Psychological Sciences and Techniques

The contents of the course concern the study of research in the scientific field, the representation of data through computer programs and software useful for research in the social sciences. The theoretical lessons will concern, specifically, the aspects related to the concept of empirical research with reference to notions related to quantitative research. Linked to these two macro topics, it will be intended to learn how, through IT tools, it is possible to manage a dataset, starting from the theoretical meaning of research. The lessons, which will follow what has been learned from the theoretical ones, will allow students to carry out correct bibliographic research through the databases exposed and shown in the classroom, to complete an exercise in which will summarize what emerged from the selected articles on the basis of the in-depth theme. The student will be able to build an Excel datafile, extrapolating variables and data from questionnaires distributed in the classroom. At the same time, you will make the student autonomous in the construction of excel charts that can describe the data, once entered the Excel file. The last part will be intended for the knowledge the Jamovi statistical analysis software.

The prerequisites useful for the course concern a minimum confidence with the computer, at least with regard to Internet access and installation of programs. It is useful for better learning, a level of motivation for study, learning, curiosity, questioning and willingness to work independently.

Course materials provided through the online platform. Books: Pettarin, G.(2014). Computer Essential, modulo 1 della Nuova ECDL https://www.matematicamente.it/staticfiles/manuali-cc/ecdl-modulo1-computer-essentials.pdf Davì, M., & Barale, E. (2014). Online Essential, modulo 2 della Nuova ECDL https://www.matematicamente.it/staticfiles/manuali-cc/ecdl-modulo2-online-essential.pdf

The course will take place through lectures, essential for theoretical learning and the explanation of the daily topic; moments of interactive lesson, devoting ample space to questions, reflections, doubts and considerations. The aim will be to be able to apply the use of scientific instruments in the social sciences, trying to imagine cases related to the social sciences and the profession. This will be done through the laboratory part, where students will put into practice on their computer exercises, tests and tasks in relation to the topic of the lesson: bibliographic research through databases, data entry and management through the Excel program, basic statistical analysis thanks to the installation of the Spss software. The exercises will take place in such a way as to stimulate cohesion, peer learning and comparison. The course also makes use of an online platform through which it will be possible to access the lessons on a case-by-case display in the classroom and the material through which to carry out the exercises at home independently. Attendance of the course is mandatory and will involve the collection of signatures. Those who do not have the opportunity to attend the course will agree with the teacher a theoretical-practical activity to be integrated with the slides and the reference text.

Attendance is mandatory.

The exam will consist of a written test containing multiple choice questions (1 point for each correct answer) with four answer options, and semi-open questions (1 point for each correct answer) to which the examiner will have to answer by identifying the correct answer and open, more general questions. The test has a duration of about 40 minutes.

Course materials provided through the online platform (eLearning2); Barbaranelli - D'Olimpio - Led - Analisi dei dati con SPSS Volume 1.

The course will take place through lectures, essential for theoretical learning and the explanation of the daily topic. The aim will be to be able to apply the use of informatic instruments in the social sciences, trying to imagine cases related to the social sciences and the profession.