PC6056 - Work Psychology (2020/21)
| Module specification | Module approved to run in 2020/21 | ||||||||||
| Module title | Work Psychology | ||||||||||
| Module level | Honours (06) | ||||||||||
| Credit rating for module | 15 | ||||||||||
| School | School of Social Sciences | ||||||||||
| Total study hours | 150 | ||||||||||
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| Assessment components |
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| Running in 2020/21(Please note that module timeslots are subject to change) |
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Module summary
Students will gain a critical understanding of a range of theories, models, applied research and application within work and organisational contexts. They will work with organisational case studies and problem-based contexts, and thereby develop skills in applying psychological knowledge to the understanding of client needs and learn to provide solutions to address work problems, taking into account aspects of ethics and safety. In covering the five content areas of occupational psychology, as defined by the BPS, students will have an enhanced opportunity to enter related postgraduate studies – e.g., business psychology or occupational psychology. To enhance employability skills, students are presented with mini project-based learning opportunities followed by group presentations. Specifically, business related case studies are provided necessitating self-managed problem solving within groups. Students are thus given the opportunities to take effective and appropriate action, work effectively with others and develop self-management skills.
Prior learning requirements
PC5005
Syllabus
The Work Psychology topics will be drawn from the 5 content domains as defined by the BPS standards for programmes in Occupational Psychology: learning, training & development; leadership, engagement & motivation; well-being & work; work design, organisational change & development; psychological assessment at work.
LO1 - LO4
Balance of independent study and scheduled teaching activity
Acquisition of knowledge of the subject matter of this module will be promoted through tutor-led lectures and workshops (36 hours) and through the guided use of student-centred learning resources (114 hours) with self managed time and private study. Learning materials and formative assessments will be delivered via WebLearn.
Learning outcomes
On successful completion of the module students will be able to:
1. Identify and describe key theories and applied models in work/organisational psychology;
2. Use relevant research studies to evaluate the theories and models in (1), including their applicability and application to work contexts;
3. Develop and apply acceptable solutions for organisations by application of analytical skills and synthesis of psychology theory and established practise.
4. Develop personal strengths and clarify personal weaknesses through personal development planning and reflective learning of applied work.
Assessment strategy
The module is assessed via a coursework assignment (consisting of a literature review, a practical applied section, and reflective log) of 2500-3000 words (excluding references). Formative assessments and constructive feedback will be provided throughout the module to help to prepare students for the summative assessment. A minimum grade of 40% on the summative assessment is required to pass the module.
Bibliography
Core
Arnold, J., et al. (2016). Work psychology (6th Edition). London: Pearson.
Additional
Lewis, R. & Zibarras, L. (2013). Work and occupational psychology: Integrating theory and practice. London: Sage.
Sutton, A. (2015). Work psychology in action. London: Palgrave Macmillan.