Veidlapa Nr. M-3 (8)
Study Course Description
Academic Placement in Psychology
Course Code
VPUPK_422
Branch of Science
Psychology
ECTS
6.00
Target Audience
Psychology
LQF
Level 6
Study Type And Form
Full-Time; Part-Time
Study Course Implementer
Course Supervisor
Laura Juhansone-Daugule
Structure Unit Manager
Kristīne Mārtinsone
Structural Unit
Department of Health Psychology and Paedagogy
Contacts
Dzirciema Street 16, Riga, vppk@rsu.lv
About Study Course
Objective
Provide students with the opportunity to structurally integrate research knowledge acquired in studies with practical participation in the implementation of the academic study (in the context of Bachelor’s thesis) by developing research skills (planning, literature analysis, data collection, initial analysis and interpretation), professional/academic identity, adherence to academic integrity and ethical principles, as well as academic communication and socialisation.
Within the framework of the course, students develop and implement an individual plan of academic placement, participate in academic seminars and scientific conferences, perform empirical data collection for Bachelor’s thesis, as well as document and reflect their professional experience. The course promotes student preparedness for Bachelor’s thesis development and continuation of studies in the next study cycle.
Preliminary Knowledge
Study in Psychology, semester paper.
Learning Outcomes
Knowledge
1.Describe the stages of implementation of the bachelor study, their sequence and their interdependence.
2.Describes the basic principles of investigative ethics and academic integrity in psychology.
3.Describes scientific research designs and data collection methods in psychology.
4.5. Explains the importance of academic communication, scientific conferences and seminars in professional development.
5.Describes the basic principles of open science in psychology.
Skills
1.Plans and implements an individual plan of academic practice.
2.Formulate the research question and justify the choice of an appropriate research design.
3.Select, analyse and critically evaluate scientific literature for the Bachelor’s thesis by drawing up references in accordance with academic requirements.
4.Organise and carry out the collection of empirical data in compliance with ethical and data protection requirements.
5.Initial processing of the data obtained shall be carried out and the quality of the data obtained shall be evaluated.
6.Document the progress of academic placement in the Placement Journal and portfolio.
7.Present the course of the study and intermediate results in the academic environment.
8.Reflect on their professional and academic development, setting future development goals.
Competences
1.Integrate theoretical knowledge with experience of academic practice in psychology.
2.Independently organises its research activity in the context of Bachelor’s thesis development.
3.Act professionally and ethically in an academic and research environment.
4.Communicate and cooperate within the academic community in accordance with the principles of scientific discussion.
5.Assess their research competencies and plan for their further development.
Assessment
Individual work
|
Title
|
% from total grade
|
Grade
|
|---|---|---|
|
1.
Drawing up of an individual academic placement plan, systematic documentation, implementation, drawing up of reports |
-
|
Test
|
|
2.
Participation in various scientific and professional events in the field of psychology |
-
|
Test
|
|
3.
Development of own research project, development of project presentation |
-
|
Test
|
|
4.
Participation in the collection of research data |
-
|
Test
|
Examination
|
Title
|
% from total grade
|
Grade
|
|---|---|---|
|
1.
Literature review/analysis summary for Bachelor’s thesis. |
-
|
Test
|
|
A defined subject and selection criteria; selected and compiled scientific sources; critical evaluation of key findings and identification of future research directions; the theoretical justification and relation to research issues are structured. |
||
|
2.
Interim presentation of Bachelor’s thesis project. |
-
|
Test
|
|
Formulated topic and reasonable topicality/problem; defined tasks; formulated research questions and/or hypotheses; outlined theoretical model and its relevance to research issues. |
||
|
3.
Academic placement report |
-
|
Test
|
|
Describes the objectives of the practice and the tasks performed (including participation in seminars/conferences, involvement in the preparation of the study and/or data collection); an aggregation of results achieved and skills acquired; includes a brief reflection on professional/academic development; specifies how data storage/anonymisation and management of sources (references) were organised during the placement. |
||
|
4.
