Quantitative and Qualitative Methods (C8300)

15 credits, Level 5

Spring teaching

This module complements the term 1 module 'Discovering Statistics'. It has three components: (a) advanced statistical analysis for various linear models and questionnaire construction and interpretation; (b) observational methods; (c) qualitative data-gathering and analysis. There is one assessed empirical report using some of these techniques, which will enable students to develop skills in research design, data-gathering and analysis and which will therefore equip students for their empirical research projects.

There is also an assessed problem set that gives students the opportunity to develop their critical thinking around validity and operationalisation. The statistical analysis parts of the module build upon existing knowledge of statistical theory (in term 1 module). Practical workshops complement the lectures by providing hands-on experience and guidance in using the methods and through small group work on relevant tasks, and encourage consistent development of statistical skills and critical thinking through weekly quizzes.

This module builds on knowledge gained in the core psychology modules C8511: Psychology as a science; C8891: Analysing data; and C8552 Discovering Statistics. Students who are not enrolled on the BSc Psychology course at Sussex are expected to be familiar with the material covered in these modules.

Contact hours and workload

This module is approximately 150 hours of work. This breaks down into about 42 hours of contact time and about 108 hours of independent study. The University may make minor variations to the contact hours for operational reasons, including timetabling requirements.

We regularly review our modules to incorporate student feedback, staff expertise, as well as the latest research and teaching methodology. We’re planning to run these modules in the academic year 2022/23. However, there may be changes to these modules in response to feedback, staff availability, student demand or updates to our curriculum. We’ll make sure to let you know of any material changes to modules at the earliest opportunity.