Psychology
School of Psychology
Faculty of Natural Sciences
Last Updated 2 October 2012

Principal Course Timetable Blocks 4


Psychology is a large and varied discipline concerned with the systematic study of behaviour and experience. The School of Psychology uses three main methods of tuition: lectures, seminars and practical classes. The balance between these methods varies from module to module. The staff involved in teaching Psychology are all mainstream, active researchers and their teaching areas reflect their research interests and expertise.

Most modules are assessed on the basis of essays or lab reports completed during the module (usually weighted at 40%) and an end of module examination (usually weighted at 60%). More information on courses and modules in Psychology can be found on their website..

Places on the optional third year modules (denoted by the letter O) are very limited, particularly for some modules. Also, because of timetabling constraints, the vast majority of these optional modules run at the same time and so students should only choose one of these modules. It is also important for students to be aware that these modules are specialised and extremely demanding. Due to these issues it is very important for students wishing to take any of the third year optional modules to contact the Subject Tutor in the first instance, before putting them on their Learning Agreement.

NB. Because of variations in staff availability and research interests from time to time, certain courses may not run in particular semesters. Erasmus, Exchange and Study Abroad students please confirm availability with the Department when applying.

Psychology Dual Honours - Level 1 Modules

Semester 1 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
PSY-10015 Research Methods 1 C M 7.5 15
This module provides an introduction to some of the basic research methods used in Psychology. During weekly lab classes students take part in a range of different studies. This gives students first hand experience of psychological research in action. It teaches students how to design and conduct psychological research in an ethical manner, analyse the data collected (by hand and using computers) and how to write up the findings of the research. An overview of each of the different statistical and qualitative techniques is given in the associated lecture each week. Students are required to take part in research studies conducted by members of staff, amounting to one and a half hours of research participation time. This aims to help students appreciate the subtleties of empirical design and procedure and it can also stimulate ideas for student research projects undertaken in subsequent modules. The module is assessed by a 2000 word lab report and a multiple choice exam (60% and 40% of the module mark respectively). Other forms of assessment provide opportunities for students to gain important feedback on their progress, i.e. a class test and a short lab report written in the first few weeks of the module.
PSY-10018 Individuals in Society 1 C M 7.5 15
This module considers how the person develops their place in society by examining child development; then by considering individual differences between people and finally, by considering how people relate to each other. These reflect three core areas of psychological knowledge: developmental psychology, individual differences and social psychology. Indicative topics in developmental psychology are social, moral development, language and cognitive development. Indicative topics in Individual differences are intelligence, psychodynamic, humanistic, trait and behavioural / cognitive views of personality. Indicative topics in social psychology are social influence and small group processes, prejudice, attitudes, prosocial behaviour and interpersonal relationships.
Semester 2 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
PSY-10016 Research Methods 2 C M 7.5 15
This module develops student understanding of psychological research methods. It builds on content taught in semester 1, introducing more sophisticated experimental designs, specifically where there are more than two conditions. Appropriate statistical techniques for analysing data from such designs - Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and its non-parametric equivalents - are introduced. Doing research and designing one's own investigations can be really challenging, interesting and enjoyable. We hope that we will successfully convince students of this during the module.
PSY-10017 Biological and Cognitive Psychology 1 C M 7.5 15
No prior knowledge of psychology is required in order to study this module in which students explore biological psychology (e.g., how neurons transmit information), perception (e.g., how we make sense of the visual world), learning (e.g., how behaviour is conditioned) and memory (e.g., what sort of memory problems are faced by amnesic patients).

Psychology Dual Honours - Level 2 Modules

Semester 1 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
PSY-20006 Psychology - Study Abroad I EP C 7.5 15
This is a module that is automatically allocated to the records our Keele level II students who are going to Study Abroad at a partner University for a semester of their second year and cannot be selected by any other level II students.
PSY-20007 Psychology - Study Abroad II EP C 7.5 15
This is a module that is automatically allocated to the records our Keele level II students who are going to Study Abroad at a partner University for a semester of their second year and cannot be selected by any other level II students.
+ PSY-20012 Developmental and Social Psychology C M 7.5 15
Students wishing to take this module must first complete Year 1 module $ùIndividuals and Society 1&©. PSY20012 builds and extends students&© knowledge and understanding of theory and research in key areas of Developmental and Social Psychology. Students will study detailed and specific examples of research examining aspects of human development: for example, looking at children&©s earliest understanding of objects and events, language, self and others; describing how patterns of play and relationships develop from childhood to late adulthood. In Social Psychology, topics will explore how both internal and external factors shape people&©s understanding and explanations of their social world and look at psychological explanations for attitudes and behaviour that occur within and between groups. This module is an essential component of the Keele Undergraduate Psychology degree for students wishing to achieve the Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership of the British Psychological Society.
# PSY-20013 Survey and Qualitative Research Methods C C 7.5 15
This module aims to advance understanding of survey and qualitative research methods used in Psychology and builds on the content of the first year research methods modules. The module is split into two main components with weekly lectures and lab classes. First, qualitative research methods are covered, including a range of data collection methods (e.g. interview and focus groups) and different approaches to data analysis (e.g. IPA, narrative analysis, discourse analysis). Students then turn their attention to the issue of questionnaire development, including item generation, hands on data collection, and item analysis (e.g. reliability analyses and factor analysis) using SPSS.
Semester 2 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
+ PSY-20005 Biological Psychology, Perception and Cognition C M 7.5 15
Students wishing to take this module must first complete Year 1 module $ùBiological and Cognitive Psychology I&©. This year 2 module builds upon and extends students&© knowledge and understanding of key issues in the study of the biological basis of behaviour and cognitive processes. Students study cognitive processes such as human learning, language skills such as reading, memory and false memory. Later in the module, students study core underlying biological structures such as the central nervous system and visual system as well as exploring what psychopharmacological approaches can reveal about normal and abnormal behaviour and being introduced to neuropsychology and issues such as the biology of sex, sleep and hormones. This module is an essential component of the Keele Undergraduate Psychology degree for students wishing to achieve the Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership of the British Psychological Society (GBC).
PSY-20018 Cognitive and Biological Research Methods in Psychology C M 7.5 15
This exciting module will present students with an opportunity to study cutting-edge research methods applied by psychologists to investigate human behaviour. Techniques are drawn from across the discipline of Psychology, and range from functional brain imaging to the application of inferential statistics.

