Basics of psychological research (OPEN UNI)

Prerequisites and co-requisites
None

Recommended optional programme components
The study module is part of the basic studies in psychology and Bachelor of Art (in education) studies (with educational psychology as the major); including Open University students.

The student knows how to:

• describe psychology as a field of science, the scientific traditions of psychology, the theory of psychology as a science, and its position in the field of sciences.
• explain and use the basic concepts related to psychological research.
• explain (i.e. understand) the basis of psychological scientific thinking and the principles of science.
• how to evaluate psychological scientific research and the methods and procedures used in it on a basic level.
• describe the significance of methodological knowledge in the work of a psychology professional. work of specialist in psychology.

The course supports the development of the following generic skills:

• The student recognizes and evaluates the key skills of analytical, critical, and creative thinking, understands their relevance in scientific, professional, and ethical contexts, and applies disciplinary knowledge to solve complex and unpredictable problems.
• The student is able to reflect on their own well-being and self-leadership, identify work-related stressors in expert roles, and make use of self‑compassion. They can describe and further develop their expertise and professional identity, support group learning, and identify the need for lifelong learning.
• The student acts responsibly, equitably, and in accordance with professional ethics in various interaction situations, respecting different stakeholders, environments, values, and good scientific practice.
• The student identifies similarities and differences between their own discipline and related fields, approaches other disciplines with openness, and is able to work constructively in multi- and interdisciplinary teams.

Where applicable or other literature:

* Stanovich, K. E. (2014). How to Think Straight about Psychology (9th ed). Pearson.

* Cozby P. C. & Bates S. C. (2020). Methods in Behavioral Research (14th ed.). McGraw-Hill.

* Breakwell G. M., Smith, J. A., & Wright, D. B. (Eds.). (2012). Research Methods in Psychology (4th ed.). London: Sage.

* Other materials

Language of instruction
Finnish

Target group
Open University students; students pursuing basic studies in psychology

Person responsible
Heli Kiema-Junes