Program Overview

The program in question is PSYC665 - Research 2, a double-weighted unit that focuses on the application of knowledge in psychological research. The aim of this unit is for students to produce a publishable research report and promote their transition to life-long learning as self-reliant and critically reflective professionals.

Unit Rationale, Description, and Aim

The practice of psychology is based on the scientist-practitioner model, where knowledge and critical analysis of research are essential for evidence-based practice. Students will complete research in an area of relevance to their specialization stream (Clinical or Educational and Developmental) and write a research report in journal paper format.

Campus Offerings

The unit is offered at the Melbourne and Strathfield campuses, with options for campus attendance in Semester 1 and Semester 2.

Prerequisites

The prerequisite for this unit is PSYC664 Research 1.

Learning Outcomes

To successfully complete this unit, students will be able to:

1. Describe knowledge and skills in conducting an original, well-designed, and ethical research project.
2. Use specialized knowledge and technical skills to implement a substantial research-based project or piece of scholarship.
3. Complete a substantive original research study that is communicated effectively in written and oral forms to a specialist audience.

Content

The specific content will focus on the topic selected for investigation in PSYC664 Research 1. Students will continue writing a research report in the format of a journal article and make a public presentation of their thesis research to staff and peers.

Assessment Strategy and Rationale

A range of assessment procedures will be used to meet the unit objectives, consistent with University assessment requirements. The main assessment task is to produce a final research report for examination. Students will also present their work for peer review at the annual ACU Psychology conference or similar school-based forum.

Assessments

• 5000-word Research Report: Requires students to demonstrate their ability to write a research report in publishable form (100%).
• Presentation of research at School Conference: Requires students to demonstrate communication skills (Hurdle).
• Supervisor Sign-off: Requires students to demonstrate collaboration and ethical behavior in research (Hurdle).

Learning and Teaching Strategy and Rationale

The teaching strategy for this unit is primarily meetings with the relevant staff and/or research team involving reflective/critical-thinking activities. Students will be expected to take responsibility for their learning and participate actively within supervision sessions.

Representative Texts and References

• American Psychological Association. (2020). Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association: the official guide to APA style (7th ed.).
• National Health and Medical Research Council. (2018). Australian Code for the Responsible Conduct of Research.
• Sternberg, R. J., & Sternberg, K. (2016). The Psychologist's Companion: A guide to professional success for students, teachers, and researchers. Cambridge University Press.

Locations

The unit is available at the Melbourne and Strathfield campuses.

Credit Points

This unit is worth 20 credit points.

Year

The information provided is relevant for the year 2026.

Australian Catholic University (ACU)

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Overview:

Australian Catholic University (ACU) is a leading Catholic university in Australia, offering a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines. It is known for its strong commitment to faith and values, fostering a supportive and inclusive learning environment.

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Services Offered:

ACU provides a comprehensive range of student services, including:

Academic Skills Development:

The Academic Skills Unit offers support in developing essential study skills, academic writing, referencing, maths and numeracy, and exam preparation.

Campus Ministry:

Provides spiritual guidance and support to students.

Career Development Services:

Offers career advice, job search assistance, and internship opportunities.

Connect2Uni:

Provides support and resources for first-year students.

Counselling Services:

Offers confidential counselling and support for students' mental health and wellbeing.

Disability Support:

Provides tailored support for students with disabilities.

Medical Centres:

Offers healthcare services on campus.

Student Advocacy:

Provides support and guidance to students facing academic or personal challenges.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student Services:

Offers dedicated support and resources for Indigenous students.

Student Veterans Support Program:

Provides support and resources for students who have served in the military.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

ACU offers a vibrant and engaging campus experience, with opportunities for students to:

Join clubs and societies:

Participate in a wide range of clubs and societies catering to diverse interests.

Engage in creative and cultural activities:

Participate in various events and activities, including arts, music, and theatre.

Develop leadership skills:

Take advantage of leadership opportunities within clubs, societies, and student associations.

Participate in ACU Sport:

Access gyms, fitness classes, and sports facilities, and join sports clubs and activities.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Strong Catholic values and ethics:

ACU's commitment to faith and values creates a supportive and inclusive learning environment.

Comprehensive student services:

Provides a wide range of support services to help students succeed.

Vibrant campus life:

Offers a diverse range of clubs, activities, and events to enhance the student experience.

Focus on practical skills and real-world application:

Emphasizes the development of practical skills and knowledge relevant to future careers.

Strong reputation and rankings:

ACU is consistently ranked among the top universities in Australia.

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Academic Programs:

ACU offers a wide range of academic programs across its four faculties:

Faculty of Education and Arts:

Offers programs in education, arts, humanities, and social sciences.

Faculty of Health Sciences:

Offers programs in nursing, medicine, psychology, and allied health.

Faculty of Law and Business:

Offers programs in law, business, and economics.

Faculty of Theology and Philosophy:

Offers programs in theology, philosophy, and religious studies.

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Other:

ACU has campuses located in Ballarat, Blacktown, Brisbane, Canberra, Melbourne, North Sydney, Rome, and Strathfield. It also offers a range of online programs through ACU Online.