PSYC71-505: Research Methods, Professional Practice and Ethics

This subject provides training in ethics, legal frameworks, and research methods as relevant to the professional practice of psychology. Students will learn two sections in this subject. In section 1, students receive formal academic training in the philosophical foundations of ethics, the legal frameworks and professional codes relevant to psychological practice. In addition, students will learn to apply the APS Code, APS Guidelines and ethical decision making models to analyse and manage ethical dilemmas that can arise in psychological practice. Students will also learn how to build capability around inclusion and cultural diversity, to develop self-reflective and culturally, responsive professional practice. To develop procedural skills in regards to risk management and ethical conduct, students will learn current first-hand accounts of psychological practice. In section 2, students receive advanced training in research ethics and research methods with a focus on applied research settings. This will include learning activities on developing an understanding of the unique ethical issues that arise when conducting research in professional psychological contexts. Furthermore, students learn to apply and critically appraise evidence-based scientific methods in contexts ranging for single case studies, to clinical trials, and the evaluation of public mental health programs. This section includes an emphasis on developing capabilities to critically appraise the strengths and limitations of the various qualitative and quantitative research methods that are employed by psychologists. Finally, students will learn to individually investigate a psychological research question in the form of a systematic literature review.