University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 30

ECTS credits : 15

Level : SCQF level 9

Semester: 2

Availability restrictions: Only available to those enrolling on the MA Combined Studies or already enrolled on the MA/BSc General degree taken in the evening.

Planned timetable: Lectures and seminars: Mondays 6.30-9

This module will take a theoretical approach to understanding key ideas at the heart of modern psychology. The aim here is to explore in detail several of the theoretical perspectives and approaches used in psychology to describe and explain human behaviour and mental processes. Students will explore how psychology approaches issues such as the nature of consciousness, defining and understanding 'normality' and 'abnormality' (from case studies to populations), the theory of mind, and the impact of evolution on the nature of being human. Current theories and debates will be studied from the perspective of individual staff members, and their research interests, within the School of Psychology. The focus will be on understanding concepts; the module is not intended to provide training in experimental psychology techniques or methodology.

Relationship to other modules

Pre-requisite(s): Before taking this module you must pass PS1901 and pass PS2901

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 1 x 2.5-hour session: lectures and practicals.

Scheduled learning hours: 36

Guided independent study hours: 264

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: Coursework = 100%

As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 0%
Practical examinations : 0%
Coursework: 100%

Re-assessment: Coursework = 100%, Re-assessment applies to failed components only

Personnel

Module coordinator: Dr M W Oram
Module teaching staff: Team taught
Module coordinator email mwo@st-andrews.ac.uk

Intended learning outcomes

• understand theoretical issues and challenges in different areas of psychology
• understand how to apply different levels of explanation in different areas of psychology
• critically evaluate published articles for their empirical content
• understand the role of different methodologies in research
• demonstrate ability to apply critical thinking in the written evaluation of existing scientific ideas, theories and findings