The aim of this module is to introduce students to the research methods and statistics used within the Psychology. Students will learn about using the correct scientific method for planning, undertaking and interpreting research. Areas covered include:

• Designing a research project
• Producing a literature review
• Quantitative and qualitative approaches to research
• Descriptive and inferential statistics
• Proficient use of statistical package SPSS in facilitating research
• Surveys and focus groups
• Hypothesis testing
• Ethical issues
• Seeing and understanding findings
• Creating reports to show findings

Students will learn how to communicate and learn using academic English language. Topics covered will range from academic writing, reading for Higher Education (HE) study, listening in the HE environment, speaking and listening in seminars and University study skills. The students will develop the confidence to use this language, which will help the rest of their pathways and further education.

This module teaches students how to communicate within a scientific setting in a clear and effective way, both in writing and verbally. They will study scientific texts and listen to lectures within their field and write summaries of what they learnt from this, providing opportunities to demonstrate their understanding of and ability to engage with scientific writing. Students will also be required to work in groups, discussing current Psychology topics

Students consider the link between behaviour and the mind, conditioning and the interaction with the environment. What defines normal and abnormal behaviour and why behaviours are so difficult to influence or adjust are discussed. Additionally, this course reviews mental health problems, including stress, anomalistic psychology and the experience of the paranormal. Students also consider positive psychology and the science of happiness and well-being.