At a Glance
The aims of this Module -which consists of 2 parts taught
during the 1st and the 2nd semester- is to acquaint the student with Research
Methods concepts in Psychology so that they can understand how to gather data
in a reliable way and then how to analyze and interpret these data. It provides
the Student with the knowledge and tools to distinguish what is dependable and
what is not when researching, how to show people that he has found a
relationship between the data that he has collected and then analyzed and how
these data can support, or not, a particular view or theory about how Life is,
how people act, or how the soul evolves etc.
and more specifically
This 1st part of the Module aims to support the Student as
he is being introduced in the Science of Research Methodology and how to
distinguish the meaningful information that can lie there in their data
collection and interpret it in a way that goes beyond statistics and
measurement and do so in an ethical way.
We' ll begin by asking ourselves what is it that makes a
theory a valuable one or not and what are the criteria for looking into a model
and find how useful it is in serving its role of helping people understand
human experience. We will also spend time thinking about the Science of Psychology
and the Psychology of Science.
Recommended Background
There are no prerequisites for this course. However, the
course will be conducted at the level expected of Undergraduate Students or
Professionals and Executives who can critically think and reflect. Therefore,
for all participants, reading and writing comfortably in English at the
Undergraduate College Level is desirable as well as a reflective Mind to delve
into concepts.
Suggested Readings
Although the lectures are designed to be self-contained,
students wanting to expand their knowledge even further will be guided to do so
through extensive bibliography. Students are advised to read the required
readings either before or soon after each unit, but in advance of the next
unit. Recommended and supplemental readings can be read any time throughout the
course in the self-study context and this is what will take your understanding
to new heights.
Course Format
There will be video lectures (60-75 minutes each) each
week. The lectures can be divided into about 4-6 segments, separated by
interactive quiz questions for you to to help you process and understand
the material. In addition, there will be a problem set and a programming
assignment each week and there will be a final exam. You are encouraged to
maintain a personal journal of thoughts, observations and experiences during
the course. For the community work, there will be action learning activities
which will involve you talking to others in your environment. A brief essay is
to be written based on your experience.
Syllabus
This 1st part of the Module explores the following main
areas:
Conceptual Matters
Issues Around Methods Of Psychology
Empiricism - Determinism
Observation
Explanation
Designing A Research In Psychology
The Ethics Of Science
Formal Theories In Psychology
FAQ
What is the miraculous thing about this course?
You will learn how to contribute to the developing of trust
in the shaking territory of human life especially that of the early
beginnings.
Will I be able to apply the learning?
Yes, each unit will include reflective exercises and action
learning assignments to help you understand and experiment with the ideas
studies at work or at home in your life. You will learn techniques for
inspiring vision, engaging mindfulness, spreading compassion and being playful
and enthusiastic building on your innate curiosity in an adult responsible way.
Do I have to do community work right from the beginning of
my studies?
Yes, community work is an integral part of this educational
program. You are expected to offer 4 hours of community work a week, which will
be documented.
Do I have to do any personal work right from the beginning?
Yes, since this educational program goes very deep, it is
important for you to have your support system and personal work is an integral
part of it. You can choose to work individually or in a group in your area and
it is advisable that you opt for prenatal psychology to be the Psychology Thought
you work with, if this is possible where you live. A session of 2 hours a
week is expected.
What resources will I need for this course?
All you need is an Internet connection and the time to read
and discuss the exciting materials available online.