Psychology Dual Honours - Level 3 Modules

Semester 1 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
# PSY-30011 Social Development O M 7.5 15
This final year special option module builds on what you have studied on developmental psychology in the first and second year and focuses on social development. The module aims to develop skills in evaluating current research in social development. The content of the module varies from year to year as students are encouraged to make decisions on what topics they wish to explore. Core material is also provided which, in the past, has included: the development of a child&©s attachments with adults, the development of peer relationships (including friendship), peer aggression, and the social development of children with autistic spectrum disorder. Topics chosen by students in the past have included the influence of the following on social development: shyness, siblings; the family; Down&©s Syndrome; child care; play; and gender differences in social development. This module will be of particular interest to students wishing to pursue a career working with children including school teaching, childhood clinical psychology and educational psychology.
# PSY-30018 Disclosure Processes in Children and Adolescents O E 7.5 15
Disclosure processes comprises the revealing of personal information and perceptions of it. Disclosure processes play a pivotal role in the major problems (e.g., sexual abuse and AIDS) faced by people and in their development of close relationships. This module provides students with a comprehensive review of the theory, research and design on disclosure processes during childhood and adolescence. The module includes discussions of display rules, friendship, parent-child relationships, sexual abuse and mental health. Module performance is assessed by a class presentation and an exam. The module will help to increase students&© numerical and linguistic skills and to prepare them for the fields of developmental psychology, social psychology, clinical psychology, and educational psychology.
# PSY-30031 Thinking about knowledge and the mind O C 7.5 15
Is it okay for people to think different things? How do we know who to believe? What count as good reasons to hold a belief? How certain can we be? For many of the most important issues we face in everyday life these are the kind of questions which arise. This module looks at how our ability to respond to such questions develops with age, from early childhood through to adulthood, based upon our developing understanding of the nature of knowledge and beliefs. The module will cover research which has examined the understanding that humans and other animals have about minds; the development of children's understanding of the mind; atypical development in autistic spectrum disorder (ASD); and how children and adults approach uncertainty in different contexts.
# PSY-30041 Peer Relationships in Childhood & Adolescence O M 7.5 15
The aim of the module is for students to develop a critical understanding of current research into the problematic nature of children&©s peer relationships. Topics include: peer rejection and friendship, cyberbullying, the links between peer victimisation and psychosocial maladjustment, characteristics of victims and bullies, the role of parents, teachers, and the wider peer group, and anti-bullying interventions. The module builds on topics introduced in year 2 on children&©s peer relationships more broadly. Students who are thinking of a career in teaching or with children often choose this module.
# PSY-30043 Research in Music Psychology O C 7.5 15
This module introduces students to the subject area of music psychology and to key approaches to research in this field, drawing on a range of existing studies at the forefront of the discipline. It is a highly practical module where students both participate in and design and conduct their own innovative group research studies in a range of topic areas at the core of the discipline. These include the effects of music on emotion, memory, and concentration, strong experiences of music, motivation for music, and other aspects of musical biography, preferred music and personality. The module develops students' understanding of research methods in psychology and enables them to apply this to a specific field, practising specific skills of analysis and presentation of findings in different written media. Students will be expected to participate fully in the research projects of themselves and other class members and 10% of the module is awarded for contribution to project work. Remaining assessments include an individual written critique of the research in the chosen topic area (60%) and a group poster presentation of the findings of the research (30%).
# PSY-30060 Ecopsychology O C 7.5 15
With climate change, concerns about food and farming, species reduction, and the need to have a healthy diet hot topics in the media, it seems important that psychologists should be involved. This level 3 module, offered as an elective to level 3 psychology undergraduate students and Masters students, introduces the relatively new subject area of ecopsychology, which explores our attitudes, knowledge and behaviour to the world around us. We usually visit local farms offering care services or community engagement ("care farms"), and have visiting speakers as well as input from the module tutor; but students t seem gain most from their participation in team action-research mini-projects completed during the module. Something to look back on with satisfaction, as well as to include in the CV!
# PSY-30068 Cognitive Neuropsychology O M 7.5 15
This module is essential for anyone with an interest in the workings of the brain and the cognitive structure of the mind. It provides a fascinating insight into the sorts of remarkable deficits that can follow brain injury or dysfunction such as prosopagnosia (inability to recognise familiar faces, even the patient&©s own face), the capgras delusion (delusional belief that a close relative has been replaced by an imposer) and amnesia.
# PSY-30072 Behaviour Analysis in Clinical Psychology O M 7.5 15
To develop students&© knowledge and understanding of the influence of the experimental analysis of behaviour and of contemporary applied behaviour analysis in clinical settings. Students will draw on experimental and applied studies in exploring clinical problems such as substance abuse, autistic spectrum conditions and challenging behaviour. Central to the module is an appreciation of the importance of the therapeutic relationship and acceptance based models in clinical practice.
PSY-30075 Group dynamics O E 7.5 15
This module looks at small group research in psychology, and how members join, interact with, and leave such groups. How do existing group members feel about newcomers? Do they welcome the change, or feel threatened by "newbies"? Does everyone in a group work towards the same goal, or do some people let everyone else do the work? How do initiation ceremonies work, and why are people willing to do strange and terrible things to join a club or society? Opening sessions will give an introduction to these topics. Subsequent sessions will involve a more in-depth examination of key areas, with the majority of the class involving student led discussions.
