PMH3110 - Psychology impact internship - 2017

This elective unit will involve students being placed as interns within host partner organisations, to demonstrate the broad range of opportunities that are available to psychology graduates, and diverse settings in which psychological knowledge may be applied. Students will complete either a unique research project or work experience-based project jointly defined by the host partner organisation and the unit coordinator.

The five potential streams students may be allocated to include:

• Industry Settings (e.g. biotechnology organisations)
• Clinical Settings (e.g. psychology clinics)
• Research Settings (e.g. MICCN laboratories)
• Health & Community Settings (e.g. non-for-profit organisations)
• Global Settings (e.g. international mental health placements).

The main component of the unit involves students undertaking a minimum of 72 hours equivalent of placement in order to complete their in-semester assessments.

The remaining 72 hours will be spent on reflection, self-directed learning and maintenance of assessments, spread across the semester.

Upon successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

1. Explain how core concepts and theories of Psychology relate to a variety of professional settings, in particular the setting to which the student is assigned
2. Critically evaluate their own actions, leadership skills, and professional development since commencing their internship
3. Explore how to effectively collaborate with co-workers and supervisors in a professional setting
4. Communicate clearly and effectively the professional expectations of their assigned organisation, and the benefits and challenges of working in a professional environment
5. Engage in peer discussion regarding appropriate conduct when dealing with core professional issues
6. Exercise critical thinking and professional judgement within new workplace environments

During the internship, students are required to complete:

• Reflective assessment (3,500 words) (60%) (hurdle)
• Mid-internship oral presentation (15 minutes) (30%)
• Non-invigilated discussion forum (10%)

This unit is pass grade only (PGO).

Hurdle requirement

All students must attend the Pre-Internship Induction.

Minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester.

It is expected that 72 hours minimum will be spent in an internship with an assigned organisation.

The remaining time will be spent on within-semester assessments and self-directed learning, concurrent with internships.

See also Unit timetable information

Dr Trevor Chong

Psychology

Students who have attained at least a distinction (70%) average, completed 48 credit points, and PSY2061 and PSY2071.

Please note, some internships may require one of the following: Working With Children's Check (WWCC), Police Check, immunisations/vaccinations.

Must be enrolled in course M3005.