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Module Descriptions

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UoR Home > Module Descriptions > PYM0S2: Data Collection & Analysis 2

PYM0S2: Data Collection & Analysis 2

Module Provider:

Psychology

Number of credits:

10 [5 ECTS credits]

Level:

M

Terms in which taught:

Autumn

Module Convenor:

Dr EA Gaffan

Pre-requisites:

PYM0S1

Co-requisites:

Modules excluded:

Current from:

2005/6

Aims:
The module will extend students' theoretical and practical knowledge of data analysis, and of general statistical concepts such as general linear models. It will provide the statistical skills needed for research where individual differences are important - e.g. psychometrics, attitude measurement, experiments with natural or variable groups.

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

  • show knowledge of the purpose of each statistical technique covered, its assumptions and limitations.
  • show understanding of the foundations of two strategies that underlie all the statistical techniques - (1) general linear modelling (2) reducing multiple variables to a smaller number of dimensions or components.
  • choose appropriate techniques from those taught to test hypotheses about provided psychological data.
  • use SPSS to implement the techniques, and interpret the results.
    Assessment will be by a data analysis assignment of a provided set of data to test specific hypotheses, choosing from statistical methods covered in the module and using SPSS. The written report should justify the methods used, present the results of the analysis, interpret them and comment on the validity of the analyses.

  • Additional outcomes:
    The content of this module will be drawn upon in many parts of the programme, in practical assignments (PYM0RD, PYM0EP) and in theoretical or evaluative aspects of other modules.

    Outline content:
    Simple, multiple and logistic regression. General linear models. Analysis of covariance. Principal component analysis. Reliability analysis.

    Brief description of teaching and learning methods:
    1. Directed reading of books and articles, done in advance of associated seminars.
    2. Lectures on principles of statistical techniques, their assumptions, purpose and limitations, followed by seminar discussions drawing on the lectures and/or preparatory reading.
    3. Self-paced statistical computing practical classes with demonstrator support.

    Contact hours:

      Autumn Spring Summer
    Lectures 7.5    
    Tutorials/seminars      
    Practicals 7.5    
    Other contact (eg study visits)      
    Private study 85    
    Total hours 100    
           
    Number of essays or assignments 1 coursework (10 credits)    
    Other (eg major seminar paper)      

    Assessment:
    Coursework
    Data analysis assignment using SPSS, and written report of analysis. Due date of assignment: Friday, Spring term, week 2.
    Relative percentage of coursework : 100%.
    Penalties for late submission
    With respect to written assessments handed in to a deadline, the following is reproduced from University Guide to Assessment for Taught Postgraduate Students http://www.reading.ac.uk/Exams/guidepg.htm:
    'The following penalties will be applied to coursework which is submitted after the deadline for submission:
    (a) Minor pieces of work (defined as pieces of work counting for no more than 10% of the total credits for a module): Minor pieces of work which are submitted late will be treated as non-submitted work. A mark of zero will be recorded and included in the calculation of the mark for the module.
    (b) Major pieces of work (defined as pieces of work counting for more than 10% of the total credits for a module): In the case of major pieces of work, 10% of the total marks available for the piece of work will be deducted from the mark where the piece of work is submitted up to one calendar week after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline). Once this period has elapsed, a mark of zero will be recorded.
    You are strongly advised to ensure that coursework is submitted by the relevant deadline. You should note that it is advisable to submit work in an unfinished state (whether by the deadline or before the expiry of the week's period of grace) rather than to fail to submit any work'.
    Requirements for a pass
    50%.
    Reassessment arrangements
    Your attention is drawn to the University of Reading's policies, at http://www.reading.ac.uk/Exams/guidepg.htm.

    Page last updated 24/Oct/2005
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