PSY-30077 Health Psychology O M 7.5 15
The pictures are on the packets, but why do people still smoke? Is there such a thing as a biological clock? Does our personality affect our health? These are the kinds of questions that health psychology asks, amongst many others. This diverse module will cover a range of learning activities that can help to answer such questions, and will provide you with valuable skills that can be applied academically and professionally within health psychology. Using a variety of assessment methods, you will gain knowledge of how high quality health research is presented and how it is filtered through to wider audiences. You will examine evidence within a health topic of your choice to understand how psychological issues mediate health behaviours, cognitions and social activities. This module is available as a special option for third years, and expands upon issues touched upon in our core modules (such as Individual Differences and Health). It will be extremely valuable for students wishing to undertake a health psychology dissertation, and also for those who are considering careers in academic research, health or clinical psychology.
PSY-30086 Critical psychology, globalization and human rights O C 7.5 15
Globalization has dramatically changed the way individuals, communities and nation states operate and interact. Its relevance to human behaviour and experience is worth examining, especially its impact on social identities, relationships and human rights. This course provides a unique opportunity for students to examine theories, issues, debates, and pedagogy associated with globalization and to contextualize these discussions within a critical psychology and human rights framework. To enhance the global student experience for this module, the course will be run in partnership with other universities from around the world, including Canada, Australia, Portugal, Russia, Mexico, Italy and USA. Using the internet and other technologies, students will work with peers from overseas to develop a case study to apply the theories discussed in class into practice. They will also engage in live and online discussions, thus providing students with the opportunity to look at these issues from different linguistic and cultural perspectives. More than 200 students from around the globe are anticipated to take part in this module this Fall 2012.
PSY-30088 Psychology of Task-Switching O C 7.5 15
This module will introduce students to the Psychology of Task-Switching. Topics guide students through a critique of the task-switching literature and its applications to our understanding of human multi-tasking. Students will identify and engage in a research question unaddressed by extant theory and design a proposal to test this question. Students will be required to critique their own work and that of others. Assessment is based upon "real-world" research criteria - such as peer-reviewing and presentations.
PSY-30092 Psychobiology O C 7.5 15
Does Red Bull give you wings? Does long term ecstasy use cause memory problems? Can music relieve pain? This third year special option module teaches the skills to answer these or similar questions depending on personal interest. Activities include mini-lectures, journal club seminars, independent study and class presentations leading to the production of a research proposal and a written consideration of peer-comments. Students research interesting topics with obvious everyday application and there is a focus on developing critical thinking skills. These skills may usefully be applied both to other areas of psychological study and to issues encountered more widely in work and life.
PSY-30094 Psychology of Addiction O C 7.5 15
Personality, emotions and decision making are all affected by the taking of psychoactive substances. Students will examine how psychoactive drugs interact with memory, intelligence, cognition, language, learning, spirituality and personality. The module will explore how people can become dependent on drugs and consider the role of psychological theories and therapies in preventing and treating drug addiction. This module will also expose students to a range of graduate attributes that include: an open and questioning approach to ideas, demonstrating curiosity, independence of thought and the ability to appreciate a range of perspectives on understanding internal processes and human behaviour. The ability to locate, evaluate and synthesise large amounts of frequently conflicting information, ideas and data. The ability to communicate clearly and effectively in written and verbal forms for different purposes.
Semester 1-2 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
# PSY-30061 Final Year Project (Double) - ISP C C 15 30
The Final Year Project module, which runs over Autumn and Spring Semesters, offers the opportunity to put into practice all the scholarship and research methods skills developed over the Psychology Course. Successful completion of the Final Year Project is also a prerequisite for eligibility for a British Psychological Society Chartered Degree. Students identify a supervisor from Psychology Academic Staff with specialist knowledge in an area in which they wish to conduct research. After consulting their supervisor, students design, conduct and write-up a piece of original empirical work. Students also construct a poster describing their research project and its progress at the end of the first semester. Project report and the poster marks contribute to the module assessment, while the academic, logical, numerical, IT, communication and organizational skills developed and practiced on this module are vital for postgraduate study in psychology and are held in high esteem by potential employers.
Semester 2 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
# PSY-30067 Individual Differences and Conceptual Issues C E 7.5 15
This module consists of two separate parts. The Conceptual and Historical Issues in Psychology section invites students to think about the importance of the discipline of Psychology in informing our understanding of what it is to be human and how this impacts on our understanding of everyday experiences. Key topics introduced include: the nature of science (and psychology), consciousness and cognition in human and non-human animals, the use of psychology for manipulation and control, community action and change, and understanding conflict and entrenched beliefs. The Personality and Individual Differences section discusses traditional and more modern approaches to the study of personality and intelligence. Topics include influence of gender and race on intelligence, psychodynamic approaches to Psychology, Personal Construct Theory, and individual differences in interpersonal relationships as well as physical and mental health.

