Personality and Individual Differences for Distance learning

Code

PSGY4070

School

Psychology

Level

4

Credits

10

Semesters

Spring UK

Summary

The module covers the psychological explanations of personality and individual differences. In this module the relationship between the individual and society will be highlighted. In particular, the major personality theories are considered in detail and the application of these theories to areas such as abnormal psychology and health psychology are discussed. IQ is also covered and evolutionary bases of traits.
 

Target Students

Students on the MSc Psychology Conversion by distance learning only

Classes

Student will engage in online working group discussions. Within these working groups, students will explore topics presented during the weekly lecture more deeply. Group discussions will be monitored by teaching faculty and will help students develop a deeper understanding of the topics presented, allow students to apply new knowledge, and help develop professional communication skills. Total amount of study time on this module, including self study and revision is recommended to be 100 hours.

Assessment

• 67% Exam 1 (1-hour): Seen Exam - 1500 words
• 33% Exam 2 (0-hour-30-minute): MCQ ExamSys Exam.

Assessed by end of spring semester

Educational Aims

Learning Outcomes

Knowledge and Understanding 
i.   Demonstrate understanding of the dominant approaches to individual differences, personality, and IQ, 
ii.   Demonstrate knowledge of research methods and paradigms used in the study of individual differences, personality, and IQ, 
iii.   Demonstrate knowledge of the theoretical bases of personality, 
iv.   Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the theoretical bases for individual differences in IQ, 
v.   Demonstrate understanding of the application of personality and individual differences to areas of health, occupational psychology, and abnormal psychology 
 

Intellectual Skills 
i.   Reason scientifically and demonstrate the relationship between theory and evidence
ii.   Can adopt multiple perspectives 
iii.   Can pose and operationalise research questions 
iv.   Provide evidence-based reasoning to establish the merits of competing psychological explanation 
v.   Produce written argument which shows critical appraisal and good understanding of the main issues central to the topics 
vi.   Develop a broader knowledge base of the subject's studies via independent and appropriate reading 
vii.   Integrate the theoretical and applied nature of the topics where appropriate 
viii.   Provide evidence and support to argue the merits of the various approaches to personality in psychology
ix.   Appropriately interpret findings from studies of personality within health, occupational, criminological, and abnormal psychology in relation to hypothesis testing, methods, and analysis.

Transferable (key) Skills 
i.   Can communicate ideas and research findings both effectively and fluently 
ii.   Can solve problems by clarifying questions, considering alternative solutions, and evaluating outcomes 
iii.   Can undertake self-directed study and project management to meet desired objectives 
iv.   Evidence of academic skills (essay writing, library research, independent study) 
v. Demonstrate evidence-based analysis and critical appraisal
vi. Supply formal presentation and argument in analysis of evidence
vii. Produce well-organised and structured written work
viii. Work independently
ix. Perform effective literature searches
x. Present written argument in concise and time-restricted manner
 

Conveners

• Ms Gemma Fox