Academic Writing
Study Course Implementer
Dzirciema Street 16, Riga, vppk@rsu.lv
About Study Course
Objective
Prepare students for the development of Bachelor’s thesis by developing skills in the structuring and design of a scientific paper, as well as strengthening research competences through actual pilot study, data analysis and interpretation of results in accordance with academic standards in psychology.
Preliminary Knowledge
Understanding the methodology of scientific research, research designs and data collection methods in psychology.
Basic knowledge of mathematical statistics and principles of quantitative data processing (descriptive and inferential statistics).
Knowledge of psychological measurements, theoretical basics for the development and adaptation of tests.
Skills to work with databases of scientific literature and navigate the structure of academic text.
Learning Outcomes
Knowledge
1.Understands the structures and design principles of the scientific paper and various types of publications (empirical Article, literature review, meta-analysis) in accordance with the APA style and RSU methodological instructions.
Pilot study report
2.Demonstrates knowledge of scientific information retrieval strategies and criteria for evaluating source credibility and relevance, as well as understands the principles of AI research tools and the requirements of academic integrity in their application.
Pilot study report • Research Project Development
3.Recognises the specificity of the adaptation of research instruments and international standards (e.g. TARES, prism) to reflect the study methodology.
Pilot study report • Preparation for Data Collection (Digital Survey Development)
4.Describe the study ethics, informed consent and basic GDPR requirements in the context of the pilot study.
Pilot study report • Research Project Development
5.Explain the role of the Open Science and data Management Plan in the transparency of the study.
Development of a Data Management Plan
6.Understands the fundamental principles of data analysis, requirements for statistical methods, and the logic behind interpretation algorithms.
Development of a Data Analysis Plan • Create and present a poster or presentation • Pilot study report
7.Able to identify and justify structural elements of scientific poster or presentation and their role in reflecting the progress of the study.
Create and present a poster or presentation
Skills
1.Is able to independently select literature relevant to the research topic using specialized databases and AI assistants, and purposefully integrate the gathered information into an analytical literature review, ensuring synthesis of sources and logical argumentation.
Research Project Development • Pilot study report
2.Able to independently plan the research process by selecting appropriate methodology, sampling principles, and data analysis strategies while ensuring adherence to research ethics standards and data protection.
Pilot study report • Research Project Development • Create and present a poster or presentation
3.Able to independently develop research instruments in a digital environment, ensuring logical structure, data collection reliability, and the practical application of research ethics.
Preparation for Data Collection (Digital Survey Development)
4.Able to independently develop a research data management plan by selecting appropriate data storage, security, and sharing solutions in accordance with the principles of good scientific practice.
Development of a Data Management Plan
5.Able to justify and select data analysis methods appropriate for the research questions, data types, and measurement scales, ensuring the methodological consistency of the research process.
Development of a Data Analysis Plan • Pilot study report
6.Perform statistical data processing (JASP, Jamovi or SPSS), refreshing knowledge of test selection, data re-encryption and reliability calculation.
Pilot study report • Create and present a poster or presentation
7.Able to synthesize and visualise extensive research information (text, data) using graphic tools and techniques consistent with academic standards.
Create and present a poster or presentation • Pilot study report
8.Draw up the results obtained in correct APA style tables and graphs, providing an accurate and academically sound description of the statistical indicators.
Create and present a poster or presentation
9.Applies specialized software (Zotero/Mendeley) for literature management and automated reference generation, and critically evaluates the use of AI tools in academic writing.
Research Project Development • Pilot study report
Competences
1.Reasonable decisions on improvements to the pilot study shall be taken on the basis of data quality, enforceability and ethical requirements.
Pilot study report • Research Project Development
2.Argumentatively defenders methodological choices in academic discussion (Q & a).
Create and present a poster or presentation
3.Critically evaluates the suitability and limitations of the chosen methods to ensure the validity of research conclusions.
Create and present a poster or presentation • Pilot study report • Development of a Data Analysis Plan
4.Able to independently plan and implement an appraisal of an empirical study (pilot study) by making informed decisions on improvements in methodology or instruments.
Pilot study report • Create and present a poster or presentation
5.Communicate the findings of the study professionally, using different types of scientific communication (oral presentations, posters) and substantiating their conclusions in an academic discussion.
Create and present a poster or presentation
6.Integrate and synthesize the study results with theoretical literature by producing a structured and methodically accurate scientific report (Article).