Psychology Major - Level 1 Modules

Semester 1 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
PSY-10015 Research Methods 1 C M 7.5 15
This module provides an introduction to some of the basic research methods used in Psychology. During weekly lab classes students take part in a range of different studies. This gives students first hand experience of psychological research in action. It teaches students how to design and conduct psychological research in an ethical manner, analyse the data collected (by hand and using computers) and how to write up the findings of the research. An overview of each of the different statistical and qualitative techniques is given in the associated lecture each week. Students are required to take part in research studies conducted by members of staff, amounting to one and a half hours of research participation time. This aims to help students appreciate the subtleties of empirical design and procedure and it can also stimulate ideas for student research projects undertaken in subsequent modules. The module is assessed by a 2000 word lab report and a multiple choice exam (60% and 40% of the module mark respectively). Other forms of assessment provide opportunities for students to gain important feedback on their progress, i.e. a class test and a short lab report written in the first few weeks of the module.
PSY-10018 Individuals in Society 1 C M 7.5 15
This module considers how the person develops their place in society by examining child development; then by considering individual differences between people and finally, by considering how people relate to each other. These reflect three core areas of psychological knowledge: developmental psychology, individual differences and social psychology. Indicative topics in developmental psychology are social, moral development, language and cognitive development. Indicative topics in Individual differences are intelligence, psychodynamic, humanistic, trait and behavioural / cognitive views of personality. Indicative topics in social psychology are social influence and small group processes, prejudice, attitudes, prosocial behaviour and interpersonal relationships.
Semester 1-2 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
PSY-10022 Psychology and Community Action EP C 7.5 15
This module allows students to volunteer with charitable and community organisations in the local area and at the same time receive credit towards their degree. Working with the Voluntary Experience Office, students will identify a placement, contribute their hours to the organisation to an agreed plan, and reflect on their experiences in a structured diary. Volunteers will develop their own skills in a practical environment, and gain insights into the nature of the voluntary sector in contemporary society. In particular, they will reflect upon the contribution of psychology for enhancing the quality of life of individuals and community organisations.
Semester 2 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
PSY-10016 Research Methods 2 C M 7.5 15
This module develops student understanding of psychological research methods. It builds on content taught in semester 1, introducing more sophisticated experimental designs, specifically where there are more than two conditions. Appropriate statistical techniques for analysing data from such designs - Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and its non-parametric equivalents - are introduced. Doing research and designing one's own investigations can be really challenging, interesting and enjoyable. We hope that we will successfully convince students of this during the module.
PSY-10017 Biological and Cognitive Psychology 1 C M 7.5 15
No prior knowledge of psychology is required in order to study this module in which students explore biological psychology (e.g., how neurons transmit information), perception (e.g., how we make sense of the visual world), learning (e.g., how behaviour is conditioned) and memory (e.g., what sort of memory problems are faced by amnesic patients).

Psychology Major - Level 2 Modules

Semester 1 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
PSY-20006 Psychology - Study Abroad I EP C 7.5 15
This is a module that is automatically allocated to the records our Keele level II students who are going to Study Abroad at a partner University for a semester of their second year and cannot be selected by any other level II students.
PSY-20007 Psychology - Study Abroad II EP C 7.5 15
This is a module that is automatically allocated to the records our Keele level II students who are going to Study Abroad at a partner University for a semester of their second year and cannot be selected by any other level II students.
+ PSY-20012 Developmental and Social Psychology C M 7.5 15
Students wishing to take this module must first complete Year 1 module $ùIndividuals and Society 1&©. PSY20012 builds and extends students&© knowledge and understanding of theory and research in key areas of Developmental and Social Psychology. Students will study detailed and specific examples of research examining aspects of human development: for example, looking at children&©s earliest understanding of objects and events, language, self and others; describing how patterns of play and relationships develop from childhood to late adulthood. In Social Psychology, topics will explore how both internal and external factors shape people&©s understanding and explanations of their social world and look at psychological explanations for attitudes and behaviour that occur within and between groups. This module is an essential component of the Keele Undergraduate Psychology degree for students wishing to achieve the Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership of the British Psychological Society.
# PSY-20013 Survey and Qualitative Research Methods C C 7.5 15
This module aims to advance understanding of survey and qualitative research methods used in Psychology and builds on the content of the first year research methods modules. The module is split into two main components with weekly lectures and lab classes. First, qualitative research methods are covered, including a range of data collection methods (e.g. interview and focus groups) and different approaches to data analysis (e.g. IPA, narrative analysis, discourse analysis). Students then turn their attention to the issue of questionnaire development, including item generation, hands on data collection, and item analysis (e.g. reliability analyses and factor analysis) using SPSS.
Semester 2 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
+ PSY-20005 Biological Psychology, Perception and Cognition C M 7.5 15
Students wishing to take this module must first complete Year 1 module $ùBiological and Cognitive Psychology I&©. This year 2 module builds upon and extends students&© knowledge and understanding of key issues in the study of the biological basis of behaviour and cognitive processes. Students study cognitive processes such as human learning, language skills such as reading, memory and false memory. Later in the module, students study core underlying biological structures such as the central nervous system and visual system as well as exploring what psychopharmacological approaches can reveal about normal and abnormal behaviour and being introduced to neuropsychology and issues such as the biology of sex, sleep and hormones. This module is an essential component of the Keele Undergraduate Psychology degree for students wishing to achieve the Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership of the British Psychological Society (GBC).
PSY-20018 Cognitive and Biological Research Methods in Psychology C M 7.5 15
This exciting module will present students with an opportunity to study cutting-edge research methods applied by psychologists to investigate human behaviour. Techniques are drawn from across the discipline of Psychology, and range from functional brain imaging to the application of inferential statistics.

