Investigating the psychological world : scientific method in the behavioral sciences

Abstract

in relation to behavioral research methods. It follows John Dewey’s (1910) lead and suggests that we adopt an inquiry-oriented conception of education that accords an important place to scientific method. The narrow nature of, and uncritical approach to, the teaching and use of research methods in psychology are highlighted in some of the chapters. The need to teach for a more critical understanding of research methods is a natural consequence of acknowledging the importance of the domain of research methodology. In light of the requirements of a genuine liberal education, the author make constructive proposals for reforming the methods curriculum. The nature of ATOM and its methodological foundations shape many of these curriculum proposals.