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Department of Psychology, Unit Catalogue 2005/06

PS10086: Mind and behaviour

Credits: 12
Level: Certificate
Academic Year
Assessment: OT100
Requisites:
Aims:
* To introduce students to basic concepts and current themes and debates in psychology.
* To familiarise students with some classic psychological studies.
* To provide an understanding of the key concepts necessary for the study of psychology.
Learning Outcomes:
* Appreciate the scientific underpinnings of psychology as a discipline, its historical origins, development and limitations
* Recognise the inherent variability and diversity of psychological functioning and its significance.
* Demonstrate systematic knowledge and critical understanding of a range of influences on psychological functioning
* Demonstrate knowledge of biological psychology
* Demonstrate knowledge of cognitive psychology
* Demonstrate knowledge of individual differences
* Demonstrate knowledge of developmental psychology
* Demonstrate knowledge of psychology
Skills:
* Understands the scientific underpinnings of psychology as a discipline, its historical origins, development and limitations. (T/F)
* Recognises the inherent variability and diversity of psychological functioning and its significance. (T/F)
* 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 taught within this unit are (i) biological psychology, (ii) cognitive psychology, (iii) individual differences, (iv) developmental psychology and (v) social psychology. (T/F A)
Content:
The course content will cover five main areas:
* Biological psychology: the biological basis of behaviour, motivation and homeostasis, states of awareness and emotion, stress and coping.
* Cognitive Psychology: attention, visual perception, learning, memory, thinking and language.
* Individual differences: intelligence and personality.
* Developmental psychology: cognitive development, social development, attachment and friendships.
* Social Psychology: group processes, intergroup processes, social behaviour and relationships

PS10087: Psychology laboratory 1

Credits: 12
Level: Certificate
Academic Year
Assessment: PR100
Requisites:
While taking this unit you must take PS10088
Aims: To provide students with the basic skills required for conducting experimental and practical work in psychology.
Learning Outcomes:
* Be able to plan and conduct a psychology experiment
* Be familiar with how some key classical studies in psychology were conducted
* Be familiar with the basic principles of research design and sampling
* Be able to consider ethical issues in research
* Be able to write a psychology lab report.
Skills:
* To have detailed knowledge of several specialised areas and/or applications, some of which are at the cutting edge of research in the discipline. (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)
* Can adopt multiple perspectives and systematically analyse the relationships between them. (T/F A)
* Can detect meaningful patterns in behaviour and experience and evaluate their significance. (T/F A)
* Can pose, operationalise and critically evaluate research questions. (T/F A)
* Can demonstrate substantial competence in research skills through practical activities. (T/F A)
* Can demonstrate competence in a range of qualitative research methods (T/F A)
* Can competently initiate, design, conduct and report an empirically-based research project under appropriate supervision, and can recognise its theoretical, practical and methodological implications and limitations. (T/F A)
* Is aware of the ethical context of psychology as a discipline and can demonstrate this in relation to personal study, particularly with regard to the research project. (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)
* 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 A)
* Is sensitive to and can react appropriately to contextual and interpersonal factors in groups and teams. (T/F)
* Can undertake self-directed study and project management in order to meet desired objectives. (T/F)
* 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).
Content:
Students will participate in supervised practical work using appropriate equipment and techniques. They will conduct and analyse experimental and practical studies on a range of psychological topics.

PS10088: Quantitative methods 1

Credits: 6
Level: Certificate
Semester: 2
Assessment: CW100
Requisites:
While taking this unit you must take PS10087
Aims: To develop students'competence in the design, conduct, analysis and reporting of experimental and practical work in psychology.
Learning Outcomes:
* Be able to demonstrate the principles for analysing data from experiments
* Be able to perform a range of statistical analyses appropriately and interpret statistical material.
Skills:
* To understand 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)
* Can adopt multiple perspectives and systematically analyse the relationships between them. (T/F)
* Can pose, operationalise and critically evaluate research questions.
* Can demonstrate substantial competence in research skills through practical activities. (T/F)
* Can reason statistically and use a range of statistical methods with confidence. (T/F A)
* Can comprehend and use numerical, statistical and other forms of data, particularly in the context of presenting and analysing complex data sets. (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)
* Can undertake self-directed study and project management in order to meet desired objectives. (T/F)
* 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).
Content:
Students will have instruction in statistical methods including correlation, regression, ANOVA, and non-parametric statistics, and will apply these in the analysis of class data, and show their understanding of their use and interpretation.

PS10089: Controversies in Psychology

Credits: 6
Level: Certificate
Semester: 2
Assessment: ES100
Requisites:
While taking this unit you must take PS10086
Aims:
* To introduce students to basic concepts and current debates in psychology.
* To familiarise students with some classic psychological studies.
Learning Outcomes:
* Present a structured and coherent argument
* Be able to communicate the results of their work by written and oral means.
* Be able to evaluate different sides of an argument and provide synthesis.
Skills:
* Understands the scientific underpinnings of psychology as a discipline, its historical origins, development and limitations. (T/F)
* Recognises the inherent variability and diversity of psychological functioning and its significance. (T/F)
* 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)
* Can reason scientifically, understand the role of evidence and make critical judgements about arguments in psychology. (T/F A)
* Can communicate ideas and research findings both effectively and fluently by written, oral and visual means. (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 course will cover controversial issues in psychology. The following are a list of possible issues that will be covered.
* Are humans naturally violent?
* Should animal research be part of psychological research?
* Do adults repress memories of childhood sexual abuse?
* Is media violence harmful to children?
* Does the internet have psychological benefits?

PS20028: Psychology placement

Credits: 60
Level: Intermediate
Academic Year
Assessment: RT100
Requisites:

Aims & Learning Objectives:
To provide the experience of work in a professional psychology context, to facilitate the acquisition and practice of transferable professional research skills. Students will develop planning skills, communication skills, problem-solving skills, experience group work and response to leadership, learn how to make appropriate decisions. They will have the opportunity to apply psychological knowledge acquired in the first two years of the programme. They will normally have the opportunity to undertake an independent research study under supervision, which will form the basis of their dissertation work in the final year.
Content:
Students will spend 30 weeks attached to an approved supervisor ina professional psychology field. The placement is a pass/ fail assessment based on completion of:
1. A 1500 word report of progress due after 10 weeks - 15%
2. A description of the placement for the file - 15%
3. A research proposal and ethical statement - 20%
4. A final report of 2500 words - 50%.

PS20082: Individuals at work

Credits: 6
Level: Intermediate
Semester: 2
Assessment: EX100
Requisites:
Before taking this unit you must take PS10001 and take PS10057 and take PS10058
Aims:
* To provide students with an introduction to the role that psychological factors play in work-related behaviours.
* To cover core topics such as occupational health, motivation and performance, selection and assessment, training, and organisational change.
* To introduce students to basic psychological theories and concepts of individual differences such as personality, intelligence and motivation. Benchmark statements Personality and individual differences (e.g. abnormal and normal personality), psychological testing, intelligence, cognitive style, emotion, motivation and mood.
Learning Outcomes:
On completion of the unit the students will:
* Be aware of the ways in which psychological factors can affect a range of work-related behaviours.
* Be able to demonstrate an understanding of how psychologists conduct research in organisations.
* Be familiar with the main theories of individual differences as applied ot the workplace e.g. personality, intelligence, motivation.
* Be aware of major debates and controversies in occupational psychology e.g. the practitioner-academic divide.
* Be able to utilise their knowledge to discuss issues in organisational psychology.
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 knoweldge 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 weakness for the purposes of future learning. (T/F/A)
Content:
1. Organisational analysis: this topic would cover the structure of organisations, with an emphasis on different levels of assessment e.g. individual, group, organisational. It will also introduce the notions of organisational change within organisations. Finally, it will provide a general introduction to core concepts in individual differences, such as personlaity, motivation and intelligence.
2. Work motivation: this topic would introduce basic theories of motivation (both from a biological and a psychological background) and consider whether they can be applied to a work environment. This topic will also introduce basic work motivation theories (e.g. needs, expectancy), and consider issues of measurement and assessment.
3. Employee selection and assessment: this section will introduce students to different methods of human resource selection and assessment (e.g. interview, assessment centres) and consider issues of reliability and validity. This topic will also include a basic introduction to psychometrics within the context of personality, intelligence and ability testing. Finally, appraisal systems will be covered in this section.
4. Training and development at work: this topic will consider core issues in training such as needs assessment, the learning environment and the transfer of knowledge to the work place. Emphasis will be placed on the evaluation of training packages, and again issues of reliability and validity will be covered.
5. Occupational health: This section will examine the role of emotions and well-being at work. It will consider the impact that negative and positive emotions have on work, and work-related issues such as productivity and performance, as well as the impact work can have on health-related issues such as mental and physical ill health. It will also consider what can be done to improve well-being at work, such as through work redesign and stress management interventions.

PS20090: Cognitive psychology and biological psychology

Credits: 12
Level: Intermediate
Academic Year
Assessment: EX100
Requisites:
Before taking this unit you must take PS10086
Aims:
* To familiarise students with current methodological and theoretical issues in cognitive psychology.
* To equip students with an understanding of the principles of cognitive processes.
* To familiarise students with methodological issues in the study of cognition.
* To develop a biopsychological level description of human behaviour. To develop an understanding of the theoretical issues surrounding the study of biopsychology. To critically evaluate the role of historical issues and the methods employed to establish biological models of human behaviour.
Learning Outcomes:
* Be familiar with the main theories and debates in cognitive psychology.
* Be aware of the methods used in research in cognition.
* Be able to utilise concepts and research findings in discussion of cognitive processes
* Be familiar with the main theories and debates in biological psychology.
* Be aware of the methods used in research in biological psychology.
* Be able to utilise concepts and research findings in discussion of biological psychology
Skills:
* Understands the scientific underpinnings of psychology as a discipline, its historical origins, development and limitations. (T/F A)
* Recognises the inherent variability and diversity of psychological functioning and its significance. (T/F)
* 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 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)
* Can reason statistically and use a range of statistical methods with confidence. (T/F)
* Is computer literate and is confident in using word processing, database and statistical software. (T/F)
* 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)
Content:
Information processing, problem-solving, reasoning, perception and the representation of knowledge. Consciousness, monitoring and attention. How we use tools and their relationship to thinking. Models of mind-brain relations. Problem solving. Experts and novices. Nervous system structure and function; Methods in modern biopsychology; Biopsychological assessment; Structure and functions of the brain; Recovery and rehabilitation; Endocrine System; Immune System.

