Psychology Research Methods and Critical Thinking

Sep 11, 2024

Lecture Notes on Psychology and Research Methods

Introduction

  • Overview of processes in Psychology related to assignments.
  • Importance of critical thinking and recognizing cognitive biases.

Critical Thinking and Cognitive Biases

  • Cognitive biases hinder our ability to be objective.
  • Science aims to reduce these biases but cannot eliminate them entirely.
  • Pseudo-science: Claims that appear scientific but lack scientific rigor.
    • Examples include supplements, homeopathy, and the anti-vaccine movement.

The Anti-Vaccine Movement

  • Mention of Andrew Wakefield and the impact of his discredited research.
  • Use of graphic art to illustrate the consequences.

The Scientific Method in Psychology

  • Purpose: To gather information objectively and reduce bias.
  • Methods include psychological experiments and research.
  • Importance of sharing research findings through publications and conferences.

Communication and Reliability in Science

  • Ensuring reliability: citing sources like journal articles, textbooks, and reputable videos.
  • APA style citation examples: inline citations and reference lists.
  • Importance of skepticism and verifying sources.

Assignments Overview

Assignment 1

  • Requirement: Find and read a journal article.
  • Deadline: September 29th at midnight.
  • Objective: Familiarity with databases, important for future assignments.

Assignment 3 Preparation

  • Skill development in using databases to find articles.

Database & Article Search Tutorial

  • Steps to find articles using library databases:
    1. Access library databases and log in.
    2. Use search criteria like author names or subjects.
    3. Example search with authors: Van Dyke and Lane.
    4. Finding full text for free and saving articles as PDFs.
  • Tips for troubleshooting access issues (e.g., paywalls).

Conclusion

  • Encouragement to save and organize research articles for future use.
  • Invitation to ask questions for further clarification.