PL4S128 - Research Methods in Behaviour Analysis 01 Sep 2018 - 31 Aug 2019 | Version 3

Associated Module Information

Module Code: PL4S128
Module Title: Research Methods in Behaviour Analysis
Faculty: Faculty of Business and Society (Old Structure)
Faculty Group: School of Psychology
Faculty Sub Group: Psychology
Module Leader: Jenn Austin
Module Team: Aimee Giles, Richard May
First Intended Intake: SEP 2012 Final Year of Intake: 2012
Date Closed:
Credit Value: 20 Credit Level: 7
Language: English
Percentage of Module Taught in Welsh: 0
Equivalent Module:
HECOS codes: 100497 - psychology
HECOS Code Weighting: 100

Document Version Information

Version 3
Valid From 01 Sep 2018
Valid To 31 Aug 2019

Module Aims

Students will learn various direct and indirect methods for collecting reliable behavioural data, as well as methods for evaluating the effects of independent variables through the use of single case designs.

Content Summary

This module will present a range of methods for direction observation and permanent product recording of behaviour. Students also will learn to evaluate the effects of independent variables on dependent variables using various single subject experimental designs, including methods for conducting component and parametric analyses. The module will cover methods for evaluating the reliability of dependent variables and the procedural integrity of independent variables. Students also will learn how to display and interpret data using equal interval graphs, semi-logarithmic charts, and cumulative records. Students also will learn the importance of social validation of treatment goals, procedures, and outcomes.

Learning and Teaching Methods

Activity Type Hours
Lecture 24
Seminar 24
Project supervision 4
Independent Study 98
Directed Study 50
Total Hours Selected 200

Learning Outcomes

# Learning Outcome
LO1 Use various methods to collect, display, and interpret behavioural data
LO2 Select and implement appropriate single subject designs for evaluating independent variables (including component and parametric analysis)
LO3 Assess the reliability of dependent variables, the integrity of independent variables, and the social validity of both

Module Requisites

N/A

Assessment Criteria

Assessment Category Assessment Type Description Duration Word Count Weight (%) Best of? Pass Mark
Portfolio Portfolio 1 0 3500 60 No 50
Written Assignment (CW) Multiple Choice Questions - Exercise (CW) 120 N/A 40 No 50

Assessment Matrix

Assessment Type Learning Outcomes
LO1 LO2 LO3
Portfolio 1
Multiple Choice Questions - Exercise (CW)

Reading List

Bailey, J. S., & Burch, M. R. (2002). Research methods in applied behavior analysis. London: Sage.Kazdin, A. E. (2010). Single case research designs: Methods for applied and clinical settings (2nd ed.). New York: Oxford University Press.Journal of Applied Behaviour AnalysisJournal of Experimental Analysis of BehaviourIwata, B. A., Neef, N. A., Wacker, D. P., Mace, F. C., & Vollmer, T. R. (Eds.) (2000). Methodological and conceptual issues in applied behavior analysis. (2nd ed). Lawrence, KS: Society for the Experimental Analysis of Behavior.