In this workshop, the two key approaches within quantitative research methods will be discussed in detail: experimental and correlational approaches. Each approach is suited to exploring different research questions, and the session will start with a detailed consideration of how to develop a research question and select the most suitable quantitative research method. We will also examine how to measure and operationalise variables, and how to evaluate the reliability and validity of your selected methods.  Practical exercises will be used throughout, all based on designing and thinking critically about quantitative research methods.

For each of the quantitative approaches we will discuss:

·         which variables can be measured and examined, and which cannot

·         how to design a basic quantitative research study

·         how to think about confounding variables within research design

·         how to avoid the common pitfalls for each method of analysis

·         methods of statistical analysis appropriate for each approach

Workshop Facilitator 

Dr Victoria Bourne is a Senior Lecturer (Teaching Focused) in the Department of Psychology at Royal Holloway, University of London. Her teaching is primarily in the area of Research Methods and Statistics, having designed, coordinated and taught on courses in this area from first year undergraduate through to postdoctoral levels. Her research focuses on the role of mathematical ability and statistics anxiety in attitudes towards, and performance in, research methods and statistical analysis courses. She is a committee member of the Division for Academics, Researchers and Teachers of the British Psychological Society, and she is a Senior Fellow of the HEA.