Department of Psychology, Unit Catalogue 2010/11 |
PS30018: Mind & social being |
 Credits:
| 6 |
| Level:
| Honours |
| Period: | This unit is available in... |
| Semester 1 |
| Assessment:
| ES 80%, OR 20% |
| Supplementary Assessment: | Like-for-like reassessment (where allowed by programme regulations) |
| Requisites:
| Before taking this unit you must take PS10086 and take PS20107 and take PS20109 |
| Description:
| Aims: To introduce students to the social construction of knowledge in relation to psychological theory and research. Learning Outcomes: * Be able to outline key theories on the nature of the self as a social being. * Be able to analytically apply this understanding to central issues of psychological research. * Be reflexive about their learning and the processes of group work. Skills: * Understands the scientific underpinnings of psychology as a discipline, its historical origins, development and limitations. (T/F A) * Can demonstrate systematic knowledge and critical understanding of a range of influences on psychological functioning, how they are conceptualised across the core areas, and how they interrelate. The core knowledge domains within psychology include (i) research methods, (ii) biological psychology, (iii) cognitive psychology, (iv) individual differences, (v) developmental psychology and (vi) social psychology. In addition to these core areas it is expected that students will gain knowledge of conceptual and historical perspectives in psychology. (T/F A) * Has detailed knowledge of several specialised areas and/or applications, some of which are at the cutting edge of research in the discipline. (T/F A) * Can reason scientifically, understand the role of evidence and make critical judgements about arguments in psychology. (T/F A) * Can adopt multiple perspectives and systematically analyse the relationships between them. (T/F A) * To reflect upon new technology and innovation within psychology and to make decisions regarding legitimacy, reliability and effectiveness. (T/F A) * To effectively and efficiently apply principles of psychological analysis within a variety of environments. (T/F A) * To develop sensitivity to the values and interests of others. (T/F A) * Can communicate ideas and research findings both effectively and fluently by written, oral and visual means. (T/F A) * Is computer literate and is confident in using word processing, database and statistical software. (T/F A) * Can solve problems by clarifying questions, considering alternative solutions and evaluating outcomes. (T/F A) * Is sensitive to and can react appropriately to contextual and interpersonal factors in groups and teams. (T/F A) * Can undertake self-directed study and project management in order to meet desired objectives. (T/F A) * Is able to take charge of their own learning, and can reflect and evaluate personal strengths and weaknesses for the purposes of future learning. (T/F A) Content: The nature of the self as a social being. The importance, in particular, placed on discourse (language, argument) and the social construction of reality, self, gender, identity, the body and emotion in relation to discursive theory. The unit will begin with introductory lectures, and will be followed by student-led presentations and seminars on selected topics. |