Methods Toward a Science of Behavior and Experience

Ray's unique philosophy of science approach focuses on two major goals: Introducing students to the basics of science and to the spirit that motivates many scientists; and helping students make the transition from outside observer of science to active participant. Although most students grasp the idea of asking testable questions, they often have an uncertainty of what exactly it is they are testing in research. To help clarify this point, Ray has presented the process of hypothesis testing both conceptually and practically. This information is important not only for those who seek a career in research, but also for anyone who wishes to understand the daily headlines involving scientific research. To help faculty teach this course and to help students understand the material better, Ray has made a special effort to define and illustrate general problem areas for students. These areas include concept of interaction effect, interpretation of interaction effects, meaning of causation in science and the use of the terms error and chance in relation to experimentation. In addition, Ray includes end-of-chapter summaries, with questions to test and integrate the material presented in the chapter This additional emphasis in clarifying more important concepts will help students walk away with a handle on key concepts of the course.

William J. Ray is professor of psychology at Pennsylvania State University, where he was the director of the Clinical Training Program from 1991 to 1997. His research focus lies at the interface of clinical psychology and psychophysiology (particularly EEG), as related to anxiety, dissociation, emotionality, and motoric processes. Part of this work has been basic in nature, as reflected in trying to understand what basic psychophysiological measures can tell us, as well as how they can be applied. Current work in the lab focuses on anxiety, lapse of awareness, dissociation, and hypnosis, as well as the use of nonlinear dynamical techniques referred to as chaos. He has published extensively throughout his career, with well over 100 journal publications, presentations and scholarly text publications. He has reviewed for more than 30 journals and numerous government agencies. He was on the accreditation committee for the APA, including its executive board (1995-2000).