Research Paper Analysis
PSYC3320 (A11) Summer 2021
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Research Paper Analysis
As a consumer of scientific knowledge, it is important that you learn how to thoroughly read, understand, and critically evaluate original studies, even if you are not an expert in the particular field. In this assignment, you will review and analyze an original psychopharmacology study. The learning outcomes related to this assignment include: gaining knowledge related to psychopharmacology, critically evaluating research in the area, developing written communication, and (if you choose to work with others) applying teamwork and collaboration skills. The assignment can be completed independently or in small groups of 2-5. There are two steps to the Research Paper Analysis assignment:
(1) Select an article and email your selection to the instructor. If you choose to work with one or more of your classmates, be sure to include their full name(s) in the body of the email and copy them on the email. DUE: 11 June 2021 by 11:59 pm PST
(2) Complete and submit your assignment as a single Word document on Moodle DUE: 16 July 2021 by 11:59 pm PST
Please respond to the questions below in relation to your chosen article. There are no word or space limits, but it is always prudent to write clearly and succinctly.
1. Suggest a new declarative title for this article and explain why you think it is better. Your new title and rationale should be based on science and/or specific findings from the study [2 pts.]
2. Explain the methodology (i.e., how the experiment was performed) using lay terms. The important thing here is to not simply paraphrase the methods; instead, ensure that you have a thorough understanding of what the experimenters did and then, using your own words, distill the main points into a description that an average person could understand [2 pts]
3. Choose one figure from the article and explain it as if you were communicating to an undergraduate student who does not have much psychopharmacology knowledge. Be sure to go over each axis including units of measurement, describe what the data in the graph are showing, and state a “take home message” [4 pts]
4. Choose one of the main findings (e.g., relating to one particular figure) and offer an alternative explanation for the results, which has not been raised by the study authors [2 pts]
5. Relate the findings from this article to something you have learned about in the course (textbook, lectures and/or seminars) [2 pts]
PSYC3320 (A11) Summer 2021
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6. Well-designed studies with impactful results typically enhance our understanding
of everyday phenomena or offer practical applications. Describe a real-world implication of the study’s findings (that was not mentioned by the authors themselves!) [2 pts]
APA Formatting: 1 point will be deducted if the assignment is lacking proper APA 7 formatting elements, including title page, appropriate citation, and/or reference page. Group submissions: If students choose to work with others, they must set up the groups themselves. Those who submit an assignment together will all receive the same mark.