PSY4200

Psychology honours: Theory and practice ( 24 points, SCA Band 1, 0.500 EFTSL)

Leader: Dr Greg Yelland

Offered:
Caulfield Full year 2006 (Day)
Caulfield Full year 2006 (OCL)
Clayton Full year 2006 (Day)
Clayton Full year 2006 (OCL)
Singapore Full year 2006 (OCL)
South Africa Full year 2006 (Day)

Synopsis: The Honours year in psychology aims to increase student understanding of theoretical and methodological aspects of research, develop their analytic, research and communications skills, as well as provide students with advanced knowledge in specific areas of the science and practice of psychology. The Honours program also meets the requirements of the Australian Psychological Society for Associate Membership. In this unit, students complete coursework components designed to expand their knowledge of statistics and the ethics of psychological research and practice, and broaden their understanding of the discipline. Students will also complete, under supervision, a major theoretical essay.

Objectives: On completion of PSY4200 Psychology Honours Theory and Practice students will: 1. be able to critically review and analyse the scientific literature in, and theoretical basis to, current issues in psychology, 2. understand the processes involved in the design, development and implementation of a research project, 3. be proficient in the use of advanced univariate and multivariate statistical procedures relevant to psychology, 4. understand the legal and ethical issues involved in research and practice in psychology, 5. be proficient in the use of computer-based presentation, word processing, SPSS analysis, data-base/internet search software, 7. show communication skills in both oral and written presentations to both a specialist and non-specialist scientific audience, 8. have gained insight into the breadth and diversity of psychological disciplines, 9. have the capability to pursue higher studies and learning in psychology.

Assessment: Two exams: 30% + Seminar Presentation, discussion and essay (1500 words): 10% + Theoretical essay (9000 words): 60%

Contact Hours: 1 hours/week of lectures, 1.5 hours/week of seminars, 10 hours SPSS computer workshops mid year, and 1/2 week supervision of theoretical essay. The remainder of the time would be spent in library searches, reading and preparation of a seminar presentation, and the theoretical and contemporary issues essays.

Prerequisites: Completed Bachelors Degree with an APS accredited 3-year major sequence in Psychology

Corequisites: PSY4100

Prohibitions: PSY4001, PSY4002, PSY4011, PSY4012, PSY4021, PSY4022