PSY6482 - Changing the World

Objectives:

On successful completion of the module, students will be able to:
Apply psychological knowledge and understanding to a set of complex real-world problems;
Provide evidence-based plans for effecting positive change, bringing to bear a range of psychological literacy skills;
Work as an effective team member to take on team roles, contribute to discussion and plan and be aware of interdependence with others in the learning process.

Content:

This module focuses on the application of knowledge and understanding of psychology to real-world problems and the development of evidence-based solutions in order to effect positive change.

Drawing on their own psychological literacy, students will work in groups to bring to bear concepts from such areas as community psychology, environmental psychology, cross-cultural and international psychology to demonstrate how they can change the world for the better.

Problem scenarios to be explored might include such topics as bullying at school or in the workplace; building relationships between individuals and community groups; promoting participation and diversity within organisations or communities; advising individuals or groups how to change their environment so that it becomes more stimulating and less stressful; how to use psychology to encourage a positive relationship between individuals and the natural world; promoting social change; encouraging healthy behaviours; tackling social isolation.

The aim is to provide a rich and engaging variety of topic areas. There will also be scope for students to select their own broad areas of interest.

Learning and Teaching Information:

This module will be delivered through problem-based learning. Students will work in small groups, facilitated by a tutor with whom they will have weekly contact.

Workshops 30
Guided independent study (Balancing figure) 170

As this module is based upon problem-based learning, the learning resources will largely be determined by students as they work to address the problems set.

Further details relating to assessment
The forms of assessment will be negotiated by students in their groups. As this is a problem-based learning module, students may deliver their outputs in whatever form they feel is most effective for the specific problem in hand.

The assessments will be group assessments but there will be an individual assessed element, so that the grade is not entirely determined by the group as a whole.