Psychology

Course summary

The Psychology curriculum allows core areas in the history and development of psychology to be studied and offers different perspectives into the explanations of the human mind and behaviour. Psychology encourages skills to be developed that focus heavily on developing an insight into the methodological strengths and weaknesses of research, and critical analysis of theories, which are useful life skills which can be transferred into the workplace. The knowledge gained will help students to develop into well-rounded adults, with an understanding of the causes of mental health issues, how to be responsible parents, when to conform and obey others, and what triggers aggression. Psychology is the academic and scientific study of the brain, mind, and behaviour. The role of biology, upbringing and culture on behaviour will be explored, and you will gain a greater understanding of why people act the way that they do. Excursions offered to psychology students include attending educational conferences with guest speakers in psychology and also visiting Auschwitz concentration camp in Krakow, Poland, where psychological research about the dangers of ‘blind’ obedience is explored. Typical lessons include a range of activities where students work independently and collaboratively with others completing mini whiteboard tasks, exam questions and quizzes, for example. All lessons involve students being active participants in their learning by taking part in class discussions and sharing thoughts and opinions about topics studied.