Psychology Major - Level 3 Modules

Semester 1 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
# PSY-30011 Social Development O M 7.5 15
This final year special option module builds on what you have studied on developmental psychology in the first and second year and focuses on social development. The module aims to develop skills in evaluating current research in social development. The content of the module varies from year to year as students are encouraged to make decisions on what topics they wish to explore. Core material is also provided which, in the past, has included: the development of a child&©s attachments with adults, the development of peer relationships (including friendship), peer aggression, and the social development of children with autistic spectrum disorder. Topics chosen by students in the past have included the influence of the following on social development: shyness, siblings; the family; Down&©s Syndrome; child care; play; and gender differences in social development. This module will be of particular interest to students wishing to pursue a career working with children including school teaching, childhood clinical psychology and educational psychology.
# PSY-30011 Social Development EP M 7.5 15
This final year special option module builds on what you have studied on developmental psychology in the first and second year and focuses on social development. The module aims to develop skills in evaluating current research in social development. The content of the module varies from year to year as students are encouraged to make decisions on what topics they wish to explore. Core material is also provided which, in the past, has included: the development of a child&©s attachments with adults, the development of peer relationships (including friendship), peer aggression, and the social development of children with autistic spectrum disorder. Topics chosen by students in the past have included the influence of the following on social development: shyness, siblings; the family; Down&©s Syndrome; child care; play; and gender differences in social development. This module will be of particular interest to students wishing to pursue a career working with children including school teaching, childhood clinical psychology and educational psychology.
# PSY-30018 Disclosure Processes in Children and Adolescents O E 7.5 15
Disclosure processes comprises the revealing of personal information and perceptions of it. Disclosure processes play a pivotal role in the major problems (e.g., sexual abuse and AIDS) faced by people and in their development of close relationships. This module provides students with a comprehensive review of the theory, research and design on disclosure processes during childhood and adolescence. The module includes discussions of display rules, friendship, parent-child relationships, sexual abuse and mental health. Module performance is assessed by a class presentation and an exam. The module will help to increase students&© numerical and linguistic skills and to prepare them for the fields of developmental psychology, social psychology, clinical psychology, and educational psychology.
# PSY-30018 Disclosure Processes in Children and Adolescents EP E 7.5 15
Disclosure processes comprises the revealing of personal information and perceptions of it. Disclosure processes play a pivotal role in the major problems (e.g., sexual abuse and AIDS) faced by people and in their development of close relationships. This module provides students with a comprehensive review of the theory, research and design on disclosure processes during childhood and adolescence. The module includes discussions of display rules, friendship, parent-child relationships, sexual abuse and mental health. Module performance is assessed by a class presentation and an exam. The module will help to increase students&© numerical and linguistic skills and to prepare them for the fields of developmental psychology, social psychology, clinical psychology, and educational psychology.
# PSY-30031 Thinking about knowledge and the mind O C 7.5 15
Is it okay for people to think different things? How do we know who to believe? What count as good reasons to hold a belief? How certain can we be? For many of the most important issues we face in everyday life these are the kind of questions which arise. This module looks at how our ability to respond to such questions develops with age, from early childhood through to adulthood, based upon our developing understanding of the nature of knowledge and beliefs. The module will cover research which has examined the understanding that humans and other animals have about minds; the development of children's understanding of the mind; atypical development in autistic spectrum disorder (ASD); and how children and adults approach uncertainty in different contexts.
# PSY-30031 Thinking about knowledge and the mind EP C 7.5 15
Is it okay for people to think different things? How do we know who to believe? What count as good reasons to hold a belief? How certain can we be? For many of the most important issues we face in everyday life these are the kind of questions which arise. This module looks at how our ability to respond to such questions develops with age, from early childhood through to adulthood, based upon our developing understanding of the nature of knowledge and beliefs. The module will cover research which has examined the understanding that humans and other animals have about minds; the development of children's understanding of the mind; atypical development in autistic spectrum disorder (ASD); and how children and adults approach uncertainty in different contexts.
# PSY-30041 Peer Relationships in Childhood & Adolescence O M 7.5 15
The aim of the module is for students to develop a critical understanding of current research into the problematic nature of children&©s peer relationships. Topics include: peer rejection and friendship, cyberbullying, the links between peer victimisation and psychosocial maladjustment, characteristics of victims and bullies, the role of parents, teachers, and the wider peer group, and anti-bullying interventions. The module builds on topics introduced in year 2 on children&©s peer relationships more broadly. Students who are thinking of a career in teaching or with children often choose this module.
# PSY-30041 Peer Relationships in Childhood & Adolescence EP M 7.5 15
The aim of the module is for students to develop a critical understanding of current research into the problematic nature of children&©s peer relationships. Topics include: peer rejection and friendship, cyberbullying, the links between peer victimisation and psychosocial maladjustment, characteristics of victims and bullies, the role of parents, teachers, and the wider peer group, and anti-bullying interventions. The module builds on topics introduced in year 2 on children&©s peer relationships more broadly. Students who are thinking of a career in teaching or with children often choose this module.
# PSY-30043 Research in Music Psychology O C 7.5 15
This module introduces students to the subject area of music psychology and to key approaches to research in this field, drawing on a range of existing studies at the forefront of the discipline. It is a highly practical module where students both participate in and design and conduct their own innovative group research studies in a range of topic areas at the core of the discipline. These include the effects of music on emotion, memory, and concentration, strong experiences of music, motivation for music, and other aspects of musical biography, preferred music and personality. The module develops students' understanding of research methods in psychology and enables them to apply this to a specific field, practising specific skills of analysis and presentation of findings in different written media. Students will be expected to participate fully in the research projects of themselves and other class members and 10% of the module is awarded for contribution to project work. Remaining assessments include an individual written critique of the research in the chosen topic area (60%) and a group poster presentation of the findings of the research (30%).
