Introduction to Applied Psychology
Module summary
Module code: PSYC1056
Level: 4
Credits: 30
School: Education, Health and Human Sci
Department: Human Sciences
Module Coordinator(s): Robert Willson
Specification
Pre and co requisites
None.
Aims
This module aims to provide the student a broad introduction to the application of psychology to life and work outside the university and to give clear guidance to those who might be interested in a career in applied psychology, particularly the recognised professional areas of practice. The module will also introduce students to the problems of relating theory and practice in these areas. It will also provide the opportunity to enhance employability by encouraging students to identify their fields of interest in psychology so that they are able to make informed choices regarding the degree options throughout the module.
Learning outcomes
On successful completion of this module a student will be able to:
1 Demonstrate awareness of the broad range of social, economic and political activity to which psychology is making important contributions.
2 Demonstrate awareness of many psychologists who have made major contributions in the applied field.
3 Show a basic understanding of the applications of psychology to specific areas of work and life and understand some of the many problems involved.
4 Have identified areas of psychology in which they are personally interested and to begin to relate this to future career opportunities.
5 Demonstrate a basic knowledge of the various career paths and options available to graduate psychologists in the UK and other EU countries.
6 Show enhanced and developed academic skills and confidence in their ability to learn.
Indicative content
Overview of the main areas of applied psychology, formal and alternative training paths for graduate psychologists, psychology applied to law, medicine and health, education, industry, leisure and sport community, environment, government, religion; issues related to applied psychology –, stress, mental disorder, consciousness and death, assessment, media, decision-making, diagnosis, , gender, contemporary issues as they arise during the module; focus is on psychology and psychologists, the need for interdisciplinary and cross cultural focus in applied psychology.
Teaching and learning activity
Lectures, seminars, group discussions and self-study supported by library facilities, electronic databases and materials posted in the module shell on the online learning platform.
Assessment
Essay - 30%
LO - 3,4,5,6
Numeric grading
Pass mark - 40%
1200 words.
End of term 1 essay based on exploring a particular career path within applied psychology.
Academic Poster + summary and rationale - 30%
LO - 1,2,3,4,6
Numerical grading
Pass mark - 40%
250 words (summary).
Academic Poster based on an influential contributor to Applied Psychology. Students must supply a brief summary of content prior to final submission.
Final Essay - 40%
LO - 1,2,3,4,5,6
Numerical grading
Pass mark - 40%
1500 words
An essay exploring how psychology can be applied in a broader non-academic context.
Nature of FORMATIVE assessment supporting student learning:
Tutor feedback on individual written assessments, group feedback in seminars.