PSY10090 Introduction to Applied Psychology

Academic Year 2023/2024

The aim of this module is to provide students with an introduction to applied psychology by examining how psychology has used research to examine socially significant issues. A range of topics will be considered, for example video games and aggression, cheating in sport, bullying, self-esteem, wellbeing and dementia. The module will also use these topics to examine quantitative and qualitative research methods, and a key focus of the module is on supporting students to be confident consumers of research in journals and the popular media. Students should note that this module will include formal lectures, in-class small group workshops and a high level of participation is expected.

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Curricular information is subject to change

Learning Outcomes:

On completion of this module students should be able to:
- Describe and evaluate the application of psychological knowledge to specific issues.
- Identify the strengths and limitations of research in applied psychology.
- Critique research as it is presented in the popular media.

Indicative Module Content:

Video games and aggression - Quantitative research methods
Cheating in Sport - Qualitative research methods
Self/esteem/Bullying - Data collection techniques
Mental Health & Wellbeing - Ethical Issues in Research

Student Effort Hours: 
Student Effort Type Hours
Lectures

18
Small Group

2
Specified Learning Activities

40
Autonomous Student Learning

65
Total

125
Approaches to Teaching and Learning:
This module includes a number of approaches:
- The main method of delivery is lectures but these are interactive with questions used to engage the class
- Active learning - Students are encouraged to engage with relevant topic material in the popular media (Youtube videos, media reports, podcasts) and the bring their recommendations to the group
- Peer and group work - this module has a group work component where regular activities in class and outside class lead up to the completion of a formal group based assignment using peer and self evaluation as part of the assessment. 
Requirements, Exclusions and Recommendations

Not applicable to this module.


Module Requisites and Incompatibles
Incompatibles:
PSY10030 - History of Psychology


 
Assessment Strategy  
Description Timing Open Book Exam Component Scale Must Pass Component % of Final Grade
Assignment: Written assignment critically considering the representation of psychological research in the popular media Coursework (End of Trimester) n/a Graded No

60
Group Project: Students form a group with classmates, complete formative activities in advance of a formal group discussion-based task completed in class in Week 7. Week 7 n/a Alternative linear conversion grade scale 40% No

20
Assignment: Individual reflection on the content and process of the group work, submitted at the start of Week 8. Week 8 n/a Graded No

20

Carry forward of passed components
Yes
 
Resit In Terminal Exam
Autumn No
Please see Student Jargon Buster for more information about remediation types and timing. 
Feedback Strategy/Strategies

• Feedback individually to students, post-assessment
• Group/class feedback, post-assessment
• Peer review activities
• Self-assessment activities

How will my Feedback be Delivered?

Feedback on Mid-semester assignment only: The individual reflection element of the assignment includes a self and peer evaluation element which influences individuals grades. Qualitative group feedback is delivered in class based on broad patterns of performance in Week 9 to allow for students to consider the implications for the final assignment. Individual feedback (grade and qualitative feedback) is returned via Brightspace following this.

Name Role
Professor Suzanne Guerin Lecturer / Co-Lecturer
Timetabling information is displayed only for guidance purposes, relates to the current Academic Year only and is subject to change.
 
Spring
      
Lecture Offering 1 Week(s) - 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 30, 31, 32, 33 Fri 13:00 - 13:50
Lecture Offering 1 Week(s) - 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33 Tues 13:00 - 13:50
Spring