Class Dissertation Project in Clinical and Health Psychology

Given the scientific status of Psychology, it is essential that students master a set of practical skills related to the management of scientific information in this field of study. The main objective of this curricular unit is to develop a set of skills inherent to the preparation of a research project, essential for the development of a dissertation. This includes skills related to decision-making related to the preparation of a research, planning of all stages of research, and scientific writing. This curricular unit aims to promote these skills through practical exercises (with tutoring), based on theoretical content.

Not applicable

Research planning: Scientific information search. Research questions and hypotheses. Study purpose (exploratory, descriptive, or explanatory). Study approach (qualitative, quantitative, or mixed-methods). Quantitative studies: concepts, constructs, and variables. Research design (experimental, quasi-experimental, cross-sectional, longitudinal, qualitative). Population, sample, and sampling techniques (probability and nonprobability sampling). Data collection: development and evaluation of self-report measures; observation; interview. Data collection planning and dissemination tasks Study validity: threats and research procedures to minimize them. Elaboration of a research project: Characteristics of scientific writing. Formatting norms of the American Psychological Association. Structure of a research project.

The course unit consists of laboratory classes with tutorial support. Students are expected to complete the exercises individually or in pairs, receiving personalized guidance from the instructor. Continuous assessment includes a written project (60%), a pitch presentation (25%), and effort and autonomy (15%), evaluating participation, task completion, and progress. Final assessment: an individual written exam (weight: 100%). Attendance in practical classes is mandatory. The use of AI tools is not permitted, as the aim of this course unit is to develop critical and methodological thinking skills, fostering the understanding and application of the fundamental principles of the research process.

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