PY0300 - Classic Studies that Shaped Psychology

On this module you will learn by engaging in interactive seminars which focus on problem-based learning, along with directed study and independent study. The interactive seminars will typically involve a tutor-led discussion of classic studies and concepts where you will be introduced to key concepts, and a task or problem to work on (either individually or working in a group). This interactive style of teaching is designed to ensure deep learning of material, as well as development and practice of the academic skills necessary to pursue a degree in psychology. Tutorials will be available to provide you with an opportunity to discuss topics with a member of the module staff.

You will also be encouraged to engage in directed study, such as:
• sourcing independent literature from key text books and academic journals to develop your understanding of the subject,
• working in groups to discuss pertinent issues including methodological and ethical factors
• consider alternative ways to conduct specific studies today
• work in groups to develop formative ‘pub-quiz’ style questions to enhance learning

The module will employ technology enhanced learning tools such as the eLearning Portal (an online application where you can access information about your programme and modules), electronic reading lists, lecture capture and online submission and feedback tools to support your learning.

You will be supported academically by your module tutor who will make a variety of resources available for you. The materials used in the taught sessions will be available to you via the eLearning Portal. These materials will include the PowerPoint slides, workshop materials and links to further reading. There will also be a variety of other resources available on the eLearning Portal that will support your studies. These include reading lists, activities, and videos. Discussion boards will also be available to you, allowing you to post questions and queries for other students and staff members to answer, this will enhance peer-support and collegiality. You will also be able to access recordings of some sessions via the eLearning Portal. Tutorials with staff can provide an opportunity for students to discuss issues related to the module

All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. The reading list for this module can be found at: http://readinglists.northumbria.ac.uk
(Reading List service online guide for academic staff this containing contact details for the Reading List team – http://library.northumbria.ac.uk/readinglists)

Knowledge & Understanding:
• KU1: Comprehend and recall essential facts relating to key studies in psychology

Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
• IPSA1: Show an ability to retrieve and comprehend relevant information from a range of sources e.g. the use of bibliographic resources to discuss, support and critique the evidence from specific research studies.

Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
• PVA1: Develop aptitude in the intellectual skills required to become a psychology undergraduate including, literature searches, critical thinking, and consideration of ethical issues associated with the classic studies discussed throughout the module.

Formative Assessment
Each week you will engage in tasks relating to the weekly topic, this might include bibliographic searches, group discussions, and development of pub-quiz style questions to enhance learning.

Summative Assessment
1-hour Multiple Choice Exam comprising of 50 questions (worth 100% of the module mark) (KU1; IPSA1; PVA1)

Feedback
Oral feedback will be provided on the formative tasks as they are undertaken.
Individual feedback on the exam will be provided online via the electronic submission portal. A summary of general feedback will also be provided on the eLP.

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On this module you will learn about many of the key concepts and studies that have influenced our formative understanding of Psychology as a subject, and importantly how we research psychological processes today. You will be encouraged to consider not only what we have learnt from these studies, but also how we have changed our approach to psychological research with time. As well as interactive tutor-directed learning, you will have the opportunity to work independently and in groups, sourcing independent literature to support the lecture content. Discussion and presentation of knowledge acquired from these guided-learning activities will enhance your understanding and critical evaluation of the subject. It will also help develop both your academic skills for the duration of your degree, and transferable skills that may be applied to future employment.