PS20091: Social and developmental psychology

Credits: 12
Level: Intermediate
Academic Year
Assessment: EX100
Requisites:
Before taking this unit you must take PS10086
Aims: To enable students to understand the relationship between individual, social and cultural psychological processes. To familiarise students with research on the individual in the social context. To provide understanding of the major theoretical debates and recent developments in social psychology. To introduce students to human development from birth to old age. To equip students with knowledge of the major theories and debates in developmental psychology. To familiarise students with the methodologies of developmental psychology.
Learning Outcomes:
* Be aware of key studies in social psychology.
* Be familiar with how psychologists approach the student of communication and the social construction of meaning.
* Understand the main theoretical debates about the relationship between the individual and the social and cultural context.
* To demonstrate an understanding of how psychologists conduct research on human development.
* Be familiar with the main theories of human development.
* Be aware of major debates and controversies in human development theory and research.
* Be able to utilise their knowledge to discuss issues in human development.
Skills:
* 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)
* 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)
* 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)
* Is sensitive to and can react appropriately to contextual and interpersonal factors in groups and teams. (T/F)
* Can undertake self-directed study and project management in order to meet desired objectives. (T/F)
* 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)
Content:
Key issues in theory of human development. How the 'well-equipped stranger' becomes the competent adult. Stages and developmental shifts. The development of language. The role of culture in human development. The development of self. Life crises and transitions. Language as dialogue and social negotiation. Rhetoric and discourse: how we persuade, argue, negotiate and interpret. Construction of meaning. The role of metaphor and narrative. Communication processes. Effective and ineffective communication. The relationships between individual schemas, representations and lay theories, and social and cultural repertoires.

PS20092: Research methods and design

Credits: 12
Level: Intermediate
Academic Year
Assessment: PR100
Requisites:
Before taking this unit you must take PS10087 and take PS10088
Aims: To provide students with an understanding and competence in qualitative and quantitative methods, and the skills to design, conduct and analyse studies using appropriate methodology.
Learning Outcomes:
* Be able to explain, design and critically evaluate key quantitative and qualitative methods in psychological research
* Be able to assess practical issues of research design and the interpretation of data
* Be able to conduct and analyse a study using questionnaires
* Be able to conduct a research interview
* Be familiar with key methods of qualitative data analysis and know how to apply them.
Skills:
* Understand 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 adopt multiple perspectives and systematically analyse the relationships between them. (T/F)
* Can detect meaningful patterns in behaviour and experience and evaluate their significance. (T/F/ A)
* Can pose, operationalise and critically evaluate research questions. (T/F A)
* Can demonstrate substantial competence in research skills through practical activities. (T/F A)
* Can demonstrate competence in a range of qualitative research methods (T/F A)
* Can competently initiate, design, conduct and report an empirically-based research project under appropriate supervision, and can recognise its theoretical, practical and methodological implications and limitations. (T/F A)
* Is aware of the ethical context of psychology as a discipline and can demonstrate this in relation to personal study, particularly with regard to the research project. (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)
* Can solve problems by clarifying questions, considering alternative solutions and evaluating outcomes. (T/F)
* Is sensitive to and can react appropriately to contextual and interpersonal factors in groups and teams. (T/F)
* Can undertake self-directed study and project management in order to meet desired objectives. (T/F)
* 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)
Content:
In semester 1, students will engage in practical workshops in questionnaire design, interview techniques, focus groups, observation and in qualitative data analysis such as discourse analysis, grounded theory, narrative and case studies.
In semester 2, students will design, conduct, analyse and report an independent study, working in small groups.

PS20093: Quantitative methods 2

Credits: 6
Level: Intermediate
Semester: 1
Assessment: CW100
Requisites:
Before taking this unit you must take PS10087 and take PS10088
Aims: To provide students with an understanding and competence in qualitative and quantitative methods and statistics, and the skills to design, conduct and analyse studies using appropriate methodology.
Learning Outcomes:
* Be able to explain, design and critically evaluate quantitative methods in psychological research
* Be able to use more advanced statistics and understand their interpretation
* Be familiar with key methods of quantitative data analysis and know how to apply them.
Skills:
* Understand 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 detect meaningful patterns in behaviour and experience and evaluate their significance. (T/F/ A)
* Can pose, operationalise and critically evaluate research questions. (T/F A)
* Can demonstrate substantial competence in research skills through practical activities. (T/F A)
* Can comprehend and use numerical, statistical and other forms of data, particularly in the context of presenting and analysing complex data sets. (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)
Content:
They will acquire appropriate skills in the use and interpretation of advanced statistics such as factor analysis, cluster analysis, advanced regression techniques and MANOVA.

PS30014: History of psychology

Credits: 6
Level: Honours
Semester: 1
Assessment: EX100
Requisites:
Before taking this unit you must take PS10086 or take PS20090 or take PS20091
Aims: To equip the student with an understanding of the History of Psychology and the relationship between a historical perspective and how a field is conceptualised.
Learning Outcomes:
* Understand the development of theory.
* Understand the development of methodology.
* Be familiar with the development of critiques.
* Be aware of the relationship between the development of psychology and related fields.
* Be aware of the role of social and historical context in historical accounts and in the acceptance of new ideas.
Skills:
* Understands the scientific underpinnings of psychology as a discipline, its historical origins, development and limitations. (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)
* 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 A)
* Is sensitive to and can react appropriately to contextual and interpersonal factors in groups and teams. (T/F)
* Can undertake self-directed study and project management in order to meet desired objectives. (T/F)
* 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)
Content:
The function that historical perspective plays in how we think about a field. Key ideas in the history of psychology; their context and roots. How and why such ideas waxed and waned. The predominant and recurrent themes in the history of psychology. Key individuals in psychology, and how their intellectual lives illuminate how ideas are embedded in cultural and historical context.

PS30015: Economic & political psychology

Credits: 6
Level: Honours
Semester: 1
Assessment: EX100
Requisites:
Before taking this unit you must take PS10086 or take PS20090 or take PS20091

Aims & Learning Objectives:
To introduce students to the psychological organisation of social, political, economic and ethical beliefs. After completing the unit the students will:
* Be familiar with the theoretical models around the organisation of beliefs.
* Be aware of models of development and aetiology of beliefs.
* Understand how implicit models of psychological processes underpin commonsense conceptions of rationality and ethics.
* Be aware of the tensions between 'discourse' and 'ideology' models of explanation.
* Appreciate the problematic nature of links between beliefs and action.
Content:
Psychological models of ideology in the organisation of beliefs. Mainstream and emergent political-social beliefs -feminism, Green politics. Lay beliefs, e.g., about unemployment, poverty, ethics. Concepts of fairness and equity. Moral development. Elite beliefs - what constitutes 'legitimation'? Political propaganda and rhetoric. Social movements, social change and intergroup relations.

PS30016: Health psychology

Credits: 6
Level: Honours
Semester: 1
Assessment: EX100
Requisites:
Before taking this unit you must take PS10086 or take PS20090 or take PS20091
Aims: To introduce students to concepts, theory, methods and applications of health psychology, using the concepts of social psychology and psychobiology.
Learning Outcomes:
* Understand how concepts in health can be assessed.
* Understand the concepts around what it means to be healthy, well and have good quality of life.
* Know about the range of methods appropriate to measuring and evaluating outcomes in health psychology.
* Appreciate some of the key interventions designed by health psychologists for use in clinical and non-clinical settings, in chronic disease.
* Be able to set the psychology of health within a broad multidisciplinary context in the health and social sciences.
* Be able to appraise the dynamics of organising psychological care within the health care system.
Skills:
* Recognises the inherent variability and diversity of psychological functioning and its significance. (T/F A)
* Can demonstrate systematic knowledge and critical understanding of a range of influences on psychological functioning and how they interrelate. In addition 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)
* Can detect meaningful patterns in behaviour and experience and evaluate their significance. (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)
* 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 A)
* Is sensitive to and can react appropriately to contextual and interpersonal factors in groups and teams. (T/F)
* Can undertake self-directed study and project management in order to meet desired objectives. (T/F)
* 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)
Content:
Health psychology interventions for major chronic diseases e.g. cardiovascular, pain. An appraisal of the process of health reporting and health care from the detection of symptoms, decision to consult, through the consultation to adherence to treatment. An appreciation of key concepts; stress, uncertainty, social support. The impact of care. Health promotion and education practices covering smoking, sex, disability, exercise, diet, etc.

PS30017: Controversies in cognition

Credits: 6
Level: Honours
Semester: 2
Assessment: CW75OR25
Requisites:
Before taking this unit you must take PS10086 and take PS20090
Aims: To equip the student with an understanding of current issues and controversies in psychology.
Learning Outcomes:
* Understand what is meant by 'controversy'.
* Be familiar with current debates and their implications for the development of theory and methodology.
* Be able to present a critical perspective on the issues.
* Be able to evaluate the relevant perspectives in the controversies.
Skills:
* Understands the scientific underpinnings of psychology as a discipline, its historical origins, development and limitations. (T/F A).
* Recognises the inherent variability and diversity of psychological functioning and its significance. (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)
* Can detect meaningful patterns in behaviour and experience and evaluate their significance. (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 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:
Current debates for example in: problems of consciousness, the interface between cognitive psychology, philosophy and neuroscience, connectionist theory and its implications, the rise of evolutionary psychology, the role of culture in human development.

PS30018: Mind & social being

Credits: 6
Level: Honours
Semester: 1
Assessment: CW100
Requisites:
Before taking this unit you must take PS10086 and take PS20091
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.

