PSY4111 - Psychology 1A - 2018

Introduction to the discipline of psychology as a behavioural science. Topics include personality, the biological bases of behaviour, sensation and perception, an introduction to theories of learning and development, plus an introduction to the historical origins of the discipline. Online activities (for example interactive skills development, formative quiz presentations) and discussion forums, aim to enhance students' understanding of the lecture material and provide training in research techniques.

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

1. Discriminate between key psychological theories related to learning, development, sensation and personality.
2. Summarize how the major historical frameworks and biological discoveries have shaped the modern scientific discipline of psychology.
3. Apply psychological principles and theories to real-world situations.
4. Demonstrate communication and IT skills in the presentation of an oral report.
5. Research the literature on a topic of relevance and synthesise findings into a concise report.

• Critical evaluation tasks (10%)
• Article matrix (15%)
• Oral presentation (15%)
• Systematic review (20%)
• 6 x Secure online quizzes (40%) (hurdle)

Students should expect to spend a minimum of 20 hours per week on this unit to achieve the learning outcomes.

This time will cover:

1. video lecture materials;
2. synchronous & asynchronous discussion;
3. synchronous web-based 'class-time' for skills-based activities;
4. weekly readings;
5. weekly skills-based assessment tasks; and
6. content-based assessment, including revision and formative assessment.

See also Unit timetable information

Psychology