Triennale

CFU 2

UNITÀ 30

Introduction to Empirical Human and Social Research – Proseminar

Objectives

Upon completion of the course, students will acquire:

  • Knowledge of scientific methodology and scientific communication;
  • Skills in researching, identifying, and selecting a scientific article from specific database(s);
  • Skills in reading and describing both the theoretical and methodological content of a scientific article;
  • Competence in formulating a scientific hypothesis and developing a research project;
  • Development of critical analysis and oral presentation skills.

Programme

The course consists of both a theoretical part, and practical and experiential part.

The theoretical content will cover:

  • The basics reasoning;
  • The scientific method;
  • The main differences between qualitative and quantitative methodology in the field of applied experimental psychology;
  • Bibliographic research and best practices to avoid plagiarism;
  • APA guidelines for preparing a paper according to the style and formats of international scientific communication.

The practical-experiential part will be conducted in work groups and will mainly focus on organizing and structuring a research project, starting from the formulation of a hypothesis, choosing the method and tools.

The research project will be carried out throughout the course and will focus on a topic chosen by the students, using the criteria and guidelines provided by the instructor.

Exam

The assessment will consist of two parts: an oral component, where students will be asked to present the work completed during the course both in groups and individually, and a written component, which involves submitting a short paper to the instructor.

The oral part will account for 60% of the final grade and will be evaluated based on the following criteria: active participation during lessons, engagement in discussions during classes and within work groups, and cooperation in the final execution of the project.

The written part will account for 40% of the final grade.

The formal criteria for both the oral presentation and the written paper will be provided during the lessons.

Bibliography

Scientific articles will be suggested during the course.