Macquarie University

Research Theory and Practice for Professional Psychologists - PSYP910

The goal of this unit is to provide students with an understanding of aspects of the theory and practice of psychology research most relevant for practicing psychologists. Topics covered include: “evidence-based practice” and “research-practice integration”; research design and statistical analysis, including the application of these to quantitative, qualitative and mixed-methods research; critical evaluation of research output; conduct of literature searches and reviews; presentation and dissemination of research findings, such as peer-reviewed scientific journals and academic conferences; ethical considerations in research practice; and applying for research funding. The focus is on practical aspects of the design, conduct and reporting of psychology research. Through a mixture of workshops and independent and group activities and assignments, students are provided with the tools to design, conduct and report findings from applied research and to critically review relevant published research.