PS30019: Artificial minds: Minds, machines & persons

Credits: 6
Level: Honours
Semester: 1
Assessment: ES80OR20
Requisites:
Before taking this unit you must take PS10086 and take PS20090
Aims: To introduce some recent research in the field of computer-based modelling and simulation of human activities which require the intelligent use of knowledge, otherwise known as Artificial Intelligence. We will approach machine intelligence through two complementary questions: could human intelligence be simulated, equalled or even exceeded by machines? Can the machine-metaphor still help us understand human cognitive and social processes?
Learning Outcomes:
Students will understand the difference between traditional AI (based on knowledge engineering) and more recent approaches (based on evolutionary and other biological processes) and the implications of each to larger questions concerning the nature of intelligence and of scientific approaches to the replication of complex attributes such as intelligence. Students will become familiar with key authors and texts, and will learn to evaluate claims about computer programs and simulations.
Skills:
* Understands the scientific underpinnings of psychology as a discipline, its historical origins, development and limitations. (T/F A)
* Recognises the inherent variability and diversity of psychological functioning and its significance. (T/F)
* 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)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)
* Can adopt multiple perspectives and systematically analyse the relationships between them. (T/F A)
* Can detect meaningful patterns in behaviour and experience and evaluate their significance. (T/F)
* Can pose, operationalise and critically evaluate research questions. (T/F A)
* Can demonstrate substantial competence in research skills through practical activities. (T/F)
* To reflect upon new technology and innovation within psychology and to make decisions regarding legitimacy, reliability and effectiveness. (T/F)
* Can communicate ideas and research findings both effectively and fluently by written, oral and visual means. (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)
Content:
Machine-metaphors for human thinking and reasoning now compete with evolutionary biology and neurology for influence in both psychological and sociological approaches to human behaviour. The course will provide historical background, will introduce some of the main approaches and research projects in the field , and will set out two main areas of debate: criticisms made by AI researchers about rival approaches, and arguments of philosophers, sociologists and psychologists about the attempt to simulate intelligence. MSc/Diploma students will undertake research for an additional essay on the impact of AI research on human/machine boundaries.

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

Credits: 6
Level: Honours
Semester: 1
Assessment: ES100
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.

PS30059: The cultures of belief 1

Credits: 3
Level: Honours
Semester: 2
Assessment: ES100
Requisites:
While taking this unit you must take PS30060 and in taking this unit you cannot take PS50046
Aims: This unit provides an historical exposition of the changing relationship between major religious traditions and western science, and a critical discussion of theses about the ways in which religion and science interact.
Learning Outcomes:
Students will be expected to demonstrate, through written assignments and seminar discussion, that they have mastered the arguments of at least two main authors or schools and can make a critical appraisal of these arguments.
Skills:
* Recognises the inherent variability and diversity of psychological functioning and its significance. (T/F A)
* Can competently initiate, design, conduct and report an empirically-based research project under appropriate supervision, and can recognise its theoretical, practical and methodological implications and limitations. (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)
* 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)
Content:
Attention will be given to historical and philosophical views of the nature of religion and of science, theses about their interaction (e.g., conflict, independence, interdependence); each of the main theses will be examined in the light of recent historical and critical studies. The application by popular science writers of core scientific theories to religious and metaphysical themes is also explored.

PS30060: Science & religion

Credits: 3
Level: Honours
Semester: 2
Assessment: ES100
Requisites:
While taking this unit you must take PS30059 and in taking this unit you cannot take PS50047
Aims: This unit examines the roles of religious and scientific traditions in western culture with particular reference to Christian theology, traditions and religious practices, in order to provide (1) an deeper understanding of the cultural context of the ways in which Christianity and western science interact and (2) an analytical basis to evaluate claims about the implications of religious beliefs and practices for science and of scientific developments for Christianity.
Learning Outcomes:
Students will be expected to demonstrate, through written assignments and seminar discussion, that they have mastered the arguments of at least two main authors or schools and can make a critical appraisal of these arguments.
Skills:
* 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 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)
Content:
Studies of the cultural context of historical and philosophical views of the nature of religion and of science; critical analysis of theses about their interaction; examination and appraisal of historical and contemporary claims about the implications of science for religions and of religion for science; implications for Public Understanding of Science, esp. the place of science in post-modern culture.Students will be expected to demonstrate through seminar discussion, an assessed oral presentation and an essay that they have mastered the arguments of the main authors or protagonists and can make a critical appraisal of their arguments.

PS30073: Alternative models in psychology

Credits: 6
Level: Honours
Semester: 2
Assessment: CW100
Requisites:
Before taking this unit you must take PS10086 and take PS20090 and take PS20092 and take PS20093
Aims: To introduce students to the theory and practice of non-linear modelling techniques and their applications in psychology.
Learning Outcomes:
Be familiar with the limitations of linear modelling techniques; understand the theory behind various non-linear alternatives; be able to use these alternative computational modelling techniques to analyse data sets.
Skills:
1. Understands the scientific underpinnings of psychology as a discipline, its historical origins, development and limitations. (T/F/A)
2. Recognises the inherent variability and diversity of psychological functioning and its significance. (F)
3. 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)
4. 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)
5. 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)
6. Can reason scientifically, understand the role of evidence and make critical judgements about arguments in psychology. (F)
7. Can adopt multiple perspectives and systematically analyse the relationships between them. (F)
8. Can detect meaningful patterns in behaviour and experience and evaluate their significance. (T/F/A)
9. Can pose, operationalise and critically evaluate research questions. (F)
10. Can demonstrate substantial competence in research skills through practical activities. (T/F/A)
11. Can reason statistically and use a range of statistical methods with confidence. (T/F/A)
12. To reflect upon new technology and innovation within psychology and to make decisions regarding legitimacy, reliability and effectiveness. (F)
Content:
The theory of linear modelling; critique of linear modelling; neural network modelling; other forms of model such as fuzzy logic modelling; chaos theory and complexity; state-space models; application of these modelling techniques to several aspects of psychology involving decision making and intention.

PS30076: Psychology project 1

Credits: 6
Level: Honours
Semester: 1
Assessment:
Requisites:

Aims & Learning Objectives:
To plan, execute and report a piece of original empirical research in psychology After completing the units the student will:
* Be able to conduct an individual piece of psychological research
* Be able to reflect on the strengths and limitations of the work and skills involved
* Be able to analyse data and to recognise the strengths and limitations of the methods used.
* Be able to write a 12,000 word dissertation
* Be able to present effectively an oral report of ongoing research.
Content:
The dissertation is conducted over two semesters. At the end of semester 1, the assessment is an oral presentation of work to date. At the end of semester 2, the assessed work is the complete 12,000 word report. Students are required to design the project, carry out data collection and analysis, and write a critical discussion.

PS30077: Psychology project 2

Credits: 12
Level: Honours
Semester: 2
Assessment:
Requisites:
Before taking this unit you must take PS30076

Aims & Learning Objectives:
To plan, execute and report a piece of original empirical research in psychology After completing the units the student will:
* Be able to conduct an individual piece of psychological research
* Be able to reflect on the strengths and limitations of the work and skills involved
* Be able to analyse data and to recognise the strengths and limitations of the methods used.
* Be able to write a 12,000 word dissertation
* Be able to present effectively an oral report of ongoing research.
Content:
The dissertation is conducted over two semesters. At the end of semester 1, the assessment is an oral presentation of work to date. At the end of semester 2, the assessed work is the complete 12,000 word report. Students are required to design the project, carry out data collection and analysis, and write a critical discussion.

PS30083: Stress, immunity & health

Credits: 6
Level: Honours
Semester: 1
Assessment: EX100
Requisites:
Before taking this unit you must take PS10086 and take PS20090
Aims: This unit will examine the relationships between psychological and biological processes in health and illness. A particular focus will be given to Psychoneuroimmunology (PNI), the study of inter-relationships between psychosocial processes such as stress, and functioning of the nervous, endocrine and immune systems. Many important and intriguing findings have linked psychological stress with disease onset and progression, and with the physiological mediators of such links. Underpinning much of this research is the traditional psychological paradigm of Pavlovian conditioning with well documented evidence for conditioned immunosuppression. Hence this module offers the student an opportunity to study a current and highly topical area of health psychology which is grounded in sound psychological theory.
Aim 1. To provide students with the opportunity to acquire a general knowledge of current research involving the inter-relationships between stress processes and physiological functioning as related to health and illness.
Aim 2. To provide students with the opportunity to develop and explore skills and confidence in using relevant bibliographic databases and other IT resources (e.g. MEDLINE, PSYCHINFO, etc.) for the access and retrieval of psychological and medical literature.
Aim 3. To provide students with the opportunity to develop critical and analytical skills in dealing with their own and othes' theoretical ideas.
Learning Outcomes:
On completion of the unit the students will:
* Be able to demonstrate a general knowledge of and insight into the relationships between stress and physiological functioning in health and illness.
* Be able to use bibliographic databases and other IT resources to access relevant literature and information.
* Have developed i) Critical thinking skills; ii) Skills in aspects of oral communication, presentation, debating, and negotiation; iii) Skills in aspects of oral communication, presentation, debating, and negotiation.
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 meed 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 purpose of future learning. (T/F A)
Content:
The unit will be organised around 12 two-hour lecture-seminars exploring relationships between stress and aspects of health and illness, focusing particularly on the field of Psychoneuroimmunology. The lecture-seminars will provide a sound knowledge of the field. Following an introduction to the physiological systems of the body, their inter-relationships, and the field of PNI, students will explore coping resources and psychosocial interventions for dealing with stress through the study of specific immune related diseases. Current conceptual issues in this emerging disciplinary field will be discussed throughout the course. Below is a brief course outline:
* Week 1: Introduction to the physiological systems of the body and their inter-relationships; nervous, immune, endocrine, respiratory, digestive, cardiovascular, and reproductive system.
* Week 2: Introduction to PNI: development of the field; definitions and concepts; methods of assessment in PNI research.
* Week 3: The stress response; immune and endocrine parameters of acute and chronic stress. Models of stress - homeostasis and allostatic load.
* Week 4: Infectious illness.
* Week 5: Autoimmune disease.
* Week 6: Cancer - etiology and progression.
* Week 7: Interventions to reduce stress.
* Week 8: Spirituality, immune function and health.
* Week 9: Post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and hippocampal damage.
* Week 10: Pregnancy and developmental PNI.
* Week 11: The role of health behaviours in PNI research.
* Week 12: Presentation session - group presentations of a relevant and recent research paper.

