Design and Analysis

Abstract:

A critical aspect of moving psychology into the realm of paradigmatic science, and of ensuring the development and meaningful dissemination of empirically supported interventions, is competency in research design and statistical analysis. We present evidence that psychology graduate programs are not performing as well as they might in this area of training. An expanded version of the Competency Cube Model is used to present the specific skills that are central to seven areas of research design and data analysis by levels of training (bachelors, master's, doctoral) and career path (clinical, research). The seven areas include: problem conceptualization, measurement and scaling, research methodology, core statistics, specialized statistical procedures, data analysis and management, and communication of findings. In keeping with the Competency Cube Model, we discuss both foundational (broad professional skills) and functional (area-specific skills) competencies