Conceptual and Historical Issues in Psychology by Distance Learning

Code

PSGY4068

School

Psychology

Level

4

Credits

10

Semesters

Autumn UK

Summary

The focus of psychology is one of the most interesting phenomena in the universe: The human mind. Psychology is, in effect, an effort to explain the mind to the mind. But psychology hasn’t always existed. Where exactly did it come from? And what are the philosophical issues associated with this fascinating field? 

Those are the questions this module aims to answer. In doing so, it surveys some of the most influential ideas in intellectual history, including those of the Ancients Greeks, various medieval thinkers, and philosophers and scientists from the seventeenth century to today. 

Along the way, the module touches on some fascinating questions about the human mind. Is the mind something separate from the brain, or is it simply the activity of the brain? Is the mind a blank slate at birth, or do we have some innate knowledge or dispositions? Are humans naturally good or bad, peaceful, or violent? Do we have an unconscious mind, full of repressed memories and hidden desires – or is that just a psychological myth? Can we measure the mind, or should we just focus on behaviour? And what are some of the challenges and debates associated with the practice of psychology as a science?

Target Students

Students on the MSc Psychology Conversion by distance learning only

Classes

Student will engage in 1 hour of online working group discussion per week. Within these working groups, students will explore topics presented during the weekly lecture more deeply. Group discussions will be monitored by teaching faculty and will help students develop a deeper understanding of the topics presented, allow students to apply new knowledge, and help develop professional communication skills. Total amount of study time on this module, including self study and revision is recommended to be 100 hours.

Assessment

• 33% Exam 1 (0-hour-30-minute): ExamSys Exam.
• 67% Exam 2 (1-hour): Seen Essay exam - 1500 words.

Assessed by end of autumn semester

Educational Aims

Learning Outcomes

Knowledge and Understanding
i.   Understand the conceptual, historical, and scientific underpinnings of psychology as a discipline
ii.   Recognise the inherent variability and diversity in the theoretical approaches to psychology, including Freudian, behaviourist, cognitive, evolutionary, and qualitative approaches
iii.   Demonstrate a good knowledge and critical understanding of the impact of history, social forces, and culture on psychological theories

Intellectual Skills
i.   Reason scientifically and demonstrate the relationship between theory and evidence
ii.   Can adopt multiple perspectives
iii.   Provide evidence-based reasoning to establish the merits of competing explanations
iv.   Produce written argument which shows critical appraisal and good understanding of the main issues central to the topics
v.   Develop a broader knowledge base of the student's studies via independent and appropriate reading

Transferable (key) Skills
i. Can communicate ideas and research findings both effectively and fluently
ii. Can solve problems by clarifying questions, considering alternative solutions, and evaluating outcomes
iii. Can undertake self-directed study to meet desired objectives
iv. Evidence of academic skills (essay writing, library research, independent study)
v. Demonstrate evidence-based analysis and critical appraisal
vi. Supply formal presentation and argument in analysis of evidence
vii. Produce well-organised and structured written work
viii. Work independently
ix. Present written argument in concise and time-restricted manner
 

Conveners

• Dr Alexander Coles