PS30084: Understanding gender relations

Credits: 6
Level: Honours
Semester: 2
Assessment: ES100
Requisites:
Before taking this unit you must take PS10086 and take PS20091
Aims:
* To acquaint students with key theoretical and empirical research within mainstream social psychological approaches to the study of gender relations;
* To develop students' knowledge of the main feminist perspectives on gender relations and their relevance for social psychology;
* To promote an understanding of the main areas of theoretical and empirical research within critical social psychology which draw on feminist approaches;
* To encourage students to apply a range of mainstream, feminist and critical social psychological approaches to specific issues of relevance to gender relations;
* To develop students' understanding of the relationship between social relations around gender and class, ethnicity and sexuality.
Learning Outcomes:
After successful completion of this course students should be able to:
* Describe and discuss the value of mainstream social psychological approaches to the study of gender relations, including research on the psychology of sex differences, theories of gender-role socialisation and Social Identity Theory.
* Critically evaluate various feminist perspectives with reference to their relevance for social psychological research, including liberal, Marxist, radical, psychoanalytic and Black feminist approaches.
* Compare and contrast the value of mainstream, feminist and critical social psychological approaches to the study of gender relations.
* Evaluate the application of mainstream, feminist and critical social psychological approaches to specific issues of relevance for gender relations.
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 applictaions, 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 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)
* 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)
* Can undertake self-directed study and project management in order to meet desired objectives. (T/F)
* 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)
Content:
The course will cover:
(1) Mainstream social psychology approaches to gender, including psychology of sex differences research, gender stereotyping and sex-role socialisation theory, social identity theory and evolutionary approaches;
(2) Feminist approaches, including Liberal, Marxist and Radical feminist approaches, psychoanalytic theory and Black feminism; and
(3) Critical social psychology approaches, including research on identity and subjectivity, embodiment, language and discourse, and representations.
In the seminar section of the classes, students will facilitate discussion on the following topics: gender and mental health; family life; waged and unwaged work; men and masculinities; gender and language; rape and sexual violence; body image and eating disorders; romance and sexuality.

PS30085: Cognitive neuropsychology

Credits: 6
Level: Honours
Semester: 2
Assessment: ES80OR20
Requisites:
Before taking this unit you must take PS10086 and take PS20090
Aims: This unit will examine how models of normal brain function can be informed through an analysis of the different ways in which those functions are impaired following brain injury. The pattern of intact and impaired processes suggest hypotheses concerning the existence of separate cognitive subsystems or modules responsible for different cognitive operations. Cognitive neuropsychology forms one branch of the modern field of cognitive neuroscience which aims to relate brain and cognition in a mechanistic way. In addition to brain injured patients, this course will also look at how the theoretical methods employed in cognitive neuropsychology have also helped to provide a framework for understanding certain psychological disorders, such as schizophrenia.
Aim 1. To provide students with a solid grounding in the methods used by neuropsychologists to assess patients and to use these findings to inform normal brain function.
Aim 2. To provide students with the opportunity to develop and explore skills and confidence in using relevant bibliographic databases and other IT resources (e.g. MEDLINE, PSYCHINFO, etc.) for the access and retrieval of psychological and medical literature.
Aim 3. To provide students with the opportunity to develop critical and analytical skills in dealing with their own and others' theoretical ideas.
Learning Outcomes:
On completion of the unit the students will be able to:
(i) Critically evaluate how cognitive neuropsychology informs normal brain function.
(ii) Develop a critical analysis of theoretical positions in neuropsychology
(iii) Critically understand the role of research methods in neuropsychology
(iiii) will have developed a). Critical thinking skills; and b). Skills in aspects of oral communication, presentation, debating, and negotiation.
Skills:
Understands the scientific underpinnings of psychology as a discipline, its historical origins, development and limitations. (T/F) 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) 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) To effectively and efficiently apply principles of psychological analysis within a variety of environments. (T/F) To develop sensitivity to the values and interests of others. (T/F) 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) 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) 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)
Content:
The unit is organised in 2 parts. The first part of the course comprises 6 two-hour lecture-seminars exploring key questions in human cognitive neuropsychology. These seminars will provide students with a sound knowledge of the field. Following an introduction to the methods used in this field, students will explore well-established deficits that have been reported in the areas of object recognition, memory, language and attention and the implications these impairments have for our understanding of normal processing. They will also learn how cognitive neuropsychological approaches can provide a theoretical framework for understanding more complex disorders such as schizophrenia. In the second part of the course, students will be asked to present neuropsychological case studies and to explain how the case has informed an aspect of normal brain function. They will subsequently be asked to write up their presentations in essay format which, together with their presentation, will form the basis of their marks. Below is a brief course outline;
Week 1. Introduction to cognitive neuropsychology: the relevance of associations and dissociations, the role of case studies, issues relating to modularity of the mind
Week 2. Disorders of perception: the agnosias
Week 3. Disorders of attention and awareness
Week 4. Disorders of language: aphasias, dyslexia, agraphia
Week 5. Disorders of memory: the amnesias
Week 6. Disorders of thought: cognitive neuropsychology of schizophrenia
Weeks 7-12 Students will present neuropsychological case studies.

PS30094: Psychology dissertation

Credits: 18
Level: Honours
Academic Year
Assessment: DS80OR20
Requisites:
Aims: To plan, execute and report a piece of original empirical research in psychology.
Learning Outcomes:
* Be able to conduct an individual piece of psychological research
* Be able to reflect on the strengths and limitations of the work and skills involved
* Be able to analyse data and to recognise the strengths and limitations of the methods used.
* Be able to write a 12,000 word dissertation
* Be able to present effectively an oral report of ongoing research.
Skills:
* Understands the scientific underpinnings of psychology as a discipline, its historical origins, development and limitations. (T/F A)
* Recognises the inherent variability and diversity of psychological functioning and its significance. (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 )
* 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 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)
* Can adopt multiple perspectives and systematically analyse the relationships between them. (T/F A)
* Can detect meaningful patterns in behaviour and experience and evaluate their significance. (T/F A)
* Can pose, operationalise and critically evaluate research questions. (T/F A)
* Can demonstrate substantial competence in research skills through practical activities. (T/F A)
* Can demonstrate competence in a range of qualitative research methods (T/F A)
* Can reason statistically and use a range of statistical methods with confidence. (T/F A)
* Can competently initiate, design, conduct and report an empirically-based research project under appropriate supervision, and can recognise its theoretical, practical and methodological implications and limitations. (T/F A)
* Is aware of the ethical context of psychology as a discipline and can demonstrate this in relation to personal study, particularly with regard to the research project. (T/F A)
* To reflect upon new technology and innovation within psychology and to make decisions regarding legitimacy, reliability and effectiveness. (T/F)
* To effectively and efficiently apply principles of psychological analysis within a variety of environments. (T/F)
* To develop sensitivity to the values and interests of others. (T/F)
* Can communicate ideas and research findings both effectively and fluently by written, oral and visual means. (T/F A)
* Can comprehend and use numerical, statistical and other forms of data, particularly in the context of presenting and analysing complex data sets. (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)
* 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 dissertation is conducted over two semesters. At the end of semester 1, the assessment is an oral presentation of work to date. At the end of semester 2, the assessed work is the complete 12,000 word report. Students are required to design the project, carry out data collection and analysis, and write a critical discussion.

PS30095: Child development

Credits: 6
Level: Honours
Semester: 2
Assessment: EX100
Requisites:
Before taking this unit you must take PS10001 or take PS10057 or take PS10058
Aims: To introduce students to human development from birth to old age. To equip students with knowledge of the major theories and debates in developmental psychology. To familiarise students with the methodologies of developmental psychology.
Learning Outcomes:
* To demonstrate an understanding of how psychologists conduct research on human development.
* Be familiar with the main theories of human development.
* Be aware of major debates and controversies in human development theory and research.
* Be able to utilise their knowledge to discuss issues in human development.
Skills:
* 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)
* 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)
* 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)
* Is sensitive to and can react appropriately to contextual and interpersonal factors in groups and teams. (T/F)
* Can undertake self-directed study and project management in order to meet desired objectives. (T/F)
* 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)
Content:
Key issues in theory of human development. How the 'well-equipped stranger' becomes the competent adult. Stages and developmental shifts. The development of language. The role of culture in human development. The development of self. Life crises and transitions.

Postgraduate units:


PS50029: Health, disease, illness & sickness

Credits: 6
Level: Masters
Semester: 1
Assessment: EX100
Requisites:
Aims:
* To provide a broad introduction to health psychology and health related disciplines;
* To locate many of the issues and health concerns of health psychology in the wider health sciences research context.
Learning Outcomes:
On completion of the unit students will:
* Be familiar with the contributions of different disciplines to the study of health, well-being and disease.
* Understand epidemiological approaches to studying the health of populations.
* Be able to show an understanding of the basic physiological and anatomical features of the most important bodily systems and their main disorders.
* Be able to demonstrate that they know about the changes in health psychology across the lifespan.
* Appreciate some of the key social processes that contribute to the experience and reporting of illness.
Skills:
Intellectual:
* To communicate an argument;
* To evaluate others arguments and research;
* To synthesise information from a number of sources in order to gain a coherent understanding. Professional / Practical:
* To make decisions regarding legitimacy and reliability of evidence;
* Essay research, preparation and writing skills;
* Revision and examination skills;
* Study and Learning skills.
Content:
The unit provides a broad introduction to health psychology and related health disciplines. It supplies the foundation stones for the remainder of the course by integrating related concepts from epidemiology, physiology, developmental psychology and medical sociology. The unit begins by introducing different models of health care, addresses causes of morbidity and mortality together with risk factors and inequalities in health care. Mechanisms of disease are considered, followed by a systematic appraisal of health across the lifespan from children to palliative care. Lastly the social processes of becoming ill are addressed.

