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PS3520: SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY (2020-2021)

Last modified: 05 Aug 2021 13:04


Course Overview

Social Psychologists explore the psychological factors that influence individual behaviours within social situations.  As such, the aim of this course is to provide students with an introduction to the range of topics within experimental social psychology, with a defined focus on social cognition.

Topics covered within this lecture based course include: Stereotypes; social perception and action; self-control; consciousness and mimicry.

This course provides a scientific explanation for social phenomena, making it ideal for students with an interest in individual and group behaviour.

Course Details

Study Type Undergraduate Level 3
Term Second Term Credit Points 15 credits (7.5 ECTS credits)
Campus Aberdeen Sustained Study No
Co-ordinators
  • Professor Neil Macrae

Qualification Prerequisites

  • Either Programme Level 3 or Programme Level 4

What courses & programmes must have been taken before this course?

What other courses must be taken with this course?

None.

What courses cannot be taken with this course?

None.

Are there a limited number of places available?

No

Course Description

The course will commence with a brief conceptual overview of experimental social psychology. Consideration will then be given to a range of core topics in social cognition. The historical context of each topic will be covered prior to an analysis of contemporary theoretical and empirical research.

Contact Teaching Time

Information on contact teaching time is available from the course guide.

Teaching Breakdown

More Information about Week Numbers


Details, including assessments, may be subject to change until 30 August 2024 for 1st term courses and 20 December 2024 for 2nd term courses.

Summative Assessments

Tutorial Participation 10%

MCQs 20%

Essay 35%

Exam 35%

Formative Assessment

There are no assessments for this course.

Course Learning Outcomes

Knowledge LevelThinking SkillOutcome
FactualRememberStudents will be able to describe major social psychological theories and central findings from contemporary research in core topics in the area.
ConceptualEvaluateStudents will be able to evaluate and articulate how research in social psychology can inform societal issues
ConceptualAnalyseStudents will learn the skills to understand and evaluate the scientific basis of claims regarding everyday social phenomena.
ReflectionUnderstandStudents will become aware of the moral and ethical implications of social psychological theory and research

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