Pilot study report
7.Critically evaluates ethical and technical challenges arising during the research process, demonstrating a responsible attitude toward research participants and the quality of the acquired data.
Pilot study report • Create and present a poster or presentation
Assessment
Individual work
|
Title
|
% from total grade
|
Grade
|
|---|---|---|
|
1.
Research Project Development |
-
|
Test
|
|
Objective: The goal of this assignment is to develop a formal research proposal that demonstrates the student's ability to conceptualize a scientific problem and select a methodologically sound approach for its investigation. Assignment Components:
Learning Outcomes: Upon completion, the student will have produced a structured research plan that serves as a foundation for a bachelor’s thesis or a scientific publication, confirming their proficiency in planning the research process from initial concept to data analysis strategy. |
||
|
2.
Preparation for Data Collection (Digital Survey Development) |
-
|
Test
|
|
Objective: To practically prepare the research instrument by digitalizing the developed survey and ensuring its technical and ethical readiness for the commencement of data collection. Assignment Components:
|
||
|
3.
Development of a Data Management Plan |
-
|
Test
|
|
Objective: To prepare a comprehensive Data Management Plan (DMP) to ensure the security, organization, and compliance of the research data with the principles of open science and data protection. Assignment Components:
|
||
|
4.
Development of a Data Analysis Plan |
-
|
Test
|
|
Objective: To prepare a detailed data analysis strategy that ensures the answering of research questions or testing of hypotheses using statistical and interpretative methods appropriate for the research design. Assignment Components:
|
||
Examination
|
Title
|
% from total grade
|
Grade
|
|---|---|---|
|
1.
Create and present a poster or presentation |
30.00% from total grade
|
10 points
|
|
Task Description: Students shall prepare a visual material (a poster or a presentation) that succinctly reflects the scientific value of the research and the obtained results. The focus of the task is on the ability to transform extensive research information into a transparent, logically structured, and visually accessible format. Content Outline:
|
||
|
2.
Pilot study report |
70.00% from total grade
|
10 points
|
|
Task Description: At the end of the course, students shall prepare a written pilot study report formatted according to the structure of a scientific publication (article). The focus of the work is on the ability not only to present data but also to critically evaluate the effectiveness of the research design and plan necessary improvements. Structure of the Report:
Technical Requirements Adherence to Structure: The report must strictly follow the defined scientific article structure and the logical sequence of its sections. Formatting Requirements: Compliance with academic manuscript formatting guidelines (font selection, line spacing, heading styles, and page numbering). Academic Integrity: Correct use of in-text citations and references, and the precise compilation of a bibliography according to the selected citation standard. Quality of Visual Elements: Formatting of tables and figures (numbering and captions) in accordance with scientific publication standards. |
||
Study Course Theme Plan
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
4
|
Topics
|
Introduction to academic writing
Description
The lecture covers the fundamentals of academic writing and introduces the typology of scientific publications (empirical articles, literature reviews, and meta-analyses). Specific methodologies and international standards for each article type (e.g., PRISMA guidelines) are explained. Particular attention is devoted to the logic of using reference management software (Zotero, Mendeley) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools, analyzing the boundaries of academic integrity in literature search and text editing. The lecture provides a methodological roadmap for applying university requirements and APA style in the development of scientific manuscripts. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Computer room
|
4
|
Topics
|
introduction to academic writing
Description
The practical sessions aim to develop students' analytical and technical skills in handling scientific information. Students practically analyze the structures of various publication types ("Structure Detective") and critically evaluate the methodological quality of published research ("The Critical Reader"). In a workstation format, students master effective literature retrieval by comparing traditional databases with AI tools (Elicit, Consensus) and practice automated citation formatting. Emphasis is placed on the ability to independently create a bibliographic database and integrate in-text citations according to APA style and methodological guidelines. |
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
4
|
Topics
|
Preparation for Research: From Project to Approbation
Description
The lecture covers the practical steps for initiating an empirical study by transforming a theoretical research project into an actionable operational plan. It analyzes the specifics of various research designs (descriptive, correlational, experimental) and their alignment with research objectives. The lecture provides an in-depth examination of research ethics and legal requirements in psychology, including the preparation of ethics committee applications and the management of informed consent protocols. Students learn data management planning in accordance with Open Science principles, covering the data life cycle, confidentiality assurance, and secure data archiving. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Computer room
|
4
|
Topics
|
Lesson: Preparation for Research: From Project to Approbation
