General Information

• Name: Introduction to Research Methods
• Discipline: Psychology (PSY)
• Units (Credits): 3
• Schedule History: See when this course was offered over the last three years.
• Transfer Information: Courses with numbers 100 to 299: This course is designed to apply toward a WNC degree and/or transfer to other schools within the Nevada System of Higher Education, depending on the degree chosen and other courses completed. It may transfer to colleges and universities outside Nevada. For information about how this course can transfer and apply to your program of study, please contact a counselor.
• Academic Division: Social Science, Education, Humanities & Public Service

Prerequisites and Recommended Courses

• Prerequisites: PSY 101 or consent of instructor

Course Outline

I: Catalog Course Description

Introduces how hypotheses are objectively tested in the social sciences, including research design, data collection, and interpretation of results.

II: Course Objectives

The course objectives have been aligned with the recommended outcomes from the American Psychological Association and the WNC requirements for sophomore level general education courses. The outcomes students are expected to attain are:

• Knowledge of the major components of the scientific method.
• Understanding of qualitative and quantitative methods, including that of case study, survey, observational, correlational, and experimental research.
• Familiarity with the practical and ethical considerations in research methods.
• Ability to apply course materials to real data.

III: Course Linkage

Linkage of course to educational program mission and at least one educational program outcome.

Introduction to Research Methods can be used for all degrees and certificates of achievement offered at WNC. It is most strongly linked to missions for general education and the two primary transfer degrees, AA and AS. This course also helps students to transfer successfully to baccalaureate degree programs by meeting the AA and AS student learning outcomes.

General Education Program Outcomes Linkage

Students in Introduction to Research Methods are expected to demonstrate they are making progress toward meeting five of the general education student learning outcomes:

• College-level skills in reading and writing.
• Understanding of the methods of science.
• Understand and apply social science principles.
• Problem-solving, creative, and critical thinking skills.
• Understand the importance of cultural traditions, diversity, and ethics in child development.