PSY5110 · Clinical psychology research proposal

Overview

Based on the scientist-practitioner model, the practice of psychology is evidence-based, requiring competence in the critical analysis of research literature and knowledge of appropriate research methodologies. This unit aims to build knowledge and skills associated with research methodologies relevant to the study and practice of clinical psychology, with a focus on addressing mental health challenges in the community. Under the guidance of your academic supervisor you will formulate research questions, critically review the research literature related to your topic, design the methodology, and consider potential ethical issues. Key seminars will be delivered throughout the unit to provide additional support and guidance. At the culmination of this unit you will have: developed a research proposal for a service evaluation, experimental study, systematic review or meta-analysis relevant to clinical psychology and completed a literature review, which will form the basis of your Master's research project.

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook does not list a final examination among the assessment items. That is not a guarantee there is none.

Assessment in this unit includes hurdle assessment tasks. Failure of any hurdle assessment task may result in failure of the unit.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

The Handbook lists no prerequisite, corequisite or prohibition for this unit.

Learning outcomes

1. Review research methodologies for the study of clinical psychology including those used for the evaluation of psychological practice.
2. Develop and propose a research topic, and research question/s relevant to clinical psychology practice that is feasible to investigate within the thesis unit time-frame.
3. Find and select relevant theory and literature from a range of sources.
4. Adopt a critical approach to appraising the scientific evidence base for treatment of mental health disorders.
5. Design an appropriate study methodology to conduct the proposed research project.
6. Review ethical issues involved in clinically focused research. .

Workload

4 x 90 minute seminars across the semester for a total of 6 hours. Research activities: Up to 3 hours per week including laboratory/research activities and research supervision meetings with the academic supervisor, for a maximum of 36 hours. Preparation / Self-directed study: Up to 2 hours per week including engaging with the literature and preparation for assessment tasks, for a maximum of 24 hours.

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.