PS50030: Health cognitions & health emotions

Credits: 6
Level: Masters
Semester: 1
Assessment: EX100
Requisites:
While taking this unit you must take PS50029
Aims:
* To equip students with advanced socio-cognitive and socio-affective knowledge applicable to health and healthcare across the spectrum of sickness and health.
Learning Outcomes:
On completion of this unit, students will:
* Understand and critically evaluate different variables, models, theories and approaches;
* Demonstrate an ability to debate contrasting viewpoints;
* Generate their own theoretical models.
Skills:
Intellectual:
* To think analytically;
* To communicate an argument;
* To critically assess and evaluate research and evidence as well as a variety of other information;
* To synthesise information from a variety of different sources in order to gain a coherent understanding. Professional / Practical:
* To work independently;
* To utilise problem solving skills;
* Revision and examination skills;
* Study skills.
Content:
The unit draws upon central concepts in cognitive and social psychology and examines their application to health and health care. The focus is on the health of individuals and the psychological processes and mechanisms involved in understanding sickness and well being.Measuring individual differences and psychophysiology. The self concept and body image. Hardiness, vulnerability and monitoring symptoms. Unrealistic optimism, controllability, self efficacy, uncertainty and helplessness. Perception and attention to symptoms. Representations and memories of health and illness. Information processing and decision-making about consultation. Models of stress, stressful environments and psychoneuro immunology.

PS50031: Treatment, communication and context

Credits: 6
Level: Masters
Semester: 1
Assessment: CW100
Requisites:
Aims:
* To provide students with a full appreciation of the psychological processes involved in the consultation, provision of treatment and its effects on subsequent behaviour and health in different settings and contexts.
Learning Outcomes:
On completion of this unit, students will:
* Demonstrate their ability to evaluate different contexts in which health care is delivered;
* Appreciate the impact of communications and be able to make recommendations about how these might be improved;
* Be able to assess the psychological impact of health professional behaviour on patient outcomes;
* Be able to evaluate the different factors involved in choosing health care.
Skills:
Intellectual:
* To think creatively and analytically;
* To communicate and argument;
* To work independently;
* To utilise problem solving skills;
* To critically evaluate and assess research and evidence;
* To synthesise information from a number of sources in order to gain a coherent understanding. Professional / Practical:
* To effectively and efficiently apply principles of health psychology within a variety of health contexts;
* Interpersonal communication skills;
* Study and learning skills.
Content:
The unit aims to provide students with a full appreciation of the psychological processes involved in the consultation, in the provision of treatment and its effects on subsequent behaviour, and health in different settings and contexts. Beliefs, expectations and preparation for treatments with particular reference to primary health care and screening. Help seeking, help giving and self-help. Communications between provider and patient including bad news. Adherence to treatment, alternatives to treatment and acceptance of treatment including the placebo. The context of treatment in institutions, surgeries and hospices.

PS50032: Coping with ill health

Credits: 6
Level: Masters
Semester: 1
Assessment: EX100
Requisites:
While taking this unit you must take PS50031
Aims:
* To provide students with a full appreciation of how ill people cope with chronic and acute health conditions.
Learning Outcomes:
On completion of this unit, students will:
* Understand how chronic diseases are managed in a psychological context;
* Understand the impact of psychological factors associated with coping with ill health;
* Learn the practical skills of relaxation training, increasing self-efficacy and stress management;
* Be aware of the factors that trigger and maintain disability and to know about psychological techniques used in the treatment of disability;
* Be aware of current health policy in Britain;
* Appreciate the role of the psychologist within the broad context of health care delivery.
Skills:
Intellectual:
* To communicate an argument;
* To evaluate others arguments and research;
* To learn independently;
* To synthesise information from a number of sources. Professional / Practical:
* To develop sensitivity to the values and interests of others;
* Time management and administration skills;
* Problem solving skills;
* Independent working skills.
Content:
Coping with acute illness, particularly pain and perioperative conditions. Coping styles, stress management and social support in chronic and acute conditions. Coping with chronic illness; models and mechanisms of chronic pain and disability. Vocational rehabilitation for chronically ill people. Policy and politics in the provision of health care.

PS50033: Advanced research design in health

Credits: 6
Level: Masters
Semester: 2
Assessment: CW100
Requisites:
Aims:
* To give students an appreciation of the uses of qualitative and quantitative methods and how they may be applied;
* To develop knowledge and skills in designing studies and therapeutic interventions.
Learning Outcomes:
On completion of this unit, students will:
* Understand the theory-driven approaches to health psychology research;
* Be familiar with the different methods of collecting/eliciting data and their implications for analysis and interpretation;
* Understand the distinctions between quantitative and qualitative data and to be familiar with a range of data collection and processing techniques;
* Be able to measure psychological constructs using scalar methods;
* Be able to design their own research using an appropriate design and selecting suitable analysis procedures.
Skills:
Intellectual:
* To critically assess and evaluate research and evidence as well as a variety of other information;
* To gather information, data, research and literature from a number of different sources;
* To utilise problem solving skills;
* To communicate an argument. Professional / Practical:
* To be sensitive to the ethical issues in carrying out research and the legal and statutory responsibilities of the researcher;
* Time management and administration skills;
* Independent working skills.
Content:
Qualitative methods to include discourse and conversation analysis, interviewing, action research. Doing research. Uses of theory and theory development. Research issues including ethical practices professional and legal issues, international perspectives. Quantitative methods and experimental designs to include designing cross-sectional, longitudinal, single case and RCT designs, meta analysis, measuring outcomes, including focus groups.

PS50034: Health promotion, disease prevention & health psychology interventions

Credits: 12
Level: Masters
Semester: 2
Assessment: EX70CW30
Requisites:
Before taking this unit you must take PS50032
Aims:
* To explore the role of health psychologists in promoting health;
* To provide theoretical and empirical background to health promotion.
Learning Outcomes:
On completion of this unit, students will:
* Appreciate the different approaches taken by health professionals involved in health promotion;
* Learn how to plan and target health promotion interventions;
* Evaluate the merits of different contexts of health promotion;
* Learn how language can affect the success of different interventions;
* Learn how practitioners implement a variety of interventions for patients with chronic diseases and disabling conditions.
Skills:
Intellectual:
* To think creatively and analytically (TFA);
* To communicate an argument (TFA);
* To evaluate others arguments and research (TFA);
* Critically evaluate and assess research and evidence (TFA);
* To utilise problem solving skills (TFA). Professional / Practical:
* To learn how to apply principles of health psychology in a variety of health contexts (TFA);
* To develop sensitivity to the values and interests of others (TFA);
* To work independently and in groups (TFA);
* To communicate an argument to other health professionals (TFA);
* Presentation skills (A);
* Time Management Skills (TF).
Content:
This unit will explore the role of health psychologists in promoting health and in health related interventions. The unit will provide theoretical and empirical background and will also enable opportunities for the development of problem solving, team-work and communication skills. During the three weeks students will work in teams to develop a proposal for a health promotion intervention from need assessment to evaluation. This will be assessed in a team presentation and an individual portfolio, including the materials to be used. Details will be given at the start of the module.

PS50035: Measurement & meaning in the natural & social sciences

Credits: 6
Level: Masters
Semester: 1
Assessment: ES100
Requisites:

Aims & Learning Objectives:
Aims: This is an introductory course for postgraduate students who need to develop their understanding of the historical, philosophical and social factors that shape research methods in the humanities and social sciences, and of related philosophical and methodological issues. With a particular focus on two contrasting approaches -- the interpretation of texts and images and the development and impact of measuring and computing technologies, this unit aims to provide an overview of the way in which interpretative and quantitative approaches develop in various sciences, of how they interact and of how standardised quantitative methods achieve acceptance across disciplines. Students will become familiar with key concepts, arguments and authors in the philosophy of social science which they will be expected to apply to their own particular research field. The unit will provide them with an understanding of assumptions, techniques, technologies and social institutions on which different types of methods are based, and will equip them with critical insights to be applied to their own work.
Learning Objectives: By the end of the course the students should: Knowledge and understanding:
* Be aware of several significant developments in methods including hermeneutics, the use and interpretation of images; the analysis of metaphor, standardisation of methods; the development of laboratories, the rise of statistics, bureaucracy and trust in numbers, digitalization, calculation and computation, models, modeling and simulation.
* Understand the contextual character of methods and how they become established as definitive of a disciplines or of research fields within a discipline. Intellectual skills:
* Be able to recognise and describe different research styles associated with the humanities, social and natural sciences;
* Be able to recognise and describe philosophical and methodological issues associated with particular methods;
* Be able to identify features of method that contribute to the validation of results;
* Be able to identify features of method that give rise to controversy between research groups within and between disciplines, recognising that this is often disputed;
* Be familiar with the arguments of key advocates of mainstream approaches to the interpretation of texts, images, and quantitative data. Professional practice skills:
* Understand that methods have histories and that selection of methods requires justification;
* Apply understanding of the disputed nature of method to the evaluation and justification of particular methods in humanities and social science research.
Content:
The course will cover: Hermeneutics; Making and Reading Images; Envisioning Information; Use and analysis of Metaphors; Method and Controversy; Bureaucracy, Measurement and Modern Science; Method as a standard and the Standardisation of Method; Transforming qualities to quantities: Quantification, Calculation and Computation; Instruments: material, conceptual and social; Models, Hypotheses and Theories; Models and Simulations; The rise of Statistics; Guest speakers from different disciplines will provide seminars on various aspects of the history and use of methods in the humanities and the sciences.

