Conceptions of research methods learning among psychology undergraduates: a Q methodology study

Balloo, Kieran, Pauli, Regina and Worrell, Marcia (2018) Conceptions of research methods learning among psychology undergraduates: a Q methodology study Cognition and Instruction, 36 (4). pp 279-296.

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Abstract

A range of conceptions held about research methods learning have previously been identified. The current study aimed to examine in-depth shared conceptions among undergraduate psychology students. Utilising Q methodology, which links both quantitative and qualitative methodologies to uncover the subjective viewpoints that a group of individuals hold towards a particular domain, participants ranked statements reflecting different conceptions of research methods learning. Ranks were then factor analysed and four distinct profiles of student conceptions were identified, labelled and described in qualitative detail: Research methods as integral to psychology, Research methods as a digression from psychology, Research methods as disconnected from psychology and Research methods as beneficial to psychology. Some of the perspectives displayed a clear understanding about the reasons for undertaking research and learning about research methods in psychology, whereas other standpoints saw research as being something that was difficult to relate to the practice of psychology. Findings are considered in terms of how some conceptions appear to be more beneficial or problematic to hold than others and recommendations are made to educators about how they could support students to change their views.

Item Type:	Article
Divisions :	Department of Higher Education
Authors :	Name Email ORCID Balloo, Kieran k.balloo@surrey.ac.uk Pauli, Regina Worrell, Marcia
Date :	1 December 2018
DOI :	10.1080/07370008.2018.1494180
Copyright Disclaimer :	This is an Accepted Manuscript of an article published by Taylor & Francis in 'Cognition and Instruction' on 01 December 2018 available online: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi.org/10.1080/07370008.2018.1494180
Uncontrolled Keywords :	Conceptions of Research; Research Methods Learning; Adult Learners; Epistemological Beliefs; Q Methodology
Depositing User :	Clive Harris
Date Deposited :	07 Jun 2018 15:18
Last Modified :	01 Jun 2020 02:08
URI:	http://epubs.surrey.ac.uk/id/eprint/847019

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