University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 10

ECTS credits : 5

Level : SCQF level 9

Semester: 2

Availability restrictions: Available to General Degree students with permission of the Psychology Honours Adviser

Planned timetable: Lectures: 9.00 am - 11.00 am Tue. 1-hour Workshop: one of Tue 2-3, 3-4, 4-5 (Module runs in weeks 1 - 5 only)

This module explores several major themes and debates in social psychology, the central one being the nature of the relationship between individuals and groups. We will be looking in depth at the ways in which human experience and behaviour is shaped by social groups, and how this helps us to understand a range of behaviours. A variety of methodological approaches theoretical perspectives on these topics will be examined in order to develop your understanding of the field and your ability to evaluate social psychological research critically. We will examine strengths and limitations of different approaches, introduce current debates in the literature, and link theoretical knowledge to current events.

Relationship to other modules

Pre-requisite(s): Before taking this module you must pass PN2002

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 1 x 2-hour lecture and 1 x 1-hour laboratory class or seminar (Weeks 1 - 5)

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: 1.5-hour Written Examination = 100%


Re-assessment: 1.5-hour Written Examination = 100%

Personnel

Module coordinator: Dr S D Pehrson
Module teaching staff: Dr Samuel Pehrson
Module coordinator email sdp21@st-andrews.ac.uk

Intended learning outcomes

• develop a detailed understanding of the different social psychological approaches to social issues
• demonstrate an awareness of the strengths and limitations of each of these approaches, and understanding of
• demonstrate critical handling of primary source material; ability to evaluate complex and conflicting
• demonstrate an understanding of application of multiple perspectives to psychological phenomena
• demonstrate an ability to think about psychological phenomena at multiple levels of analysis; sensitivity to individual, interpersonal, intergroup, and contextual factors
• demonstrate an awareness of the relationship between psychological theory and social issues, and ability to