PS50036: Public knowledge: history, philosophy, sociology & psychology of science

Credits: 6
Level: Masters
Semester: 1
Assessment: EX40ES60
Requisites:
In taking this unit you cannot take PS30026
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, and to apply these views to science communication and the public understanding of science.
Learning Outcomes:
To enable students (i) 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 and (ii) to demonstrate how these views bear upon the communication of science and issues in the debate about public understanding of science.
Skills:
* Comprehensive and scholarly written communication (e.g. essays) (T/F A)
* Concise, time-bound and effective written communication (e.g. briefings/exams) (T/F A)
* Effective oral communication (e.g. seminar presentations) (T/F A)
* Ability to select, summarise and synthesise written information from multiple sources. (T/F A)
* Ability to develop rigorous arguments through precise use of concepts and models. (T/F A)
* Ability to synthesise multidisciplinary perspectives on the same problem. (T/F A)
* Ability to select and use appropriate ideas to produce a coherent response to a pre-set question. (T/F A)
* Ability to formulate a research question, then develop and present an original and coherent answer. (T/F A)
* Ability to produce work to agreed specifications and deadlines. (T/F A)
* Ability to work independently, without close supervision or guidance (T/F)
Content:
Contested views about science: traditions, continuity and change; disciplinary approaches to science studies; understanding scientific practice; scientists on science; Scientific, Expert and Lay Knowledge; Science and Public Understanding; Public Acceptance of Science & 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 review essay.

PS50041: Media workshop 1

Credits: 6
Level: Masters
Semester: 2
Assessment:
Requisites:

Content:
TBA

PS50042: Media workshop 2

Credits: 6
Level: Masters
Semester: 2
Assessment:
Requisites:

Content:
TBA

PS50043: Dissertation 1: Design, pilot project & evaluation

Credits: 12
Level: Masters
Semester: 2
Assessment: DS90OR10
Requisites:

Aims & Learning Objectives:
(i) to establish a topic and research plan for the dissertation,
(ii) to evaluate the feasibility of the planned research on the basis of a pilot study and an evaluation conference,
(iii) provide an opportunity for students to present and defend the proposal in a peer seminar.
Content:
Requires students to apply knowledge and skills acquired on the Research Methods Units to the planning and design of a thesis project, and to prepare and conduct a pilot study. Seminar participation during a project evaluation conference is required.

PS50044: Dissertation - research & write up 1

Credits: 6
Level: Masters
Semester: 2
Assessment:
Requisites:

Content:
TBA

PS50045: Dissertation - research & write up 2 (MSc)

Credits: 24
Level: Masters
Dissertation period
Assessment: DS100
Requisites:

Content:
TBA

PS50046: The cultures of belief

Credits: 3
Level: Masters
Semester: 2
Assessment: ES70PR30
Requisites:
While taking this unit you must take PS50047 and in taking this unit you cannot take PS30059

Aims & Learning Objectives:
This unit provides an historical exposition of the changing relationship between major religious traditions and western science, and a critical discussion of theses about the ways in which religion and science interact. Students will be expected to demonstrate, through written assignments and seminar discussion, that they have mastered the arguments of at least two main authors or schools and can make a critical appraisal of these arguments. Additionally, postgraduate degree students will understand and be able to explain the relevance of these positions and arguments to contemporary issues in the public understanding of science, particularly the popularisation of scientific theories.
Content:
Attention will be given to historical and philosophical views of the nature of religion and of science, theses about their interaction (e.g., conflict, independence, interdependence); each of the main theses will be examined in the light of recent historical and critical studies. The application by popular science writers of core scientific theories to religious and metaphysical themes is also explored.

PS50047: Science and religion

Credits: 3
Level: Masters
Semester: 2
Assessment: ES80OR20
Requisites:
In taking this unit you cannot take PS30060

Aims & Learning Objectives:
This unit examines the roles of religious and scientific traditions in western culture with particular reference to Christian theology, traditions and religious practices, in order to provide (1) an deeper understanding of the cultural context of the ways in which Christianity and western science interact and (2) an analytical basis to evaluate claims about the implications of religious beliefs and practices for science and of scientific developments for Christianity. Students will be expected to demonstrate, through written assignments and seminar discussion, that they have mastered the arguments of at least two main authors or schools and can make a critical appraisal of these arguments. Postgraduate degree students will understand and be able to explain the relevance of the interaction of western science and religious traditions to contemporary issues in the public understanding of science, particularly the popularisation of scientific theories as presented in popular books and films.
Content:
Studies of the cultural context of historical and philosophical views of the nature of religion and of science; critical analysis of theses about their interaction; examination and appraisal of historical and contemporary claims about the implications of science for religions and of religion for science; implications for Public Understanding of Science, esp. the place of science in post-modern culture. Students will be expected to demonstrate through seminar discussion, an assessed oral presentation and an extended essay that they have mastered the arguments of the main authors or protagonists and can make a critical appraisal of their arguments.

PS50051: Health psychology placement

Credits: 6
Level: Masters
Semester: 2
Assessment: OT100
Requisites:
Aims: To provide students with the opportunity to develop skills as a scientist-practitioner by working closely with a practising health psychologist.
Learning Outcomes:
On completion of the placement, students will:
* Develop the skills required as autonomous researchers and for team work.
* Develop transferable skills that will prepare them for postgraduate employment or further study.
Skills:
Intellectual:
* To gather information, data, research and literature from a broad range of sources.
* To synthesise information from different sources in order to gain a coherent understanding. Professional / Practical:
* To be aware of ethical and professional issues in carrying out research and to put them into practice.
* Time management, organisation and administration skills.
* Presentation skills and verbal communication.
* To reflect on her/his academic performance and take responsibility for personal and professional learning and development.
* Leadership skills.
* To develop sensitivity to the values and interests of other professionals and clients.
Content:
The student will work on a daily basis alongside a practising health psychologist. Students are encouraged to take part in the daily life of the institution where they work, participate in meetings with other health professionals and clients, involve themselves in other on-going projects and undertake a research project of their own that is analysed and presented as a dissertation.

PS50055: Dissertation

Credits: 30
Level: Masters
Semester: 2
Assessment: DS100
Requisites:
Aims: To provide students with the opportunity to carry out an independent research project by putting into practice some of the methods, theories and skills that they have learned.
Learning Outcomes:
On completion of the dissertation, students will:
* Have developed their research skills;
* Developed the skills required for both autonomous and team work;
* Developed transferable skills that will prepare them for postgraduate employment or further study;
* Developed their critical, analytical problem-based learning skills.
Skills:
Intellectual:
* To communicate an argument;
* To critically evaluate and assess research and evidence;
* To gather information, data , research and literature from a number of sources;
* To synthesise information from a number of sources in order to gain a coherent understanding. Professional / Practical:
* To effectively and efficiently apply principles of health psychology within a health context;
* To be aware of ethical and professional issues in carrying out research;
* Time management and administration skills;
* Presentation skills and verbal communication;
* To reflect on his/her academic performance and take responsibility for personal and professional learning and development;
* Advanced numeracy skills;
* Leadership skills.
Content:
The student will carry out a substantial research project of their own design, in health psychology, under the joint supervision of a practising health psychologist and an academic supervisor.

PS50061: Artificial minds: Minds, machines & persons

Credits: 6
Level: Masters
Semester: 1
Assessment: ES80OR20
Requisites:
Before taking this unit you must take PS50036 and in taking this unit you cannot take PS30019

Aims & Learning Objectives:
This course introduces some recent research in the field of computer-based modeling and simulation of human activities which require the intelligent use of knowledge, otherwise known as Artificial Intelligence. We will approach machine intelligence through two complementary questions: could human intelligence be simulated, equalled or even exceeded by machines? Can the machine-metaphor still help us understand human cognitive and social processes? Students will understand the relevance of research in A. I. To larger questions concerning the nature of intelligence and of scientific approaches to the replication of complex attributes such as intelligence. MSc/Diploma students will additionally be expected to relate their understanding to issues addressed in MSc core units, specifically the significance of boundary issues (human, animal and machine) and the debates on public understanding of scientific research on AI and robotics.
Content:
Machine-metaphors for human thinking and reasoning now compete with evolutionary biology and neurology for influence in both psychological and sociological approaches to human behaviour. The course will provide historical background, will introduce some of the main approaches and research projects in the field, and will set out two main areas of debate: criticisms made by AI researchers about rival approaches, and arguments of philosophers, sociologists and psychologists about the attempt to simulate intelligence. Students will become familiar with key authors and texts, and will learn to evaluate claims about computer programs relating to:
* their power, intelligence or other capabilities
* their influence upon psychological and social theory
* their continuing role in psychological and social research
* their influence on our notions of expertise, intelligence, creativity and humanity. MSc/Diploma students will undertake research for an additional essay on the impact of AI research on human/machine boundaries. This unit shares teaching with the undergraduate unit of the same title PS30019.

PS50063: Controversies in cognition

Credits: 6
Level: Masters
Semester: 2
Assessment: EX50ES50
Requisites:
Before taking this unit you must take PS50036

Aims & Learning Objectives:
To equip the student with an understanding of current issues and controversies in psychology. Additionally, MSc/Diploma students will be expected to relate their understanding to issues addressed in MSc core units, specifically the significance of controversiality in science and the debates on public understanding of science.
Content:
The course will address key issues in contemporary psychology relating to cognition, language and models of mind. These will include: problems of consciousness and the interface of neuroscience, cognitive science and philosophy; connectionist theory and its implications; the rise of evolutionary psychology; debates about culture and human development. An additional requirement for MSc students is to discuss the development of one of the above debates in relation to contemporary public understanding of the significance of psychological research. This unit shares teaching with the undergraduate unit PS30017 of the same title.

PS50064: Placement

Credits: 3
Level: Masters
Semester: 2
Assessment:
Requisites:

Content:
Placement

PS50065: Multivariate statistics for use in health contexts 1

Credits: 3
Level: Masters
Semester: 1
Assessment: CW100
Requisites:
While taking this unit you must take PS50066
Aims:
* To equip students with the skills to use and interpret multivariate statistics using SPSS and appreciate the applications of multivariate analysis in health.
Learning Outcomes:
On completion of this unit, students will:
* Have refreshed their knowledge of univariate and some multivariate parametric statistics;
* Learn how to use SPSS to analyse health data and to handle data sets;
* Be able to interpret the answers to statistical analyses and report them within the health context.
Skills:
Intellectual:
* To learn independently;
* To critically evaluate and assess research and evidence as well as a variety of other information;
* To utilise problem solving skills. Professional / Practical:
* Advanced information technology and computing technology (e.g. SPSS);
* Independent working skills;
* Advanced numeracy skills.
Content:
Refresher sessions in univariate parametric and non-parametric statistics using SPSS, advanced correlations and factor analysis, discriminant analysis, ANOVA and ANCOVA.

