Provide a framework of qualitative and quantitative research techniques showing the strengths and limits of these different approach 2) Provide adequate knowledge in order to to develop research analysis and interpretation skills 3) Develop a basic level of technical expertise in data analysis in both quantitative and qualitative socio-psychological research.
teacher profile teaching materials
As to the qualitative approach, methods with low researcher’s intrusiveness will be presented such as observation, qualitative interview, and focus-groups; During the course, different possibilities for coding of qualitative data (ie paper and pencil or semi-automatic) will be presented. As to quantitative approaches, the different phases of constructing structured questionnaires (ie attitude scales) will be illustrated also checking the distorting effects; a special part will be dedicated to the experiment: in this regard, various experimental designs will be presented through concrete case studies, providing preliminary knowledge of data analysis using software such as spss. Finally, the main psychometric properties of psychological tests will be described but also the interpretation of the scores through standardized test examples.
Leone, G. (2003). Fare ricerca in psicologia sociale: problemi teorici e scelte di metodo. GLF editori Laterza.
More texts to replace can be proposed later or agreed upon with the Teacher.
Programme
During the course, some preliminary methodological notions (validity, reliability) will be provided, and then qualitative, quantitative and qualitative approaches to psycho-social research will be presented and distinguished.As to the qualitative approach, methods with low researcher’s intrusiveness will be presented such as observation, qualitative interview, and focus-groups; During the course, different possibilities for coding of qualitative data (ie paper and pencil or semi-automatic) will be presented. As to quantitative approaches, the different phases of constructing structured questionnaires (ie attitude scales) will be illustrated also checking the distorting effects; a special part will be dedicated to the experiment: in this regard, various experimental designs will be presented through concrete case studies, providing preliminary knowledge of data analysis using software such as spss. Finally, the main psychometric properties of psychological tests will be described but also the interpretation of the scores through standardized test examples.
Core Documentation
Pedon, A., & Gnisci, A. (2004). Metodologia della ricerca psicologica, il Mulino.Leone, G. (2003). Fare ricerca in psicologia sociale: problemi teorici e scelte di metodo. GLF editori Laterza.
More texts to replace can be proposed later or agreed upon with the Teacher.
Type of evaluation
Oral exam