Department of Psychology, Unit Catalogue 2006/07

PS30026 Public knowledge: history, philosophy, sociology & psychology of science

Credits: 6

Level: Honours

Semester: 1

Assessment: EX100

Requisites:

In taking this unit you cannot take PS50036

Aims: The course aims to introduce students to key issues raised by historical, philosophical and sociological studies of science and to recent developments in psychological studies of science. Students will develop an informed and critical view of the nature of scientific activity and the problems arising from the differences between scientific and other approaches to problems.
Learning Outcomes:
To enable students to develop an informed and critical view of the nature of scientific activity and the issues arising from differences between scientific and other approaches to problems.
Skills:

* Understands the scientific underpinnings of psychology as a discipline, its historical origins, development and limitations. (T/F)
* Can demonstrate a systematic knowledge of a range of research paradigms, research methods and measurement techniques, including statistical analysis, and be aware of their limitations. (T/F A)
* Can reason scientifically, understand the role of evidence and make critical judgements about arguments in psychology. (T/F A)
* To reflect upon new technology and innovation within psychology and to make decisions regarding legitimacy, reliability and effectiveness. (T/F A)
* Can communicate ideas and research findings both effectively and fluently by written, oral and visual means. (T/F A)
* Can solve problems by clarifying questions, considering alternative solutions and evaluating outcomes. (T/F)
* Can undertake self-directed study and project management in order to meet desired objectives. (T/F)
Content:
Contested views about science; scientists on science; Scientific, Expert and Lay Knowledge; Science and Public Understanding; Public Acceptance of Science and Technology; Science and Psychology; Science and other Modes of Knowledge. The course is lecture-based with considerable directed reading and class discussion. All students read and discuss a number of key authors. Video documentaries are used and there is an associated film series. All students undertake a research project, written up as an assessed essay.

University | Catalogues for 2006/07