Duration
15h Th, 15h Pr
Number of credits
| Master in psychology (120 ECTS) | 3 crédits |
Lecturer
Language(s) of instruction
French language
Organisation and examination
Teaching in the first semester, review in January
Schedule
Units courses prerequisite and corequisite
Prerequisite or corequisite units are presented within each program
Learning unit contents
In psychology and ethology, we are regularly brought to observe behavior. The rigorous and systematic observation of behavior is a scientific investigation tool which makes it possible to quantify the relevant behavioral units retained.
As in a second step these behavioral data are generally analyzed statistically to test various hypotheses, it is important to ensure the quality of the data collected.
The objective of the course is therefore to learn behavior observation techniques and, for each of them, to examine their advantages and limitations.
Classical notions of validity and fidelity of behavior observation will be studied.
Learning outcomes of the learning unit
Know and understand the advantages and limitations of behavioral observation techniques.
Knowing how to correctly establish a behavior observation grid.
Know how to use a behavioral observation software.
Know the criteria for a good planning of an observation.
Know the criteria for correct writing in a research report of the methodological aspects related to the observation of behavior.
Know how to calculate and interpret an inter-observer fidelity index.
Prerequisite knowledge and skills
Planned learning activities and teaching methods
Face-to-face and/or eCampus Collaborate courses.
Compulsory reading (observation techniques, bias prevention measures, validity and reliability, ARRIVE guidelines).
Use of a software dedicated to the observation of behavior (observation from videos).
R or SAS use for the calculation of interobserver fidelity and critical thinking relative to the use of indexes linked to this interobserver fidelity.
Correct mention of everything related to behavioral observation in the methodological section of a research report.
Contextualization of the observation work requested as part of a research work carried out in our laboratory.
Mode of delivery (face to face, distance learning, hybrid learning)
Face-to-face or virtual via eCampus Collaborate: both options are possible.
Organisational adjustments related to the current health context
Recommended or required readings
The theoretical course is based in part on the book by P. Martin & P. Bateson: "Measuring behavior. An introductory guide. Third Edition" (2007; Cambridge).
A few articles directly selected from the scientific literature will also serve as additional reading on one or other of the questions addressed during the oral course. These documents can be found on eCampus.
Assessment methods and criteria
Below you will find information on the evaluation methods planned for in-person and remote exams as well as those planned for hybrid sessions. Depending on how the health crisis evolves, the chosen method will be communicated to you no later than one month before the start of the exam session.
Any session :
- In-person
written exam
- Remote
written exam AND written work
- If evaluation in "hybrid"
preferred remote
Additional information:
Observation of behavior from videos and writing of a report in connection with this practical work which integrates the theoretical and practical notions seen during the course.
Namely :
Use of BORIS for the quantification of exploratory behavior.
Write a short report dealing with the implementation of the ORT test, the issue of concordance between observers and general conclusion regarding the data collected. (Report to be submitted by August 15 at the latest).
Work placement(s)
Organizational remarks
The behavior observation tool can be used from a computer in our laboratory or from a personal computer (we will help you install it).
Contacts
André FERRARA : a.ferrara@uliege.be or 04/366.22.32