PS50066: Multivariate statistics for use in health contexts 2

Credits: 3
Level: Masters
Semester: 1
Assessment: CW100
Requisites:
Aims:
* To equip students with the skills to use and interpret multivariate statistics using SPSS and appreciate the applications of multivariate analysis in health.
Learning Outcomes:
On completion of this unit, student will:
* Have refreshed their knowledge of univariate and some multivariate parametric statistics;
* Learn how to use SPSS to analyse health data and to handle data sets;
* Be able to interpret the answers to statistical analyses and report them within the health context.
Skills:
Intellectual:
* To learn independently;
* To critically evaluate and assess research and evidence as well as a variety of other information;
* To utilise problem solving skills. Professional / Practical:
* Advanced information technology and computing technology (e.g. SPSS);
* Independent working skills;
* Advanced numeracy skills.
Content:
Multiple regression (simple, stepwise and hierarchical), Path analysis, MANOVA and MANCOVA.

PS50067: Communication theory

Credits: 6
Level: Masters
Semester: 1
Assessment: EX50ES50
Requisites:
While taking this unit you must take CM50147 and take CM50148 and take XX50125

Aims & Learning Objectives:
To enable students to understand the psychological principles of communication. Students will be able to demonstrate an understanding of how meaning, discourse and rhetoric are constructed and interpreted.
Content:
The unit will cover the analysis of meaning, and on problems of interpretation and construction of meaning. through looking at rhetoric, semiotics, 'common ground', discourse, narrative and metaphor. There will be material on the psychology of intra and inter group communication, and on general theories of communication; medium and message issues, and formal and informal channels of communication. Culture and context, both macro and micro, will be explored.

PS50071: Science & communication I

Credits: 6
Level: Masters
Semester: 1
Assessment: CW25EX25OT50
Requisites:
Aims: To equip students with an appreciation of the main debates in the relationship between science and public understanding, and with knowledge of communication theory and methods of analysis.
Learning Outcomes:
Students will understand the theoretical and methodological issues involved in science communication. They will be familiar with the role of language discourse, rhetoric and metaphor in written, visual and virtual media. They will be acquainted with major controversies around science and 'anti-science' and in areas of scientific debate. They will be familiar with issues relating to efforts to increase public understanding of science, and the relationship between science and culture.
Skills:
* Comprehensive and scholarly written communication (e.g. essays) (T/F A)
* Concise, time-bound and effective written communication (e.g. briefings/exams) (T/F A)
* Effective oral communication (e.g. seminar presentations) (T/F A)Ability to select, summarise and synthesise written information from multiple sources. (T/F A)
* Ability to develop rigorous arguments through precise use of concepts and models. (T/F A)
* Ability to synthesise multidisciplinary perspectives on the same problem. (T/F A)
* Ability to select and use appropriate ideas to produce a coherent response to a pre-set question. (T/F A)
* Ability to formulate a research question, then develop and present an original and coherent answer. (T/F A)
* Ability to produce work to agreed specifications and deadlines. (T/F A)
* Ability to work independently, without close supervision or guidance (T/F)
Content:
The 'Two Cultures' debate and its heirs; Public understanding of science: the history of recent agendas; What constitutes 'science'?; Scientific literacy criticised: how to study (measure, analyse) what people understand and don't understand about science and what we can learn from this - examples from understanding the immune system; Science fiction and representations of science; the role of metaphor; Mechanisms of rhetoric; Discourse and narrative; the relationship between politics, activism and science; Epistemic cultures: how knowledge is held and transmitted.

PS50072: Science & communication 2

Credits: 6
Level: Masters
Semester: 2
Assessment: EX25OR25OT50
Requisites:
Before taking this unit you must take PS50071
Aims: To provide students with the skills to analyse and interpret science communication and the relationship between science and culture, building on Science and Communication 1.
Learning Outcomes:
Students will be able to use interpretative methods for analysing film, video written and virtual media material relating to science communication. They will be able to present such analyses using a range of media techniques.
Skills:
* Comprehensive and scholarly written communication (e.g. essays) (T/F A)
* Concise, time-bound and effective written communication (e.g. briefings/exams) (T/F A)
* Effective oral communication (e.g. seminar presentations) (T/F A)
* Ability to select, summarise and synthesise written information from multiple sources. (T/F A)
* Ability to develop rigorous arguments through precise use of concepts and models. (T/F A)
* Ability to synthesise multidisciplinary perspectives on the same problem. (T/F A)
* Ability to select and use appropriate ideas to produce a coherent response to a pre-set question. (T/F A)
* Ability to formulate a research question, then develop and present an original and coherent answer. (T/F A)
* Ability to produce work to agreed specifications and deadlines. (T/F A)
* Ability to work independently, without close supervision or guidance (T/F)
Content:
Brain science and science fiction brains; changing cultural conceptions of mind/brain and mental health; the metaphor of 'connections' in portrayal of the brain and its development - dangers to the brain, and the dangerous brain; Analysis of film/drama; video documentary; written text; the Internet.

PS50078: Theoretical issues in psychology

Credits: 6
Level: Masters
Semester: 1
Assessment: ES75OR25
Requisites:
Aims: To equip students with an understanding of the nature of psychological knowledge. To enable them to appreciate the role of biological context, social context and cultural perspectives on the formulation of psychological theories and research.
Learning Outcomes:
Knowledge and Understanding:
* have a critical appreciation of how theory in psychology developso understand the relationship between theory and methodology;
* understand the relationship between biological perspectives and social perspectives in theory and research questions in key studies;
* be aware of the cultural context within which research questions and theories are developed, and data interpreted;
* understand the epistemological context of key studies in psychology and the implications of these for interpretation of data;
* be able to apply their understanding of key studies in psychology to the principles of research design;
* have an in-depth appreciation of the development and evaluation of key studies in psychology;
* be able to appreciate alternative approaches to core research questions;
* appreciate the tensions between applied and policy considerations and theoretical agendas, in the development of research questions in psychology;
* appreciate the relationship between psychology and other disciplines in the development of research in psychology.
Skills:
* effective presentation of material using appropriate visual aids;
* develop writing skills and skills in the formulation of argument and the presentation of critical appreciation of debate and controversy.
Content:
The unit will comprise
1. core lectures on key theoretical issues in psychology, in social, cognitive, health, developmental, communication and applied fields and the history of psychology,
2. indepth studies of selected key research, through seminar and essay work.

PS50081: Extended essay in health psychology

Credits: 6
Level: Masters
Semester: 2
Assessment: CW100
Requisites:
Aims: To allow students the opportunity to develop a more in depth understanding of a key health psychology issue of their own choice.
Learning Outcomes:
On completion of the unit students will have:
* Identified (through consultation with a supervisor) and examined in considerable depth a specialist topic in health psychology of their own choosing.
* Have a deeper, more coherent and more analytical understanding of health psychology theory, methods and practice.
Skills:
Intellectual:
* To think and write creatively and analytically.
* To communicate a debate.
* To critically assess and evaluate research carried out by others.
Professional / Practical:
* Study and learning skills.
* Ability to communicate and work well with an advisor.
* Essay research, preparation and writing skills.
* Independent/autonomous working skills.
* Ability to formulate a research question and present a coherent answer.
Content:
Any area of health psychology for which an adequate level of supervision can be offered.

PS50096: History of psychology

Credits: 6
Level: Masters
Semester: 1
Assessment: EX50ES50
Requisites:
In taking this unit you cannot take PS30014
Aims: To equip the student with an understanding of the History of Psychology and a critical understanding of the relationship between a historical perspective and how a field is conceptualised.
Learning Outcomes:
* To demonstrate a critical understanding of the development of theory.
* To demonstrate a critical understanding of the development of methodology.
* Be familiar with the development of critiques.
* Demonstrate a critical understanding of the relationship between the development of psychology and related fields.
* Demonstrate a critical understanding of the role of social and historical context in historical accounts and in the acceptance of new ideas.
Skills:
* Concise, time-bound and effective written communication (T/F A)
* Ability to select, summarise and synthesise written information from multiple sources (T/F A)
* Ability to develop rigorous arguments through precise use of concepts and models (T/F A)
* Ability to synthesise multidisciplinary perspectives on the same problem (T/F A)
* Ability to select and use appropriate ideas to produce a coherent response to a pre-set question (T/F A)
* Ability to produce work to agreed specifications and deadlines (T/F A)
* Ability to work independently, without close supervision or guidance (T/F A)
Content:
The function that historical perspective plays in how we think about a field. Key ideas in the history of psychology; their context and roots. How and why such ideas waxed and waned. The predominant and recurrent themes in the history of psychology. Key individuals in psychology, and how their intellectual lives illuminate how ideas are embedded in cultural and historical context.

PS50097: Mind & social being

Credits: 6
Level: Masters
Semester: 1
Assessment: ES100
Requisites:
In taking this unit you cannot take PS30018
Aims: To equip the student with an understanding of the social construction of knowledge in relation to psychological theory and research.
Learning Outcomes:
* To demonstrate a critical understanding of key theories on the nature of the self as a social being.
* To analytically apply this understanding to central issues of psychological research:
* To be reflexive about their learning and the processes of group work.
Skills:
* Cross-cultural and interpersonal sensitivity (T/F A)
* Comprehensive and scholarly written communication (T/F A)
* Effective oral communication (T/F)
* Ability to select, summarise and synthesise written information from multiple sources (T/F A)
* Ability to develop rigorous arguments through precise use of concepts and models (T/F A)
* Ability to synthesise multidisciplinary perspectives on the same problem (T/F A)
* Ability to select and use appropriate ideas to produce a coherent response to a pre-set question (T/F A)
* Ability to produce work to agreed specifications and deadlines (T/F A)
* Ability to work independently, without close supervision or guidance (T/F A)
* Ability to work effectively as part of a group or team (T/F)
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.

