Psychology
Psychology is the scientific study of the human mind and behaviour. It uses a range of methodology to discover different explanations for why we behave the way we do. If you are inquisitive, have a scientific mind and want to know more about yourself and others then psychology is for you.
Psychology is taught as an A Level subject, and we follow the AQA A specification. This course allows students an insight into human behaviours and the methods of studying them. There are key themes that are compulsory for all students to cover which include: Social influence, memory, attachment, psychopathology, biopsychology, approaches, debates and research methods. In the second year we move onto the optional topics which include schizophrenia, aggression and relationships. There are elements of maths skills involved as well in terms of being able to manipulate data, draw graphs and put numbers into equations. The full A level has a minimum requirement of 10% maths and up to 30% research methods. Students are assessed with three 2-hour papers.
Students will have a number of opportunities to design and carry out their own practical research studies. For example, is there a correlation between number of hours slept and reaction time? Do students learn better with or without music? This will involve formulating hypothesis, selecting a sample and collecting and analysing data. In the second year this will also involve statistical analysis of results.
All students will have the opportunity to extend their learning of institutional aggression with a trip to Shepton Mallet prison. Here they will be given a guided tour of the prison and will have opportunities to explore the Media Portrayal of the Kray Twins and the Suffragettes Behind Bars.
Where can it lead you?
Students can continue onto a number of degree/career pathways from Psychology as it bridges the science/humanity gaps. Many students go on to do Media, physiotherapy, nursing, occupational health, speech therapy, social work, sports sciences as well as the transferable skills helping into career pathways of management, business, research and teaching.
AMELIA WILLOUGHBY
Head of Psychology
AWilloughby@downside.co.uk