# PSY-30043 Research in Music Psychology EP C 7.5 15
This module introduces students to the subject area of music psychology and to key approaches to research in this field, drawing on a range of existing studies at the forefront of the discipline. It is a highly practical module where students both participate in and design and conduct their own innovative group research studies in a range of topic areas at the core of the discipline. These include the effects of music on emotion, memory, and concentration, strong experiences of music, motivation for music, and other aspects of musical biography, preferred music and personality. The module develops students' understanding of research methods in psychology and enables them to apply this to a specific field, practising specific skills of analysis and presentation of findings in different written media. Students will be expected to participate fully in the research projects of themselves and other class members and 10% of the module is awarded for contribution to project work. Remaining assessments include an individual written critique of the research in the chosen topic area (60%) and a group poster presentation of the findings of the research (30%).
# PSY-30060 Ecopsychology O C 7.5 15
With climate change, concerns about food and farming, species reduction, and the need to have a healthy diet hot topics in the media, it seems important that psychologists should be involved. This level 3 module, offered as an elective to level 3 psychology undergraduate students and Masters students, introduces the relatively new subject area of ecopsychology, which explores our attitudes, knowledge and behaviour to the world around us. We usually visit local farms offering care services or community engagement ("care farms"), and have visiting speakers as well as input from the module tutor; but students t seem gain most from their participation in team action-research mini-projects completed during the module. Something to look back on with satisfaction, as well as to include in the CV!
# PSY-30060 Ecopsychology EP C 7.5 15
With climate change, concerns about food and farming, species reduction, and the need to have a healthy diet hot topics in the media, it seems important that psychologists should be involved. This level 3 module, offered as an elective to level 3 psychology undergraduate students and Masters students, introduces the relatively new subject area of ecopsychology, which explores our attitudes, knowledge and behaviour to the world around us. We usually visit local farms offering care services or community engagement ("care farms"), and have visiting speakers as well as input from the module tutor; but students t seem gain most from their participation in team action-research mini-projects completed during the module. Something to look back on with satisfaction, as well as to include in the CV!
# PSY-30068 Cognitive Neuropsychology O M 7.5 15
This module is essential for anyone with an interest in the workings of the brain and the cognitive structure of the mind. It provides a fascinating insight into the sorts of remarkable deficits that can follow brain injury or dysfunction such as prosopagnosia (inability to recognise familiar faces, even the patient&©s own face), the capgras delusion (delusional belief that a close relative has been replaced by an imposer) and amnesia.
# PSY-30068 Cognitive Neuropsychology EP M 7.5 15
This module is essential for anyone with an interest in the workings of the brain and the cognitive structure of the mind. It provides a fascinating insight into the sorts of remarkable deficits that can follow brain injury or dysfunction such as prosopagnosia (inability to recognise familiar faces, even the patient&©s own face), the capgras delusion (delusional belief that a close relative has been replaced by an imposer) and amnesia.
# PSY-30072 Behaviour Analysis in Clinical Psychology O M 7.5 15
To develop students&© knowledge and understanding of the influence of the experimental analysis of behaviour and of contemporary applied behaviour analysis in clinical settings. Students will draw on experimental and applied studies in exploring clinical problems such as substance abuse, autistic spectrum conditions and challenging behaviour. Central to the module is an appreciation of the importance of the therapeutic relationship and acceptance based models in clinical practice.
PSY-30075 Group dynamics O E 7.5 15
This module looks at small group research in psychology, and how members join, interact with, and leave such groups. How do existing group members feel about newcomers? Do they welcome the change, or feel threatened by "newbies"? Does everyone in a group work towards the same goal, or do some people let everyone else do the work? How do initiation ceremonies work, and why are people willing to do strange and terrible things to join a club or society? Opening sessions will give an introduction to these topics. Subsequent sessions will involve a more in-depth examination of key areas, with the majority of the class involving student led discussions.
PSY-30075 Group dynamics EP E 7.5 15
This module looks at small group research in psychology, and how members join, interact with, and leave such groups. How do existing group members feel about newcomers? Do they welcome the change, or feel threatened by "newbies"? Does everyone in a group work towards the same goal, or do some people let everyone else do the work? How do initiation ceremonies work, and why are people willing to do strange and terrible things to join a club or society? Opening sessions will give an introduction to these topics. Subsequent sessions will involve a more in-depth examination of key areas, with the majority of the class involving student led discussions.
PSY-30077 Health Psychology O M 7.5 15
The pictures are on the packets, but why do people still smoke? Is there such a thing as a biological clock? Does our personality affect our health? These are the kinds of questions that health psychology asks, amongst many others. This diverse module will cover a range of learning activities that can help to answer such questions, and will provide you with valuable skills that can be applied academically and professionally within health psychology. Using a variety of assessment methods, you will gain knowledge of how high quality health research is presented and how it is filtered through to wider audiences. You will examine evidence within a health topic of your choice to understand how psychological issues mediate health behaviours, cognitions and social activities. This module is available as a special option for third years, and expands upon issues touched upon in our core modules (such as Individual Differences and Health). It will be extremely valuable for students wishing to undertake a health psychology dissertation, and also for those who are considering careers in academic research, health or clinical psychology.
PSY-30086 Critical psychology, globalization and human rights EP C 7.5 15
Globalization has dramatically changed the way individuals, communities and nation states operate and interact. Its relevance to human behaviour and experience is worth examining, especially its impact on social identities, relationships and human rights. This course provides a unique opportunity for students to examine theories, issues, debates, and pedagogy associated with globalization and to contextualize these discussions within a critical psychology and human rights framework. To enhance the global student experience for this module, the course will be run in partnership with other universities from around the world, including Canada, Australia, Portugal, Russia, Mexico, Italy and USA. Using the internet and other technologies, students will work with peers from overseas to develop a case study to apply the theories discussed in class into practice. They will also engage in live and online discussions, thus providing students with the opportunity to look at these issues from different linguistic and cultural perspectives. More than 200 students from around the globe are anticipated to take part in this module this Fall 2012.
PSY-30086 Critical psychology, globalization and human rights O C 7.5 15
Globalization has dramatically changed the way individuals, communities and nation states operate and interact. Its relevance to human behaviour and experience is worth examining, especially its impact on social identities, relationships and human rights. This course provides a unique opportunity for students to examine theories, issues, debates, and pedagogy associated with globalization and to contextualize these discussions within a critical psychology and human rights framework. To enhance the global student experience for this module, the course will be run in partnership with other universities from around the world, including Canada, Australia, Portugal, Russia, Mexico, Italy and USA. Using the internet and other technologies, students will work with peers from overseas to develop a case study to apply the theories discussed in class into practice. They will also engage in live and online discussions, thus providing students with the opportunity to look at these issues from different linguistic and cultural perspectives. More than 200 students from around the globe are anticipated to take part in this module this Fall 2012.