Bachelor’s thesis predefense |
100.00% from total grade
|
10 points
|
|
Bachelor’s thesis presentation developed. Includes ethical aspects of the study; describes the justification for the study, establishes a literature review and detailed study methodology, adds a description of the results and establishes an interpretation of the results; limitations of the study have been evaluated. |
||
Study Course Theme Plan
FULL-TIME
Part 1
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Concept, objectives and role of academic Placement in Psychology Studies
Description
The topic discusses the concept of academic practice, its objectives and place in the psychology study programme, as well as the link with learning outcomes and professional development. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Ethical and professional principles of academic practice in psychology
Description
The topic focuses on the principles of professional conduct, responsibility and ethics in academic and research activities in psychology. Academic integrity principles, correct use of data and ethical responsibility issues in research are addressed, including responsible use of AI’s other digital tools in the research process. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Development and implementation of an individual academic placement plan
Description
Students shall draw up an individual placement plan specifying the objectives, tasks, timeline and expected results of the placement. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Linking Bachelor’s thesis topic to academic practice
Description
Within the scope of the topic, linking placement activities to the Bachelor’s thesis topic, research question and work structure is ensured. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Formulation of research question and choice of research design
Description
Skills to formulate research questions, choose an appropriate research design and methodological approach are being developed. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Selection, analysis and use of scientific literature in practice
Description
Students learn the principles of scientific literature search, selection and critical analysis using academic databases. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Methods of psychological research and their application in academic practice
Description
The topic focuses on the application of various methods of quantitative and qualitative research in academic practice. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Documenting academic Placement: Placement Journal, portfolio and report
Description
Systematic documentation of the course of the placement is acquired by preparing a placement journal, portfolio and final report. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Scientific conferences and academic seminars in psychology
Description
The role of scientific conferences and seminars in the field of psychology and in the professional development of the student is analysed. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Participation in academic events as a form of professional socialisation
Description
Students participate in academic activities by developing professional communication and cooperation skills. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Dissemination of research results in the academic environment in psychology
Description
The topic is dedicated to the dissemination of research results and academic communication in psychology, emphasising scientific reasoning, lecture theatre selection and presentation of results in the academic environment. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Scientific communication and discussion in psychology
Description
Skills to participate in scientific discussions, provide and receive academic feedback are being developed. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Scientific communication and discussion in psychology
Description
Skills to participate in scientific discussions, provide and receive academic feedback are being developed. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Reflection as a tool for professional and academic development
Description
Within the scope of the topic, students reflect on the acquired experience, evaluate the results achieved and identify future development directions. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Reflection as a tool for professional and academic development
Description
Within the scope of the topic, students reflect on the acquired experience, evaluate the results achieved and identify future development directions. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Basic principles of Open Science in Psychology
Description
Students get to know the principles of open science, transparency of research and the fundamentals of data management. |
Total ECTS (Creditpoints):
3.00
Contact hours:
32 Academic Hours
Final Examination:
Test (Semester)
Part 2
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Organisation and implementation of data collection within Bachelor’s thesis: sample, instruments, procedure, schedule
Description
The data collection process, its planning, organisation and practical implementation shall be considered in accordance with the objectives of the study. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Documentation of the data collection process and data management
Description
The topic focuses on documenting the data collection process and guiding principles in data management, ensuring transparency and traceability of the research process. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Attracting and selecting respondents
Description
The topic focuses on the principles of attracting study participants, sampling approaches, and determining criteria for inclusion and exclusion. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Informed consent and data confidentiality
Description
The topic focuses on aspects of informed consent and ensuring the confidentiality of personal data during the study process. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Evaluation of data quality. Preparation of data for analysis: encoding, missing data, error checking.
Description
Students familiarize themselves with the criteria for evaluating data quality and perform preliminary data processing and prepare data for analysis. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Initial data analysis.
Description
Students carry out an initial analysis of the data based on the data produced. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Data analysis plan: choice and justification of methods of analysis.
Description
Students draw up a data analysis plan and choose methods of analysis. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Clarification of the data analysis plan and the design structure of the results.
Description
The topic is dedicated to structuring and designing data analysis results according to academic requirements. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Interpretation of data and preparation of part of a discussion
Description
Students interpret the study data and prepare part of the discussion according to the objectives of the study and the results obtained. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Limitations of the study and evaluation of scientific strength
Description
The topic is dedicated to evaluating the limitations and results of the study. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Formulation of conclusions and prospects for further study
Description
The topic concerns the formulation of the conclusions of the study and the identification of possible future research directions. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Selection of study results for presentation in the academic environment
Description
The topic is dedicated to the selection of study results for presentation purposes, highlighting the most relevant results according to the purpose of the study and research tasks. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Selection of study results for presentation in the academic environment
Description
The topic is dedicated to the selection of study results for presentation purposes, highlighting the most relevant results according to the purpose of the study and research tasks. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Preparation of research results for presentation in the academic environment
Description
The topic is dedicated to preparing the results of the study for presentation in the academic environment by combining the selected results into a single presentation. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Preparation of research results for presentation in the academic environment
Description
The topic is dedicated to preparing the results of the study for presentation in the academic environment by combining the selected results into a single presentation. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Contribution of academic placement to Bachelor’s thesis quality and continuation of studies
