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OPM400

Research methods - Organizational Psychology

Module information>

Academic Direction
Birkbeck, University of London
Modes of Study
Online

Overall this module introduces social sciences methods as applied broadly to the study of topics that arise as part of organisational life.

Please note the availability of this module is for Term 1: September/October to December.

Topics covered

  • The first issue addresses some basic topics on doing research in organisational settings such as understanding an empirical research model; formulating testing hypotheses; understanding research paradigms, and knowledge on writing a research proposal.
  • The second issue concerns the quantitative methods.
  • The third issue focus on the qualitative research methods.
  • The last issue touches on two other types of research techniques: using experimental design and conduction cross-cultural studies.

Learning outcomes

By completing this module, you will be able to:

  • formulate sound research questions.
  • develop testable research hypotheses.
  • be familiar with research process.
  • critically evaluate an empirical study.
  • understand pros and cons in using quantitative and qualitative methods.
  • be aware of ethical issues involved in their research projects.
  • undertake their final research projects.

Assessment 

​ A multiple choice two-hour unseen written examination​.

Essential reading

  • Schwab, D. (2005). Research methods for organizational studies. Mahwah, NJ: Lawrence Erlbaum Associates.
  • Denzin, N. K. & Lincoln, Y. S. (2011). The Sage Handbook of Qualitative Research. Sage: London.
  • Dewberry, C. (2004). Statistical Methods for Organizational Research: Theory and Practice. London: Routledge.
  • Journal articles are listed under each specific topic and also available on-line on Moodle.

Taster study material