PSY 630
Seminar in Social Psychology
Fall Semester, 1999
R. Sherman
Guidelines for Term Project Papers
1. Content: The goal of the paper is to offer you the opportunity to explore some topic of interest in more depth than has been possible during our discussions. The term paper may take one of two forms: (1) a research proposal that represents an extension of some trend or an attempted resolution of a current issue within the field, or (2) a critical review and conceptual analysis of the literature relevant to an issue pertaining to social psychological aspects of internet technology. The topic in either case need not necessarily be one specifically covered in seminar meetings, but should be in line with the general theme of the course. The research proposal should follow the general style of an APA manuscript, but with a somewhat expanded introduction section in which you review literature that illustrates the trend and the theoretical/empirical context for the study you propose, and a discussion section which explores the possible results, the importance of alternative outcomes, and the implications of the various alternatives. The method section should be detailed enough for you to establish (and me to evaluate) the adequacy of your proposal for answering the questions posed in the introduction. The research should be "do-able" with the resources normally available to graduate students. A critical review/analysis paper should be styled after articles found in Psychological Bulletin -- summaries and critical evaluations of research and theory in a particular area, with specification of the issue they represent and thoughtful examination of the implications of the of the issue for the field.
2. Format: Use APA style for headings, references, and clarity of exposition, as well as avoiding gender specific language. For trend analysis papers, the usual sections (Method, Results, Discussion) are not appropriate. Instead, you will have to use some creativity to create headings and sections that will clearly and effectively communicate your thoughts. Obviously, though, the convention of introducing your topic, then finishing with some overall summary or set of conclusions, is highly recommended. Proposals should more closely follow the usual structure of an introduction and method section. Include an anticipated results and implications section which will explore the patterns of data that might be obtained and how they might reflect on the problem or theoretical framework you are exploring and the trend or issue they represent.
The final paper should be typed or word-processed, and should be long enough to do the job (probably 15-20 pages). Make two copies of the paper. One will be returned with comments. The other will be made available to other students in the class for about 1 month into next semester, then it will be returned to you also.
The paper is due the last day of classes (Friday, December 10th).
3. Evaluation: Your paper will be graded on the following dimensions: clarity of writing, rigor of analysis, thoroughness of treatment, and aptness of focus.
4. Consultation: Please feel free to consult with me at any time about your topic or your approach to the paper.
Psy 630 Miami University. Last revised: . This document has been accessed times since Sept 20, 1999. Comments & Questions to R. Sherman . Also See: Social Psychology at Miami University