Department of Psychology, Unit Catalogue 2007/08 |
PS10089 Controversies in Psychology 2 |
| Credits: 6 |
| Level: Certificate |
| Semester: 2 |
| Assessment: ES 45%, OR 45%, OT 10% |
| Requisites: |
| While taking this unit you must take PS10086 |
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Aims:
* To introduce students to basic concepts and current debates in psychology. * To familiarise students with some classic psychological studies. * To provide a small group teaching experience. 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? |