Skip to content

Module Catalogue

Breadcrumbs navigation

PS4094   Communicating Psychology and Neuroscience

Academic year(s): 2017-2018

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 15

ECTS credits : 7

Level : SCQF level 10

Semester: 2

Availability restrictions: Available only to students in the second year of the Honours programme.

Planned timetable: 11.00 am - 1.00 pm Mon

This module provides final year students within the School of Psychology and Neuroscience with first-hand experience of science communication through a series of expert led master-classes (e.g. Bright Club, BBC, print journalists, science bloggers), presentations and interaction with new media (e.g. podcasts, blogs, Twitter, FaceBook). This module will enable students to gain substantial experience of working to tight deadlines, evaluating how the media translates psychological/neuroscience findings and of communicating complex ideas at various different levels, including presenting work to the press, the public and school children. Topics covered may include: why scientists must communicate with the public; how psychology/neuroscience hits the headlines; evaluating media coverage; using new media to get the message across and designing a science exhibit. While of particular value to students aiming for a career in public engagement, these core skills are equally important for any career that requires good communication, including post-graduate study. In addition students will be required to monitor relevant periodicals and evaluate several new studies in psychology/neuroscience and so should expose students to the latest trends within the field.

Relationship to other modules

Pre-requisite(s): Before taking this module you must pass PS3021 or pass PN3313

Anti-requisite(s): You cannot take this module if you take ID4001 or take ID4002

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 2-hour lecture, plus office hour and occasional fieldwork.

Scheduled learning hours: 26

Guided independent study hours: 124

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%

Personnel

Module teaching staff: Dr K Spencer, Mr P L Gardner