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Psychology (VCE Subject)

“The Christian faith of the early scientists gave them more than presuppositions; it also gave them motivation. They believed that in studying nature they were discovering the wisdom and power of the Creator and were thus honouring Him.” James F. Jekel

 OVERVIEW

This study enables students to:

  • Apply psychological models, theories and concepts to describe, explain and analyse observations and ideas related to human thoughts, emotions and behaviour
  • Examine the ways that a biopsychosocial approach can be applied to organise, analyse and extend knowledge in psychology
  • Understand the cooperative, cumulative, evolutionary and interdisciplinary nature of science as a human endeavour, including its possibilities, limitations and political and sociocultural influences
  • Develop a range of individual and collaborative science investigation skills through experimental and inquiry tasks in the field and in the laboratory
  • Develop an informed perspective on contemporary science-based issues of local and global significance
  • Apply their scientific understanding to familiar and to unfamiliar situations, including personal, social, environmental and technological contexts
  • Develop attitudes that include curiosity, open-mindedness, creativity, flexibility, integrity, attention to detail and respect for evidence-based conclusions
  • Understand and apply the research, ethical and safety principles that govern the study and practice of the discipline in the collection, analysis, critical evaluation and reporting of data
  • Communicate clearly and accurately an understanding of the discipline using appropriate terminology, conventions and formats.
  • To better understand ourselves in order to further develop our God-given potential, and to have a better understanding of the behaviour of others in order to relate more effectively in personal and professional life. Through an understanding of “scientific” Psychology, to appreciate its relevance to Biblical principles.

SUBJECT LENGTH

  • 9 periods a cycle

TOPICS INCLUDE

  • Behaviour & mental processes
  • Psychological development
  • Perception
  • Influences on behaviour

PREREQUISITES

  • Booklist items
  • Levy costs

ASSESSMENT Unit 1

  • Outcome 1: Test
  • Outcome 2: Empirical Research Activity on Piaget’s Theory of Development
  • Outcome 3: Report of an investigation

ASSESSMENT Unit 2

  • Outcome 1: Test and Visual perception annotated presentation
  • Outcome 2: Social behaviour media analysis
  • Outcome 3: External influences on behaviour scientific poster

 “But ask the animals, and they will teach you, or the birds in the sky, and they will tell you; or speak to the earth, and it will teach you, or let the fish in the sea inform you. Which of all these does not know that the hand of the Lord has done this? In his hand is the life of every creature and the breath of all mankind.” Job 12:7-10