PSY4111 · Psychology foundations: The individual

Overview

In this unit you will explore the historical origins and evolution of psychology as a scientific endeavour and applied profession. Key areas of interest within psychology will be introduced, including: the neurobiological basis of behaviour, how we sense and perceive the world around us, learning, memory and the development and expression of personality. There will be a strong emphasis on acquiring skills of critical thinking and reasoning to locate, evaluate, and disseminate information central to the science and practice of psychology. The two introductory units, PSY4111 Psychology 1A and PSY4122 Psychology 1B, together develop a foundation for understanding the breadth of principles and skills that are fundamental to psychology.

Areas of study: Psychology

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook does not list a final examination among the assessment items. That is not a guarantee there is none.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

The Handbook lists no prerequisite, corequisite or prohibition for this unit.

Learning outcomes

1. Describe the impact of key events and theoretical perspectives in the evolution of psychology as a science and a profession.
2. Apply foundational concepts and theories from biological psychology, sensation and perception, learning, memory and personality to understand human psychology.
3. Critically analyse knowledge claims in the public media that relate to psychology.
4. Locate and synthesise information from multiple sources to construct a cohesive and compelling argument
5. Communicate effectively in a variety of formats using a range of digital technologies.
6. Reflect on experiences and learning during this unit to identify opportunities for personal and professional development.

Workload

You should expect to spend a minimum of 20 hours per week on this unit to achieve the learning outcomes. This time will cover: a) video lecture materials; b) synchronous & asynchronous discussion; c) synchronous web-based 'class-time' for skills-based activities; d) weekly readings; e) weekly skills-based assessment tasks; and f) content-based assessment, including revision and formative assessment. Each week there will be a one hour ‘Live class’, facilitated by your instructor. This will be followed by a live office hour, where you can ask questions and chat with your classmates and instructor about anything to do with the unit or psychology in general. There is also a 1 hour live chat with the Senior Instructor that you can attend each week for additional discussion and guidance.

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.