Description
The objective of the practical sessions is the technical revision of the research project and the approbation of research instruments. During the sessions, students conduct a "research project audit," refining the alignment between hypotheses and data analysis methods while assessing project feasibility. In the second stage, students develop technical skills in the digitalization of research instruments by creating electronic surveys on research platforms (e.g., RedCap, Google Forms). Through a real-world pilot study with a small sample, students practically verify instrument functionality and prepare datasets for subsequent statistical analysis. |
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
4
|
Topics
|
Course Description: Data Processing, Statistical Analysis, and Presentation of Results
Description
Within the lecture, students refresh and consolidate previously acquired knowledge of statistical data analysis, focusing on its purposeful integration into the research process. Principles of "data hygiene" and the verification of psychometric properties are discussed as prerequisites for high-quality interpretation of results. The lecture reactivates the logic of selecting statistical methods based on research design, preparing students for evidence-based data explanation and the development of meaningful scientific discussion. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Computer room
|
4
|
Topics
|
Lesson: Data Processing, Statistical Analysis, and Presentation of Results
Description
In the practical session, students practically apply and refine their skills using analysis software (JASP, Jamovi, or SPSS), with an emphasis on the academic presentation of results. The primary task is to develop the ability to transform statistical software outputs into logical and methodologically sound academic prose. Students consolidate their skills in creating tables and figures according to APA style requirements, learning to integrate statistical indices into a scientific report so that they directly and clearly address the research questions. |
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
4
|
Topics
|
Scientific Communication and Presentation of Results
Description
The lecture focuses on various formats of scientific communication and their specifics. Students analyze the differences between oral presentations, poster presentations, and scientific publications, acquiring "soft skills" for engaging an audience. Special attention is devoted to developing the concluding sections of a publication—Discussion and Conclusions—learning how to integrate research findings into a broader theoretical and practical context. Additionally, principles of visual communication (data visualization) and the development of a researcher's digital identity are examined. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Computer room
|
4
|
Topics
|
Scientific Communication and Presentation of Research Results
Description
The practical session is organized as a simulated scientific conference, where students present the independently prepared results of their pilot studies. Emphasis is placed on refining skills to present data in a concise and visually accessible manner (using posters or slide presentations). The objective of the session is to train students' ability to provide reasoned answers to questions, critically discuss research limitations, and defend their conclusions before a professional audience, thereby synthesizing the academic writing and research skills acquired throughout the course. |
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
4
|
Topics
|
Introduction to academic writing
Description
The lecture covers the fundamentals of academic writing and introduces the typology of scientific publications (empirical articles, literature reviews, and meta-analyses). Specific methodologies and international standards for each article type (e.g., PRISMA guidelines) are explained. Particular attention is devoted to the logic of using reference management software (Zotero, Mendeley) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools, analyzing the boundaries of academic integrity in literature search and text editing. The lecture provides a methodological roadmap for applying university requirements and APA style in the development of scientific manuscripts. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Computer room
|
2
|
Topics
|
introduction to academic writing
Description
The practical sessions aim to develop students' analytical and technical skills in handling scientific information. Students practically analyze the structures of various publication types ("Structure Detective") and critically evaluate the methodological quality of published research ("The Critical Reader"). In a workstation format, students master effective literature retrieval by comparing traditional databases with AI tools (Elicit, Consensus) and practice automated citation formatting. Emphasis is placed on the ability to independently create a bibliographic database and integrate in-text citations according to APA style and methodological guidelines. |
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
4
|
Topics
|
Preparation for Research: From Project to Approbation
Description
The lecture covers the practical steps for initiating an empirical study by transforming a theoretical research project into an actionable operational plan. It analyzes the specifics of various research designs (descriptive, correlational, experimental) and their alignment with research objectives. The lecture provides an in-depth examination of research ethics and legal requirements in psychology, including the preparation of ethics committee applications and the management of informed consent protocols. Students learn data management planning in accordance with Open Science principles, covering the data life cycle, confidentiality assurance, and secure data archiving. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Computer room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Lesson: Preparation for Research: From Project to Approbation
