticians use mathematical and statistical methods to collect, analyze, and interpret data. They work with a variety of organizations, including businesses, governments, and non-profit organizations, to help them make informed decisions. This course can help you develop the skills you need to be a successful Statistician, including data collection, analysis, and interpretation.

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Financial Analyst

Financial Analysts use financial data to evaluate investments and make recommendations to clients. They work with individuals, businesses, and governments to help them make informed financial decisions. This course can help you develop the skills you need to be a successful Financial Analyst, including data collection, analysis, and interpretation.

See salaries and explore the career path for Financial Analyst

Actuary

Actuaries use mathematical and statistical methods to assess risk and uncertainty. They work with insurance companies, pension funds, and other financial institutions to develop products and services that protect people from financial loss. This course can help you develop the skills you need to be a successful Actuary, including data collection, analysis, and interpretation.

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Psychometrician

Psychometricians develop and use psychological tests to measure human abilities and traits. They work with psychologists, educators, and researchers to develop tests that are valid and reliable. This course can help you develop the skills you need to be a successful Psychometrician, including data collection, analysis, and interpretation.

See salaries and explore the career path for Psychometrician

Software Engineer

Software Engineers design, develop, and maintain software systems. They work with a variety of organizations, including businesses, governments, and non-profit organizations, to develop software solutions to a variety of problems. This course may be useful if you are interested in becoming a Software Engineer.

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Data Scientist

Data Scientists use a variety of statistical and programming techniques to extract insights from data. They work with businesses, governments, and non-profit organizations to help them make better decisions. This course may be useful if you are interested in becoming a Data Scientist.

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Web Developer

Web Developers design and develop websites. They work with a variety of organizations, including businesses, governments, and non-profit organizations, to create websites that are user-friendly and effective. This course may be useful if you are interested in becoming a Web Developer.

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Methods for Quantitative Research in Psychology

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