Measurement, Method and Analysis: Past and possible future influence on psychological research.

Speaker: Beryl Hesketh

Affiliation: University of Western Sydney

Time: Monday 14/03/2011 from 14:00 to 15:00

Venue: Meeting Room (ER.1.23), Parramatta UWS

Abstract: This presentation will be a thought piece. As in other sciences, many of the thereotical and empirical advances in psychology have arisen because of developments in measurement, method and analysis. Examples will be given from several fields of psychology. A case will be presented to illustrate that psychology is yet to optimise its use of computing and information technology, having largely adapted existing pencil and paper measures and methods for delivery on computer or over the web. A 'science fiction' approach will be taken to exploring what might be possible future uses of computing in psychological research (second life, computer media, visualisation etc), including the challenges that this will place on appropriate statistical analysis. The purpose of the seminar is to obtain input and ideas from the participants, so audience participation will be essential.

Biography: Emeritus Professor Beryl Hesketh is an Organisational Psychologist. Over the past 30 plus years she has researched applied decision-making (careers, selection, training, driving, and most recently retirement), for which she has received consistent ARC funding since arriving in Australia 25 years ago. Her approach is theoretically based, but with an applied focus. She is currently working on an ARC funded project on retirement decision-making, with Dr Barbara Griffin. Beryl retired from 15 years of senior executive responsibilities in early 2010, most recently as Executive Dean of the College of Health and Science at UWS. Through her roles at UWS and at the University of Sydney, she has had responsibility for technology, engineering, science and health, and has always had a strong interest in computing.