Description
The objective of the practical sessions is the technical revision of the research project and the approbation of research instruments. During the sessions, students conduct a "research project audit," refining the alignment between hypotheses and data analysis methods while assessing project feasibility. In the second stage, students develop technical skills in the digitalization of research instruments by creating electronic surveys on research platforms (e.g., RedCap, Google Forms). Through a real-world pilot study with a small sample, students practically verify instrument functionality and prepare datasets for subsequent statistical analysis. |
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
4
|
Topics
|
Course Description: Data Processing, Statistical Analysis, and Presentation of Results
Description
Within the lecture, students refresh and consolidate previously acquired knowledge of statistical data analysis, focusing on its purposeful integration into the research process. Principles of "data hygiene" and the verification of psychometric properties are discussed as prerequisites for high-quality interpretation of results. The lecture reactivates the logic of selecting statistical methods based on research design, preparing students for evidence-based data explanation and the development of meaningful scientific discussion. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Computer room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Lesson: Data Processing, Statistical Analysis, and Presentation of Results
Description
In the practical session, students practically apply and refine their skills using analysis software (JASP, Jamovi, or SPSS), with an emphasis on the academic presentation of results. The primary task is to develop the ability to transform statistical software outputs into logical and methodologically sound academic prose. Students consolidate their skills in creating tables and figures according to APA style requirements, learning to integrate statistical indices into a scientific report so that they directly and clearly address the research questions. |
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
4
|
Topics
|
Scientific Communication and Presentation of Results
Description
The lecture focuses on various formats of scientific communication and their specifics. Students analyze the differences between oral presentations, poster presentations, and scientific publications, acquiring "soft skills" for engaging an audience. Special attention is devoted to developing the concluding sections of a publication—Discussion and Conclusions—learning how to integrate research findings into a broader theoretical and practical context. Additionally, principles of visual communication (data visualization) and the development of a researcher's digital identity are examined. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Scientific Communication and Presentation of Research Results
Description
The practical session is organized as a simulated scientific conference, where students present the independently prepared results of their pilot studies. Emphasis is placed on refining skills to present data in a concise and visually accessible manner (using posters or slide presentations). The objective of the session is to train students' ability to provide reasoned answers to questions, critically discuss research limitations, and defend their conclusions before a professional audience, thereby synthesizing the academic writing and research skills acquired throughout the course. |
Bibliography
Required Reading
Rīgas Stradiņa universitāte. (2026). Psiholoģijas virziena metodiskie norādījumi kursa, bakalaura un maģistra darbu izstrādei. Rīga: Rīgas Stradiņa universitāte.
American Psychological Association. (2020). Publication manual of the American Psychological Association (7th ed.).Suitable for English stream
Hernández, A., Tomás, I., Ferreres, A., & Lloret, S. (2015). TARES: Guidelines for reporting test adaptation and revision in Spain. Psicothema, 27(3), 314–319.Suitable for English stream
Additional Reading
Beins, B. C. (2017). APA style simplified: Writing in psychology, education, nursing, and sociology. Wiley Blackwell.Suitable for English stream
Field, A. (2018). Discovering statistics using IBM SPSS statistics (5th ed.). SAGE Publications.Suitable for English stream
Harris, S. R. (2020). Writing with clarity and style: A guide to rhetorical devices for contemporary writers. RoutledgeSuitable for English stream
Navarro, D. J., & Foxcroft, D. R. (2022). Learning statistics with jamovi: A tutorial for psychology students and other beginners.Suitable for English stream
Ziegler, M., Bäckström, M., Jagtap, S., Kandler, C., & Rammstedt, B. (2020). Psychological test adaptation and development – How papers are structured and why. Psychological Test Adaptation and Development, 1(1), 1–11.Suitable for English stream
Other Information Sources
APA Style. (n.d.). Journal article reporting standards (APA Style JARS).Suitable for English stream
Page, M. J., McKenzie, J. E., Bossuyt, P. M., Boutron, I., Hoffmann, T. C., Mulrow, C. D., ... & Moher, D. (2021). The PRISMA 2020 statement: An updated guideline for reporting systematic reviews. BMJ, 372(71).Suitable for English stream
COS (Center for Open Science) Resources. Izglītojoši materiāli un rīki par atvērto zinātni, pētījumu prereģistrāciju un datu atklātību.Suitable for English stream
OSF (Open Science Framework). Platforma pētījumu datu un materiālu drošai uzglabāšanai un kopīgošanai, ko izmanto datu pārvaldības plānu praktiskai realizācijai.Suitable for English stream