Psychology

Introduction

Psychology is a Social Science. It uses the methodologies of Science to investigate human behaviour, and help us to develop descriptions and explanations of what we do and why. As a relatively new discipline this means there is a lot of debate and controversy. Psychology is exciting and challenging, and will cause you to reflect on your preconceptions about human nature.

Facilities

The Psychology Department is located in the Psychology Mobile adjacent to Norbury House. We have a well-stocked collection of psychology textbooks and audio-visual aids.

Theory lessons are taught in the mobile, and practical and coursework classes take place in one of the ICT suites.

Curriculum

Psychology is studied as a Sixth Form option only at QEGS.

The course is extremely popular and usually two parallel pools will be offered in each year.

The topics studied at AS level are: memory, attachment, stress, abnormality, social influence and research methods. In A2 the topics are: relationships, pro and anti-social behaviour, cognitive development, psychopathology and a synoptic element. A coursework practical is conducted in the final term of Year 12, and written up in Year 13. Assessment is by three written external examinations in Year 12, and two in Year 13. We follow the AQA A specification.

General

Students who study biology, health and social care or sociology will find some overlap with psychology, which can be beneficial.

To succeed at the subject, students need, and will develop further, the skills of clear expression, analysis and synthesis of ideas, and evaluation. There is some statistical content in Year 13, and regular assessment through essay writing, so good GCSE passes in English and maths are of benefit.

Most students of psychology will not go on to be psychologists. However, the subject is of direct benefit for many careers in health, social care, and personnel. There are many transferable skills that can be acquired and developed by studying the course, and which employers value. For students wishing to carry the subject on to University level, it is increasingly recommended that a science such as biology also be studied at A level.

Staff