PC5005 - Individual Differences and Social Psychology (2019/20)
| Module specification | Module approved to run in 2019/20 | ||||||||||||||||
| Module title | Individual Differences and Social Psychology | ||||||||||||||||
| Module level | Intermediate (05) | ||||||||||||||||
| Credit rating for module | 30 | ||||||||||||||||
| School | School of Social Sciences | ||||||||||||||||
| Total study hours | 300 | ||||||||||||||||
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| Assessment components |
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| Running in 2019/20(Please note that module timeslots are subject to change) |
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Module summary
The aims of this module are to provide students with an understanding of (1) key theories and models of personality and individual differences and related research; (2) key theories and models of social behaviour and related research; (3) how these areas can be scientifically investigated using appropriate research methodologies; (4) how knowledge of individual differences and social psychology can be applied to the ‘real-world’ and their relevance to a range of settings. This will develop students’ employability by providing a basis of knowledge and understanding which will be beneficial in future work and training (e.g. understanding interpersonal and intergroup relations). The module also fosters students’ knowledge of research methodology (e.g. psychometrics) and fosters skills in the development of psychological assessment, academic argument and critical evaluation.
Prior learning requirements
PC4006 Personality & Social Psychology (or equivalent)
Syllabus
Topics will be selected from the following broad areas:
Individual differences
Personality and its assessment; psychometrics; individual differences; personality disorders and mental illness; intelligence and its assessment LO1,LO3,LO4
Social psychology
Social cognition; impression formation and stereotyping; attribution theories; attitudes and their assessment; prejudice and discrimination; models of prejudice reduction. LO1,LO2,LO3,LO4
Balance of independent study and scheduled teaching activity
Students’ knowledge and understanding of the key concepts, theories and empirical evidence will be developed through lectures and small group discussions (81 hours) and through guided use of learning resources, included web-based material and independent study (219 hours).
Learning outcomes
On successful completion of this module students will:
1. Have knowledge and understanding of key theories of personality and individual differences and the extent to which they provide a comprehensive account of human behaviour.
2. Have knowledge and understanding of key theories relating to social behaviour and the relationship between individuals and society.
3. Be able to apply theory and methodology in these areas to real world settings, and in particular appreciate the potential strengths and limitations of methods of psychological assessment.
4. Be able to critically evaluate key concepts, theories and empirical work and debate the comparative merits of different types of explanation and methodology.
Assessment strategy
Summative assessment will be via a coursework essay of maximum 1500 words (30%), an MCQ test (30%) and a written end-of-module exam (40%). Formative assessment will be via a series of in class and online tests throughout the module.
Bibliography
CORE
Hogg, M.A. & Vaughan, G.M. (2013). Social psychology (7th edition). Harlow: Pearson.
Maltby, J. Day, L. & MacAskill, A. (2013) Personality, individual differences and intelligence. Second Edition. Prentice Hall: Harlow.
ADDITIONAL
Chamorro-Premuzic, T. (2013). Personality and individual differences (2nd edition). Oxford: Blackwell
Crisp, R., & Turner, R. (2013). Essential social psychology (2nd edition). Oxford: Blackwell
Rust, J., & Golombok, S. (1999). Modern psychometrics. London: Routledge.