Module Code - Title:
PS4042
-
PSYCHOLOGY: THEORY AND METHOD 2
Year Last Offered:
2025/6
Hours Per Week:
Grading Type:
N
Prerequisite Modules:
Rationale and Purpose of the Module:
The primary aim of the module is to cover the main concepts, theories, methods and debates in the core areas of cognitive psychology and developmental psychology.
Syllabus:
This module is the second of two modules that provide coverage of the main paradigms, concepts, issues, and debates within the core areas of psychology. The section on cognitive psychology will cover the basic cognitive models of perception, attention and memory. The section detailing developmental psychology will cover the main theoretical approaches to the study of human development from prenatal and childhood biological development to theories of socio-emotional development across the lifespan. The key debate of the utility and limitations of the metaphor of 'the brain as information processor' will be common to both areas.
Learning Outcomes:
Cognitive (Knowledge, Understanding, Application, Analysis, Evaluation, Synthesis)
On successful completion of this module, students will be able to:
1. Explain the principles of research ethics and experimental design
2. Evaluate the key cognitive and developmental theories in psychology for understanding human behaviour
3. Analyse the advantages and limitations of different methods of investigation commonly used by researchers in cognitive and developmental psychology.
Affective (Attitudes and Values)
Affective (Attitudes and Values)
On successful completion of this module, students will be able to:
1. Defend how cognitive and developmental psychology are relevant to human behaviour
2. Value the strengths of experimental design for psychological research
3. Acknowledge the limitations of cognitive and developmental theories and methods for explaining human behaviour
Psychomotor (Physical Skills)
N/A
How the Module will be Taught and what will be the Learning Experiences of the Students:
Students will become knowledgeable about major theories and methods used in cognitive psychology and developmental psychology through weekly lectures. They will be encouraged to learn proactively through independent study and enquiry. This module will particularly encourage students to articulate and defend their opinion during tutorial discussions. By learning to propose alternative research designs, students will develop their creativity and critical thinking skills.
Research Findings Incorporated in to the Syllabus (If Relevant):
Prime Texts:
Goldstein, E.B., & van Hooff, H. (2021)
Cognitive Psychology
, Cengage
Feldman, R.S. (2013)
Life Span Development: A Topical Approach
, Pearson
Other Relevant Texts:
Programme(s) in which this Module is Offered:
BAPSSOUFA - PSYCHOLOGY AND SOCIOLOGY
BSPSYCUFA - PSYCHOLOGY
Semester(s) Module is Offered:
Spring
Module Leader:
aisling.odonnell@ul.ie