Psychology

Overview
Psychology is the scientific study of the human mind and behaviour. A major emphasis throughout the course is “how” science works”. Students will be involved in small scale research activities and in Year 13, students will be introduced to the use of statistics in psychological research .

Course Outline
AS Level
Unit 1: Cognitive Psychology, Developmental Psychology and Research Methods – In Cognitive Psychology we look at how our memory works in terms of how and why we remember some things, and why we forget others and the use of memory in everyday life. In Developmental Psychology we look at the relationship/ bond between a child and its main care-giver, the effects on the child of bond disruption and the possible irreversibility of these effects, we then go on to look at the impact of day care on everyday life.
Unit 2: Biological Psychology, Social Psychology and Individual Differences - In Biological Psychology we look at the bodily responses to stress and assessment of the various ways of managing stress in everyday life. In Social Psychology we look at how human behaviour is affected by the presence of others and the implications of conducting research on human participants. When we study Individual differences we will look at defining abnormality and a detailed view of the biological and psychological ways of explaining and treating abnormality.

Throughout the above ubits you will be required to be able to describe and evaluate the different research methods that psychologists use to investigate human behaviour.

A2 Level
Unit 3: There is a range of topics on this unit. You will study three from the following: Biological rhythms and sleep, Relationships, Aggression.
Unit 4:
Psychopathology – a study into the biological and psychological explanations of schizophrenia.
Psychology in Action – an examination of the contemporary application of psychology to either the media, addictive behaviour or anomalistic psychology.
Psychological Research and Scientific Method – this unit will enable you to develop an understanding of the nature of science and how scientific research is carried out in Psychology.

Assessment
No Coursework
Examination (100%)
Examining Board – AQA.

Special Entry Requirements
Grade C or above in GCSE Additional or Applied Science or in a separate Science subject, or a distinction in a Level 2 Applied Science course.

Prohibited Options
None.

Career and Progression Opportunities
Psychology is now amongst the most popular of university courses. It is increasingly seen as a vital qualification in a whole array of professions.

Teaching methods/Learning experiences
A variety of teaching methods are used ranging from classroom based activities through to visiting speakers and external visits. While AS and A2 Psychology are popular subjects, successful progress depends heavily on developing analytical and evaluative skills along with good essay writing skills. Those wishing to do well are encouraged to organise their independent study time and carry out regular background reading and note taking.

Other Information
Psychology combines well with many if not most other subjects.

This information is correct for September 2012 entry.