PL4S133 - Research Methods in Behaviour Analysis 22 Feb 2019 - 31 Aug 2027 | Version 1

Associated Module Information

Module Code: PL4S133
Module Title: Research Methods in Behaviour Analysis
Faculty: Faculty of Life Sciences and Education
Faculty Group: Psychology
Faculty Sub Group: Youth and Community
Module Leader: Aimee Giles
Module Team: Emily Groves, Kirsty Richards, Dan Bowers, Alexis Jones, Leigh Attwood
First Intended Intake: SEP 2019 Final Year of Intake: 2024
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 1
Valid From 22 Feb 2019
Valid To 31 Aug 2027

Module Aims

To develop students’ critical understanding of methods of data collection and analysis used in behaviour analysis.

Content Summary

This module will present a range of methods for direct observation and permanent product recording of behaviour. Students will learn to evaluate the effects of independent variables on dependent variables using various single subject and group 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 39
Practical classes and workshops 6
Independent Study 111
Directed Study 40
Formative Assessment - Scheduled 4
Total Hours Selected 200

Learning Outcomes

# Learning Outcome
LO1 Critically assess the range of considerations in interpreting and evaluating behaviour analytic research
LO2 Apply appropriate data collection strategies and research designs for conducting behaviour analytic research in applied settings

Module Requisites

N/A

Assessment Criteria

Assessment Category Assessment Type Description Duration Word Count Weight (%) Best of? Pass Mark
Asynchronous Assessment Portfolio 1 Collection of practical assessments, including writing a brief research protocal and and completing reading comprehension exercises 0 3000 50 No 50
Synchronous Onsite Assessment Classroom Test - Time Constrained (Onsite) 1 MCQ Class Test: Comprehensive test across all module content 90 N/A 50 No 50

Assessment Matrix

Assessment Type Learning Outcomes
LO1 LO2
Portfolio 1
Classroom Test - Time Constrained (Onsite) 1

Reading List

Bailey, J. S., & Burch, M. R. (2017). Research methods in applied behaviour analysis. London: Sage.

Kazdin, A. E. (2010). Single case research designs: Methods for applied and clinical settings (2nd ed.). New York: Oxford University Press.

Ledford, J. R., & Gast, D. L. (2018). Single case research methodology: Applications in special education and behavioural sciences. Routledge.

Journal of Applied Behaviour Analysis