Description
The importance of academic placement in the quality assurance and preparedness of the Bachelor’s thesis for the continuation of studies is assessed. |
Total ECTS (Creditpoints):
3.00
Contact hours:
32 Academic Hours
Final Examination:
Defence (Placement)
PART-TIME
Part 1
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Concept, objectives and role of academic Placement in Psychology Studies
Description
The topic discusses the concept of academic practice, its objectives and place in the psychology study programme, as well as the link with learning outcomes and professional development. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Ethical and professional principles of academic practice in psychology
Description
The topic focuses on the principles of professional conduct, responsibility and ethics in academic and research activities in psychology. Academic integrity principles, correct use of data and ethical responsibility issues in research are addressed, including responsible use of AI’s other digital tools in the research process. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Development and implementation of an individual academic placement plan
Description
Students shall draw up an individual placement plan specifying the objectives, tasks, timeline and expected results of the placement. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Linking Bachelor’s thesis topic to academic practice
Description
Within the scope of the topic, linking placement activities to the Bachelor’s thesis topic, research question and work structure is ensured. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Formulation of research question and choice of research design
Description
Skills to formulate research questions, choose an appropriate research design and methodological approach are being developed. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Selection, analysis and use of scientific literature in practice
Description
Students learn the principles of scientific literature search, selection and critical analysis using academic databases. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Methods of psychological research and their application in academic practice
Description
The topic focuses on the application of various methods of quantitative and qualitative research in academic practice. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Documenting academic Placement: Placement Journal, portfolio and report
Description
Systematic documentation of the course of the placement is acquired by preparing a placement journal, portfolio and final report. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Scientific conferences and academic seminars in psychology
Description
The role of scientific conferences and seminars in the field of psychology and in the professional development of the student is analysed. |
|
Participation in academic events as a form of professional socialisation
Description
Students participate in academic activities by developing professional communication and cooperation skills. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Dissemination of research results in the academic environment in psychology
Description
The topic is dedicated to the dissemination of research results and academic communication in psychology, emphasising scientific reasoning, lecture theatre selection and presentation of results in the academic environment. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Scientific communication and discussion in psychology
Description
Skills to participate in scientific discussions, provide and receive academic feedback are being developed. |
|
Reflection as a tool for professional and academic development
Description
Within the scope of the topic, students reflect on the acquired experience, evaluate the results achieved and identify future development directions. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Basic principles of Open Science in Psychology
Description
Students get to know the principles of open science, transparency of research and the fundamentals of data management. |
Total ECTS (Creditpoints):
3.00
Contact hours:
24 Academic Hours
Final Examination:
Test (Semester)
Part 2
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Organisation and implementation of data collection within Bachelor’s thesis: sample, instruments, procedure, schedule
Description
The data collection process, its planning, organisation and practical implementation shall be considered in accordance with the objectives of the study. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Documentation of the data collection process and data management
Description
The topic focuses on documenting the data collection process and guiding principles in data management, ensuring transparency and traceability of the research process. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Attracting and selecting respondents
Description
The topic focuses on the principles of attracting study participants, sampling approaches, and determining criteria for inclusion and exclusion. |
|
Informed consent and data confidentiality
Description
The topic focuses on aspects of informed consent and ensuring the confidentiality of personal data during the study process. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Evaluation of data quality. Preparation of data for analysis: encoding, missing data, error checking.
Description
Students familiarize themselves with the criteria for evaluating data quality and perform preliminary data processing and prepare data for analysis. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Initial data analysis.
Description
Students carry out an initial analysis of the data based on the data produced. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Data analysis plan: choice and justification of methods of analysis.
Description
Students draw up a data analysis plan and choose methods of analysis. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Clarification of the data analysis plan and the design structure of the results.
Description
The topic is dedicated to structuring and designing data analysis results according to academic requirements. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Interpretation of data and preparation of part of a discussion
Description
Students interpret the study data and prepare part of the discussion according to the objectives of the study and the results obtained. |
|
Limitations of the study and evaluation of scientific strength
Description
The topic is dedicated to evaluating the limitations and results of the study. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Formulation of conclusions and prospects for further study
Description
The topic concerns the formulation of the conclusions of the study and the identification of possible future research directions. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Selection of study results for presentation in the academic environment
Description
The topic is dedicated to the selection of study results for presentation purposes, highlighting the most relevant results according to the purpose of the study and research tasks. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Preparation of research results for presentation in the academic environment
Description
The topic is dedicated to preparing the results of the study for presentation in the academic environment by combining the selected results into a single presentation. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Contribution of academic placement to Bachelor’s thesis quality and continuation of studies
Description
The importance of academic placement in the quality assurance and preparedness of the Bachelor’s thesis for the continuation of studies is assessed. |
Total ECTS (Creditpoints):
3.00
Contact hours:
24 Academic Hours
Final Examination:
Defence (Placement)
Bibliography
Required Reading
1.
Mārtinsone, K. un Pipere, A. (red.). (2021). Zinātniskā rakstīšana un pētījumu rezultātu izplatīšana. RSU izdevniecība.
2.
Mārtinsone, K. un Pipere, A. (red.). (2016). Zinātniskās darbības metodoloģija: starpdisciplināra perspektīva. RSU izdevniecība.
3.
Rīgas Stradiņa universitātes Veselības psiholoģijas un pedagoģijas katedra. (2026). Psiholoģijas virziena metodiskie norādījumi kursa, bakalaura un maģistra darbu izstrādei [Darba versija]. Rīgas Stradiņa universitāte.
Additional Reading
1.
Goodwin, J. (2018) Research in Psychology. Methods and Design. New York: John Willey.
2.
Mārtinsone, K., Pipere A. (Red.). (2011). Ievads pētniecībā. Stratēģijas, dizaini, metodes. Rīga: Raka
3.
Pētniecības terminu skaidrojošā vārdnīca (2011). Sast. I. Eņģele. Rīga: RaKa.
4.
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Pētījumi datu bāzēs, atbilstoši izvēlētajai projekta tēmai psiholoģijā.