Experimentation is one of the major methods in psychology (it is a way of gathering new knowledge). This course introduces the essential features of this method, with reference to general concepts related to scientific knowledge, psychological research questions, and statistical analysis/inference. These general concepts will be illustrated with the help of examples from six different topics of research: These include the experimental studies of (1) goals (2) honesty/dishonesty, (3) rule-following and rule-violation (4) sense of control (5) free choice and forced choice, and (6) daydreaming. We will discuss instances in which the experimental method is a good choice and instances where it might not be appropriate.

CILO-1: Construct general knowledge about the place of experimental psychology in the 'big picture' of psychological research and practices. Identify examples of experimental research and list typical examples from experimental psychology literature. CILO-2: Recognize important concepts in psychological experiments, including hypothesis testing, dependent and independent variables, within- and between-subject designs, counter balancing, ethical issues, etc. CILO-3: Demonstrate the basic ability to conduct their own experiments. They should be able to appropriately collect, analyse and interpret data, and present results in reports.