Description
The module draws on various different perspectives in psychology, biology and behavioural sciences in order to explore various conceptual and historical issues relating to how psychological science is/has been conducted, disseminated and applied in the wider world, and how individuals have attempted to understand our place in the world. Conceptual issues in psychology are discussed, and students are introduced to skills useful for academic and non-academic research more generally.
Aims
The module will provide students with an understanding of key critical debates on what it means to be human and some of the issues inherent in the conduct, dissemination and application of research on human behaviour. Students will be able to use this knowledge to explore their discipline at a societal and conceptual level, which, in turn, will facilitate useful professional and research-related skills.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this module the student should be able to:
1. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of debates on the nature of mind, behaviour and self, and be able to place research in Psychology in its historical context.
2. Be able to appreciate and communicate the multi-disciplinary nature of research on human behaviour, drawing on different "schools-of-thought" where appropriate.
3. Show competence when comparing and contrasting papers/texts and perspectives within psychological science.
4. Be able to reflect on the conduct, dissemination and application of research in psychological science in ways that enhance students' own research-related skills and ability to problem-solve.
Indicative Content
1 Philosophy of science: How we formulate and answer questions
How is science funded, conducted and disseminated? What is a theory and a good explanation?
2 Conceptual issues and current directions in Psychology
Metaphors of mind. Perspectives on, and applications of, psychology. Is the mind a blank slate? Is the DSM valid? How do you know what is ‘true’? Ethics, politics and moral psychology
3 Know thyself: Perspectives on self
Relationships between 'self' and memory. Can psychological experiments answer philosophical questions about flourishing and the meaning of life?
4 History of Psychology
A broad overview of common themes and debates running through the history of our field. Linking past ideas to current thinking. The 'shaping' of psychology by social forces and the 'Psychologization of society'.
Teaching and Learning Work Loads
Teaching and Learning Method | Hours |
Lecture | 12 |
Tutorial/Seminar | 24 |
Practical Activity | 0 |
Assessment | 74 |
Independent | 90 |
Total | 200 |
Guidance notes
SCQF Level - The Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework provides an indication of the complexity of award qualifications and associated learning and operates on an ascending numeric scale from Levels 1-12 with SCQF Level 10 equating to a Scottish undergraduate Honours degree.
Credit Value – The total value of SCQF credits for the module. 20 credits are the equivalent of 10 ECTS credits. A full-time student should normally register for 60 SCQF credits per semester.
Disclaimer
We make every effort to ensure that the information on our website is accurate but it is possible that some changes may occur prior to the academic year of entry. The modules listed in this catalogue are offered subject to availability during academic year 2021/22 , and may be subject to change for future years.