What will I learn?
Through studying this course, you will develop the following:
- an understanding of the biological, cognitive and sociocultural factors affecting mental processes and behaviour.
- an ability to apply an understanding of the biological, cognitive and sociocultural factors affecting mental processes and behaviour to at least one applied area of study.
- an ability to understand diverse methods of inquiry.
- an understanding of the importance of ethical practice in psychological research in general and observe ethical practice in your own inquiries.
- the ability to ensure that ethical practices are upheld in all psychological inquiry and discussion.
- an awareness of how psychological research can be applied to address real world problems and promote positive change.
- an ability to critically reflect on the evidence as well as assist in the design, implementation, analysis and evaluation of your own investigation
- an understanding of contemporary real-world issues such as war and conflict, the environment, poverty, injustice, and human rights.
- critical thinking skills and application.
- an ability to explore the characteristics and complexities of social and cultural life and develop new ways of thinking about the world that demonstrate the interconnectedness of local, regional and global processes and issues.
- the capacity to foster an awareness of how cultural and social contexts inform the production of anthropological knowledge.
What is the structure of the course?
Higher Level
Standard Level
Part 1: Engaging with Psychological Approaches
As SL with extensions
- The Biological Approach
- The Cognitive Approach
- The Sociocultural Approach
- Research Methodology
Part 2: Engaging with Applied Psychology
- HL – One from each of the below three groups plus one additional
- SL – One from each of the below three groups
- Abnormal Psychology
- Developmental Psychology
- Health Psychology
- Psychology of Human Relationships
Part 3: Coursework
Experimental Study
Demonstrate the skills and knowledge acquired through the study of Psychology. Plan and implement a research project. Through the application of the science-practitioner model, develop a hypothesis; conduct an experiment; collect and analyse the data; report and discuss the findings.
How will I be assessed?
Assessment
Higher Level
Standard Level
Research Project
A report on an experimental study undertaken by the student (20%)
A report on an experimental study undertaken by the student (25%)
Final
Examination
Paper 1 – 2 hours (40%)
Paper 2 – 2 hours (20%)
Paper 3 – 1 hour (20%)
Paper 1 – 2 hours (50%)
Paper 2 – 1 hour (25 %)
Frequently Asked Questions
Which CAS opportunities are available?
MOOC courses. Debating Club. Seminars.
Which opportunities for further study are available?
Studying Psychology will open the doors to many fascinating and rewarding careers, with the opportunity to study further. Psychology prepares you for any university course that requires students to possess analytical skills; be critical thinkers; and understand the behaviour of people in real life situations. You would be well prepared for an undergraduate degree in Psychology, and it is appropriate to a range of careers , such as: academic research, counselling, education, wellbeing, clinical psychology, midwifery, and other allied health services.
For more information on careers related to Psychology visit the British Psychological Society at www.bps.org.uk/career-options-psychology.
Is there anything else I need to know?
This course will engage you in concepts, methods, theories, in addition to real life application. At the heart of the subject is the practice of psychologists, who through a wide range of specialisms help people understand why they think, feel and behave the way they do. From a personal perspective you will gain a better understanding of yourself. Through insights into motivation, mental processes, and how you interact with others in social groups and situations, you will gain a better understanding of why you behave the way you do.