PS50098: Understanding gender relations

Credits: 6
Level: Masters
Semester: 2
Assessment: ES60RT40
Requisites:
In taking this unit you cannot take PS30084
Aims:
* To encourage a critical understanding of the key theoretical and empirical research within mainstream social psychological approaches to the study of gender relations;
* To develop students' knowledge of the main feminist perspectives on gender relations and their relevance for social psychology;
* To promote a critical understanding of the main areas of theoretical and empirical research within critical social psychology which draw on feminist approaches;
* To encourage students to apply a range of mainstream, feminist and critical social psychological approaches to specific issues of relevance to gender relations.
* To develop students' critical understanding of the relationship between social relations around gender and class, ethnicity and sexuality.
Learning Outcomes:
After successful completion of this course students should be able to:
* Describe and discuss the value of mainstream social psychological approaches to the study of gender relations, including research on the psychology of sex differences, theories of gender-role socialisation and Social Identity Theory.
* Critically evaluate various feminist perspectives with reference to their relevance for social psychological research, including liberal, Marxist, radical, psychoanalytic and Black feminist approaches.
* Compare and contrast the value of mainstream, feminist and critical social psychological approaches to the study of gender relations.
* Evaluate the application of mainstream, feminist and critical social psychological approaches to specific issues of relevance for gender relations.
Skills:
* Cross-cultural and interpersonal sensitivity (T/F A)
* Comprehensive and scholarly written communication (T/F A)
* Effective oral communication (T/F)
* Ability to select, summarise and synthesise written information from multiple sources (T/F A)
* Ability to develop rigorous arguments through precise use of concepts and models (T/F A)
* Ability to synthesise multidisciplinary perspectives on the same problem (T/F A)
* Ability to select and use appropriate ideas to produce a coherent response to a pre-set question (T/F A)
* Ability to produce work to agreed specifications and deadlines (T/F A)
* Ability to work independently, without close supervision or guidance (T/F A)
* Ability to work effectively as part of a group or team (T/F)
Content:
The course will cover: (1) Mainstream social psychology approaches to gender, including psychology of sex differences research, gender stereotyping and sex-role socialisation theory, social identity theory and evolutionary approaches; (2) Feminist approaches, including Liberal, Marxist and Radical feminist approaches, psychoanalytic theory and Black feminism; and (3) Critical social psychology approaches, including research on identity and subjectivity, embodiment, language and discourse, and representations. In the seminar section of the classes, students will facilitate discussion on the following topics: gender and mental health; family life; waged and unwaged work; men and masculinities; gender and language; rape and sexual violence; body image and eating disorders; romance and sexuality.

PS50099: Science on the Web: website design and evaluation

Credits: 3
Level: Masters
Semester: 2
Assessment: CW100
Requisites:
While taking this unit you must take PS50071
Aims: To make students aware of different uses of websites; to introduce students to the principles and practice of website evaluation and design and to provide experience of designing, producing and evaluating a science communication website.
Learning Outcomes:
Students should be familiar with principles and practice of website evaluation; be able to understand a 'brief' (client specifications) for a website, to design and programme a basic working site using up-to-date website authoring software in line with standard design and legal requirements, and to deal with feedback about usability and access.
Skills:
Evaluation with respect to a brief; appraisal of evaluation criteria; Understanding and use of design criteria; use of Dreamweaver MX.
Content:
Lectures on: uses of the web in science research and science communication; website design, evaluation and legal requirements. Training sessions on: use of web-authoring software. Group sessions on: web evaluation and web-authoring.

XX50053: Project dissertation

Credits: 30
Level: Masters
Dissertation period
Assessment: DS100
Requisites:
Aims & Learning Objectives: To develop skills of individual project effort in a computer based practical undertaking with original development content related to one or more of the lecture modules previously studied. On completion of the Unit students should be able to survey the literature related to a broadly specified area of technology and present an orderly written survey which places an individual project undertaking in context. They should be able to identify the tasks to be completed, plan a scheme of work, and complete the project to the standard expected of a young professional in the undertaking chosen. They should be able to assemble and create the necessary software tools, carry out the development of the solution of a technical problem in multimedia, and evaluate the effectiveness of their solution against common standards of quality. They should be able to demonstrate the successful completion of these tasks in a well structured and coherently written dissertation.
Content:
Students will choose a project from a list of topics offered by the Departments, or propose their own. The project will be implemented in software but could also involve the use of low level hardware. The students will be expected to follow through the accepted problem solving route, beginning with the identification and specification of the problem and searching of the relevant literature. They should then proceed to proposals for solution, analysis of alternatives, implementation of the chosen solution and final evaluation and testing. A written dissertation will be submitted at the completion of the project.

XX50125: Methodology & explanation

Credits: 6
Level: Masters
Semester: 1
Assessment: ES80OR20
Requisites:
While taking this unit you must take CM50147 and take CM50148 and take PS50067

Aims & Learning Objectives:
To give the students an introductory understanding of research methods in human-computer interaction and communication research. To raise students awareness of the scientific and engineering methods used in the context of human-human and human computer interaction. Students will be able to apply appropriate techniques for the interpretation of material, including observational and ethnographic material, and for a critical understanding of assumptions that underpin the development and application of models. They will be able to understand and apply methods of analysis, experimentation and model building. The students should be able to distinguish between descriptive, predictive and prescriptive models, design and carry out empirical studies including experimental and observational approaches, apply analytical techniques to the analysis of human-human and human-computer interactions, and construct descriptive, qualitative, quantitative and explanatory accounts of human-human and human computer interaction.
Content:
Methods of analysing and interpreting, issues in ethnographic and experimental approaches. Constructing explanatory v. descriptive models. Critical and meta issues. Questions about dialogue between 'tools' and 'persons' and issues in model-building. Core Reading: D.A. Norman The Psychology of Everyday Things, Addison Wesley 1996 L Perelman School's Out; hyperlearning Avon Books 1992 G Salomon (ed) Distributed Cognitions; psychological and educational considerations Cambridge 1996 D Watts Small Worlds; the dynamics of networks between order and randomness, Princeton 1999

XX50126: Dialogue between system & theory

Credits: 6
Level: Masters
Semester: 2
Assessment: EX50ES50
Requisites:
Before taking this unit you must take CM50147 and take CM50148 and take PS50067 and take XX50125 and while taking this unit you must take CM50149 and take CM50150 and take XX50127 and take XX50128

Aims & Learning Objectives:
To understand the relationships between systems and theories. Students will be able to appreciate the tensions between human processes and systems.
Content:
The unit will explore the inherent tensions between theories of human processes and the design of effective systems. It will look at the effect of systems on human processes. The historical dimensions will be explored, issues in the evolution of ideas and design, task artefact cycle, and reflections on ways of avoiding re-inventing the wheel through an inadequate appreciation of the history of technology and design. The unit will also explore tensions between evolutionary and predictive design. Core Reading: G Basalla The Evolution of Technology, Cambridge 1988 P Denning and R Metcalfe (eds) Beyond Calculation; the next fifty years of computing, Copernicus 1998 A Dix et al Human Computer Interaction, Prentice Hall 1997 D Gelernter The Muse in the Machine Free Press 1994 D Norman Defending Human Attributes in the Age of the Machine, Voyager CD-Rom 1999 S Turkle Life on the Screen; identity in the age of the Internet, Simon & Schuster 1995 D Watts Small Worlds; the dynamics of networks between order and randomness, Princeton 1999

XX50127: Communication, interaction & tasks

Credits: 6
Level: Masters
Semester: 2
Assessment: ES80OR20
Requisites:
Before taking this unit you must take CM50147 and take CM50148 and take PS50067 and take XX50125 and while taking this unit you must take CM50149 and take CM50150 and take XX50126 and take XX50128
Aims: To enable students to assess and understand the human contexts and consequences of communication technologies and their development. To enable students to contribute to the design, development and application of communication technologies to improve human- human communication. To enable students to contribute to the design, development and application of new digital technologies to support learning.
Learning Outcomes:
Students will be able to:
* analyse social and cognitive aspects of human-human communication in relation to the context of the tasks that people jointly pursue.
* critically and creatively reason about the design of communication technologies to support human-human communication.
* apply relevant theory to decide on the task-appropriateness of collaborative technologies in general and digital technology to support learning in particular.
Content:
The unit will look at interactive systems and the implication of systems for the design of tasks. It will explore the relationship between communication systems and group contexts, particularly the social origins and factors in communication, and the consequences of such developments for social groups, for sharing knowledge and for learning. It will consider how far it is possible to design effective technologies and practices, for range of contexts for groups, organisations and cultures.

XX50128: Project 1

Credits: 12
Level: Masters
Semester: 2
Assessment: CW100
Requisites:
Before taking this unit you must take CM50147 and take CM50148 and take PS50067 and take XX50125 and while taking this unit you must take CM50149 and take CM50150 and take XX50126 and take XX50127

Aims & Learning Objectives:
To acquire the skills of planning independent research. Students will be able to complete a literature review and write a research proposal.
Content:
Students will undertake an original piece of work, which would normally bridge the disciplines involved in the programme. The first stage of the Project will comprise a literature/conceptual review and research proposal which may comprise theoretical, empirical or design components. Students completing the Diploma will be assessed on this report. Students progressing to the masters degree will be assessed and will use this work as the basis for the study that forms the second stage of the Project.

XX50129: Project 2

Credits: 30
Level: Masters
Dissertation period
Assessment: DS80OR20
Requisites:
Before taking this unit you must take XX50128

Aims & Learning Objectives:
To acquire the skills of executing and reporting an original piece of research. Students will demonstrate their ability to design, execute and report an original piece of research.
Content:
Students will undertake an original project which may comprise theoretical, empirical or design components, and would normally bridge the disciplines involved in the programme. This will normally form the second stage of the Project, of which the first stage (XX50128) comprises the literature review and research proposal. Project 2 will involve the conduct of the planned research, its analysis and reporting in a dissertation of up to 15,000 words, which will account for 80% of the assessment, and an oral presentation which accounts for 20% of the assessment.

 

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