PSYCHOLOGY

What is the course about?
Psychology is the study of human mind and behaviour. We look particularly at twenty pieces of psychological research in Year 12. This research covers a wide range of topics, for example: Eyewitness memory, obedience to authority, brain activity and behaviour. In Year 13 you study the application of psychology to different areas such as health, the work place and crime.

Which skills and/experience would be useful or essential?
A genuine sense of curiosity about human behaviour. An ability to express yourself clearly in speech and writing. A reasonable level of numeracy and ability to ‘read’ and produce visual displays such as tables and graphs. A willingness to share your ideas. The ability to work effectively alone or in a group.

How will I learn and be assessed?
You will learn from a range of activities: traditional lectures, student presentations, creating visuals displays, conducting practical investigations, participating in role play.

You will be assessed by regular questioning in class, written homework exercises, observation of your practical research skills and three one hour examinations all taken in May/June of year 12.

What opportunities are available to me?
Studying A level psychology should allow you to develop various skills: report writing, presentation & interpreting data, writing and articulating persuasive arguments and hopefully you will develop some insights into human motivation and behaviour. Such skills are valuable in any work context and perhaps particularly so in careers which involve working with people. You may of course be so enthusiastic about psychology that you wish to continue your studies at university and become a psychologist. Primarily, psychologists work in research and clinical settings, in education, sport, advertising and occupational contexts.