PSY-30088 Psychology of Task-Switching EP C 7.5 15
This module will introduce students to the Psychology of Task-Switching. Topics guide students through a critique of the task-switching literature and its applications to our understanding of human multi-tasking. Students will identify and engage in a research question unaddressed by extant theory and design a proposal to test this question. Students will be required to critique their own work and that of others. Assessment is based upon "real-world" research criteria - such as peer-reviewing and presentations.
PSY-30092 Psychobiology O C 7.5 15
Does Red Bull give you wings? Does long term ecstasy use cause memory problems? Can music relieve pain? This third year special option module teaches the skills to answer these or similar questions depending on personal interest. Activities include mini-lectures, journal club seminars, independent study and class presentations leading to the production of a research proposal and a written consideration of peer-comments. Students research interesting topics with obvious everyday application and there is a focus on developing critical thinking skills. These skills may usefully be applied both to other areas of psychological study and to issues encountered more widely in work and life.
PSY-30092 Psychobiology EP C 7.5 15
Does Red Bull give you wings? Does long term ecstasy use cause memory problems? Can music relieve pain? This third year special option module teaches the skills to answer these or similar questions depending on personal interest. Activities include mini-lectures, journal club seminars, independent study and class presentations leading to the production of a research proposal and a written consideration of peer-comments. Students research interesting topics with obvious everyday application and there is a focus on developing critical thinking skills. These skills may usefully be applied both to other areas of psychological study and to issues encountered more widely in work and life.
PSY-30094 Psychology of Addiction O C 7.5 15
Personality, emotions and decision making are all affected by the taking of psychoactive substances. Students will examine how psychoactive drugs interact with memory, intelligence, cognition, language, learning, spirituality and personality. The module will explore how people can become dependent on drugs and consider the role of psychological theories and therapies in preventing and treating drug addiction. This module will also expose students to a range of graduate attributes that include: an open and questioning approach to ideas, demonstrating curiosity, independence of thought and the ability to appreciate a range of perspectives on understanding internal processes and human behaviour. The ability to locate, evaluate and synthesise large amounts of frequently conflicting information, ideas and data. The ability to communicate clearly and effectively in written and verbal forms for different purposes.
PSY-30099 Key Readings in Cognitive Psychology C M 7.5 15
This module is an advanced course in cognitive psychology. It introduces key, seminal research papers in the field and develops the students' ability to critically review and evaluate research papers for themselves. Key papers presented throughout the course are analysed and presented alongside related research, subsequent developments and applications in the literature.
Semester 1-2 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
# PSY-30061 Final Year Project (Double) - ISP C C 15 30
The Final Year Project module, which runs over Autumn and Spring Semesters, offers the opportunity to put into practice all the scholarship and research methods skills developed over the Psychology Course. Successful completion of the Final Year Project is also a prerequisite for eligibility for a British Psychological Society Chartered Degree. Students identify a supervisor from Psychology Academic Staff with specialist knowledge in an area in which they wish to conduct research. After consulting their supervisor, students design, conduct and write-up a piece of original empirical work. Students also construct a poster describing their research project and its progress at the end of the first semester. Project report and the poster marks contribute to the module assessment, while the academic, logical, numerical, IT, communication and organizational skills developed and practiced on this module are vital for postgraduate study in psychology and are held in high esteem by potential employers.
PSY-30085 Special Topics in Psychology - ISP EP C 7.5 15
Students consider a particular area of psychological research and under the guidance of a research-active member of staff, they focus on a particular topic within this research area. Through seminar discussions and private study, students practise applying their skills to develop their own review and critique of the research topic.
PSY-30098 Mini-Project EP C 7.5 15
Students select and work under the supervision of a research-active member of academic staff. After discussion with their supervisor, students choose a research area and critically review the literature on a specific topic to develop hypotheses to test or research questions to address. The student then writes and submits a research proposal where hypotheses (or research questions) are detailed and the research method(s) and data analysis to be applied to test or address these hypotheses (or research questions) are explained. Prior to conducting any empirical work, the student also submits an application for ethical approval to the School of Psychology Research Ethics Panel. After the study is carried out, the student completes a research report in the style of a mainstream psychology journal. All of these activities provide valuable experience and insight of the work involved in carrying out and reporting psychological research.
Semester 2 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
# PSY-30029 Abnormal Psychology EP E 7.5 15
This module explores how different approaches to abnormal psychology have given rise to different explanations which in turn will impact on the various forms of treatments offered (from pharmacomanagement to counselling). The module will invite students to consider current approaches used in abnormal psychology to understand the development of psychopathologies such as schizophrenia.
# PSY-30067 Individual Differences and Conceptual Issues C E 7.5 15
This module consists of two separate parts. The Conceptual and Historical Issues in Psychology section invites students to think about the importance of the discipline of Psychology in informing our understanding of what it is to be human and how this impacts on our understanding of everyday experiences. Key topics introduced include: the nature of science (and psychology), consciousness and cognition in human and non-human animals, the use of psychology for manipulation and control, community action and change, and understanding conflict and entrenched beliefs. The Personality and Individual Differences section discusses traditional and more modern approaches to the study of personality and intelligence. Topics include influence of gender and race on intelligence, psychodynamic approaches to Psychology, Personal Construct Theory, and individual differences in interpersonal relationships as well as physical and mental health.
PSY-30097 Contemporary research in social psychology C C 7.5 15
The aim of this module is to develop students’ knowledge and understanding of advanced theoretical and methodological issues in contemporary social psychology. It will build on topics in social psychology introduced to students in previous years. Topics such as bullying, group processes, trust and social disadvantage will be covered - those that relate to staff areas of research expertise. Students will be encouraged to take concepts and ideas from one topic and apply it to another research area. A broad range of theories and methodologies will be covered, including advanced methods in quantitative and qualitative research. There will also be discussion of the practicalities of conducting research in social psychology, including discussion of ethics in applied research, impact and dissemination, working with schools and other organisations. Through doing this, students will also develop a greater insight into different career options in psychology and social research more broadly.

