27278 - Laboratory (2) (G.B)

Learning outcomes

The courses included in the Laboratory 2 are conceived to offer students a direct contact with the professions of communication. The objectives may change according to professional changes in the field of communication.

Course contents

Laboratory: Critical analysis of experimental research in Psychology

Learning objectives

This laboratory aims at introducing students to key concepts of critical analysis  and offers the basic tools and techniques to critically evaluate research in Psychology.

Specifically, at the end of the course students will be able to:

• read and critically evaluate a research paper in psychology (written in italian)
• understand the rationale, logic and aims of a research study
• evaluate the appropriateness of the experimental design
• identify possible weaknesses 
• evaluate the overall value of the study and its contribution towards the specific research topic of experimental psychology

 

Course contents

A brief introduction to the main research methods in psychology will be offered during the first part of the course. Specifically, we will discuss about the main behavioural paradigms used to investigate cogntive processes. Furthermore, we will discuss key elements related to experimental design, the manipulation of variables and the formulation of research questions.

In the second part of the course, the students will have an opportunity to practice their critical thinking abilities evaluating research studies published in the 'Giornale Italiano di Psicologia'. This part of the course will be characterized by group discussions and presentations.

Readings/Bibliography

The relevant bibliografy will be shared with the students during the first lecture.

The lecturer will share further material in class.

Teaching methods

The lab is characterised by frontal lectures and group discussions and presentations carried out in class by the students.

Assessment methods

Students will need to demonstrate that they have achieved the main learning objectives through a final oral presentation (power point slide show, maximum 10 minutes) carried out in class in which they will briefly describe and critically evaluate one published study in experimental psychology.

 

Students with disabilities and Specific Learning Disorders (SLD)

Students with disabilities or Specific Learning Disorders have the right to special adjustments according to their condition, following an assessment by the Service for Students with Disabilities and SLD. Please do not contact the instructor but get in touch with the Service directly to schedule an appointment. It will be the responsibility of the Service to determine the appropriate adjustments. For more information, visit the page: https://site.unibo.it/studenti-con-disabilita-e-dsa/en/for-students .

It is recommended that students contact the University office in advance. Any proposed adjustments must be submitted at least 15 days in advance for the instructor’s approval, who will evaluate their appropriateness in relation to the learning objectives of the course.

Teaching tools

The scientific papers that students will evaluate and the teaching material used in class will be shared with the students. 

Office hours

See the website of Elena Gherri