Course content

The course gives a deeper understanding of the commonly used first generation multivariate analyses in psychological research as well as in other fields of the social sciences. After an overview of various multivariate analyses, the course thoroughly treats multiple regression analysis (mediation and moderation/interactions), exploratory factor analysis (principal component and common factor) and analysis of variance (independent and repeated measures). Furthermore, the course provides some applications of cluster analysis and chi-square automatic interaction detection (CHAID) analysis used for segmentation purposes. The main software to be used are SPSS/STATA. The course provides first a conceptual understanding of each analysis which is subsequently followed by practical exercises in computer lab under guidance.

Learning outcome

Knowledge:
The candidate...
- has deep theoretical and practical knowledge of the first generation multivariate quantitative methods that are commonly used in psychological research.
- has knowledge of the assumptions for applying these methods in addition to the ability to appropriately assess the methods used to the corresponding research questions.

Skills:
The candidate...
- has the ability to transform theoretical research problems into hypotheses that can be tested through methods that are taught in the course.
- has the skill to set up an analytical strategy based on theory and knowledge of methodology.


General Qualifications:
The candidate...
- has expertise in quantitative research and has knowledge of how research results can be communicated in scientific publication format.
- has the expertise to be able to evaluate published psychological research from a methodological viewpoint.

Learning methods and activities

Participation in lectures and lab exercises. The course consists of 30 hours and is arranged over a period of five days. The course is offered when at least 5 PhD candidates are registered.

Compulsory assignments

• Participation in lectures and exercises

Recommended previous knowledge

Basic knowledge of quantitative social research and of statistics is recommended. Furthermore, experience with statistical software such as SPSS, STATA etc. may be useful.

Required previous knowledge

Completed Master's degree or similar. Candidates admitted to a PhD programme have priority.

Course materials

Recommended literature will be sent to the participants before the course starts.