Psychology Minor - Level 1 Modules

Semester 1 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
PSY-10015 Research Methods 1 C M 7.5 15
This module provides an introduction to some of the basic research methods used in Psychology. During weekly lab classes students take part in a range of different studies. This gives students first hand experience of psychological research in action. It teaches students how to design and conduct psychological research in an ethical manner, analyse the data collected (by hand and using computers) and how to write up the findings of the research. An overview of each of the different statistical and qualitative techniques is given in the associated lecture each week. Students are required to take part in research studies conducted by members of staff, amounting to one and a half hours of research participation time. This aims to help students appreciate the subtleties of empirical design and procedure and it can also stimulate ideas for student research projects undertaken in subsequent modules. The module is assessed by a 2000 word lab report and a multiple choice exam (60% and 40% of the module mark respectively). Other forms of assessment provide opportunities for students to gain important feedback on their progress, i.e. a class test and a short lab report written in the first few weeks of the module.
PSY-10018 Individuals in Society 1 C M 7.5 15
This module considers how the person develops their place in society by examining child development; then by considering individual differences between people and finally, by considering how people relate to each other. These reflect three core areas of psychological knowledge: developmental psychology, individual differences and social psychology. Indicative topics in developmental psychology are social, moral development, language and cognitive development. Indicative topics in Individual differences are intelligence, psychodynamic, humanistic, trait and behavioural / cognitive views of personality. Indicative topics in social psychology are social influence and small group processes, prejudice, attitudes, prosocial behaviour and interpersonal relationships.
Semester 2 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
PSY-10016 Research Methods 2 C M 7.5 15
This module develops student understanding of psychological research methods. It builds on content taught in semester 1, introducing more sophisticated experimental designs, specifically where there are more than two conditions. Appropriate statistical techniques for analysing data from such designs - Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and its non-parametric equivalents - are introduced. Doing research and designing one's own investigations can be really challenging, interesting and enjoyable. We hope that we will successfully convince students of this during the module.
PSY-10017 Biological and Cognitive Psychology 1 C M 7.5 15
No prior knowledge of psychology is required in order to study this module in which students explore biological psychology (e.g., how neurons transmit information), perception (e.g., how we make sense of the visual world), learning (e.g., how behaviour is conditioned) and memory (e.g., what sort of memory problems are faced by amnesic patients).

Psychology Minor - Level 2 Modules

Semester 1 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
PSY-20006 Psychology - Study Abroad I EP C 7.5 15
This is a module that is automatically allocated to the records our Keele level II students who are going to Study Abroad at a partner University for a semester of their second year and cannot be selected by any other level II students.
PSY-20007 Psychology - Study Abroad II EP C 7.5 15
This is a module that is automatically allocated to the records our Keele level II students who are going to Study Abroad at a partner University for a semester of their second year and cannot be selected by any other level II students.
+ PSY-20012 Developmental and Social Psychology C M 7.5 15
Students wishing to take this module must first complete Year 1 module $ùIndividuals and Society 1&©. PSY20012 builds and extends students&© knowledge and understanding of theory and research in key areas of Developmental and Social Psychology. Students will study detailed and specific examples of research examining aspects of human development: for example, looking at children&©s earliest understanding of objects and events, language, self and others; describing how patterns of play and relationships develop from childhood to late adulthood. In Social Psychology, topics will explore how both internal and external factors shape people&©s understanding and explanations of their social world and look at psychological explanations for attitudes and behaviour that occur within and between groups. This module is an essential component of the Keele Undergraduate Psychology degree for students wishing to achieve the Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership of the British Psychological Society.
# PSY-20013 Survey and Qualitative Research Methods C C 7.5 15
This module aims to advance understanding of survey and qualitative research methods used in Psychology and builds on the content of the first year research methods modules. The module is split into two main components with weekly lectures and lab classes. First, qualitative research methods are covered, including a range of data collection methods (e.g. interview and focus groups) and different approaches to data analysis (e.g. IPA, narrative analysis, discourse analysis). Students then turn their attention to the issue of questionnaire development, including item generation, hands on data collection, and item analysis (e.g. reliability analyses and factor analysis) using SPSS.
Semester 2 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
+ PSY-20005 Biological Psychology, Perception and Cognition C M 7.5 15
Students wishing to take this module must first complete Year 1 module $ùBiological and Cognitive Psychology I&©. This year 2 module builds upon and extends students&© knowledge and understanding of key issues in the study of the biological basis of behaviour and cognitive processes. Students study cognitive processes such as human learning, language skills such as reading, memory and false memory. Later in the module, students study core underlying biological structures such as the central nervous system and visual system as well as exploring what psychopharmacological approaches can reveal about normal and abnormal behaviour and being introduced to neuropsychology and issues such as the biology of sex, sleep and hormones. This module is an essential component of the Keele Undergraduate Psychology degree for students wishing to achieve the Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership of the British Psychological Society (GBC).
PSY-20018 Cognitive and Biological Research Methods in Psychology C M 7.5 15
This exciting module will present students with an opportunity to study cutting-edge research methods applied by psychologists to investigate human behaviour. Techniques are drawn from across the discipline of Psychology, and range from functional brain imaging to the application of inferential statistics.

Psychology Minor - Level 3 Modules

Semester 2 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
# PSY-30067 Individual Differences and Conceptual Issues EP E 7.5 15
This module consists of two separate parts. The Conceptual and Historical Issues in Psychology section invites students to think about the importance of the discipline of Psychology in informing our understanding of what it is to be human and how this impacts on our understanding of everyday experiences. Key topics introduced include: the nature of science (and psychology), consciousness and cognition in human and non-human animals, the use of psychology for manipulation and control, community action and change, and understanding conflict and entrenched beliefs. The Personality and Individual Differences section discusses traditional and more modern approaches to the study of personality and intelligence. Topics include influence of gender and race on intelligence, psychodynamic approaches to Psychology, Personal Construct Theory, and individual differences in interpersonal relationships as well as physical and mental health.
C Compulsory Core Module
O Optional Core Module
EP Programme Elective Module
EA Approved Elective Module
EF Free-Standing Elective Module
M Mixed Assessment e.g. a mixture of essay(s) and examination, with the latter's weighting below 90%.
E Examination, providing 90% or more of the mark.
C Continuous Assessment e.g. essay(s) or practical work (as appropriate).
+ Available to qualified non-principal, Erasmus, Exchange and Study Abroad students but there may be a restriction on the number of places available
~ Specific pre-requisite(s) needed by non-principal, Erasmus, Exchange and Study Abroad students wishing to take these modules
# Not normally available to Erasmus, Exchange and Study Abroad students (except by prior negotiation with Departmental Tutor)
Note: Modules not marked with a # are available to suitably qualified Erasmus, Exchange and Study Abroad students.