Module Catalogue 2024/25

Pre Requisite Comment

None

Co Requisite Comment

None

Aims

To introduce students to the broad aims and methods of social psychological research. In the process of doing this, students are introduced to the major research methods and theories in social psychology

Outline Of Syllabus

This module provides an introduction to Social psychology focuses on adult social behaviour. Within the realm of social psychology, the student is introduced to major areas of research and theory including impression formation and stereotypes, the power of social influence and conformity, interactions in and between groups.. Examples of classic social psychological research are provided as well as a discussion of other research methods typically used by social psychologists.

The aim of both areas of the course is to provide a foundation for modules in future years of the degree.

Indicative content that the sessions may cover:

The Self and Self-concept
Social Cognitions
Social influences Intra-group behaviour
Inter-group behaviour

Intended Knowledge Outcomes

At the end of the module students will be able to:

1. Describe one or more core content areas in social psychology e.g. impression formation, stereotypes or
prejudice
2. Describe what is meant by The Self and Self Concept
3. Explain social influence including compliance, conformity & obedience
4. Describe and discuss Intra- and Inter-Group Behaviour

Intended Skill Outcomes

Development of skills and insight into processes involved in accurately interpreting the results of and social psychological experiments, as well as the steps involved in constructing suitable experimental designs for examining particular research questions. Improved observational skills and analysis of social behaviour.

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

Lectures will provide the framework for introducing core concepts in and social psychology. During the session students will be encouraged to interact with each other through the use of discussion exercises and short tasks. Video footage of studies will be used to show research in practice and to demonstrate theoretical aspects.
There will be Question and Answer sessions related to the lecture materials.
Lectures will include PowerPoint presentation and oral commentary. Private and self-study, using the recommended text will provide further depth of understanding.

MCQ questions set at the end of lectures will provide students the opportunity for formative practice of knowledge learning outcomes.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The Digital exam will involve students answering a series of multiple choice questions. At the introductory level of social psychology, it is essential for students to have a broad knowledge base upon which they develop deeper insight and understanding of psychological research in the subsequent stages of the degree. The exam has therefore been designed to assess students for their breadth of understanding of the course material, but also a certain level of depth.


FMS Schools offering Semester One modules available as ‘Study Abroad’ will, where required, provide an alternative assessment time for examinations that take place after the Christmas vacation. Coursework with submissions dates after the Christmas vacation will either be submitted at an earlier date or at the same time remotely.

If the module is failed students will resit failed assessments in the same format during the August resit period.

General Notes

N/A