Introduction to Data AnalysisPSY002
Semester one
Introduction to data analysis introduces students to statistical concepts applied to experimental methods. Statistical methods can be applied to scientific disciplines such as psychology but are often used in other broad areas. The ability to understand, critique and communicate quantitative analyses are imperative to providing evidence-based findings and being able to determine the merit of data.
In this subject students will be introduced to statistical concepts including descriptive statistics, probability and variables. Students will be required to understand and communicate and critique hypothesis testing using a range of statistical techniques.
Assessment method:Short online submissions indicating students understand statistical methods, and an end of semester take-home exam.
Thinking PsychologicallyPSY003
Semester one
Psychology as a broad discipline is constantly changing in line with new findings and a greater understanding of social, biological and personal traits and states. Understanding the evolving landscape of psychological research relies on an understanding and discussion of both the history of science, and the history and contemporary theories of psychology.
This subject will introduce students to the scientific method in its broad context and in line with historical and contemporary psychological theory. At the completion of this unit students will be able to understand and question assumptions psychologists make and apply this critical lens to several modern psychological theories and techniques.
Assessment method:Can include a combination of essays, literature reviews, oral presentations, poster presentations, executive summaries, and/or take-home exams.
Lifespan DevelopmentPSY004
Semester one
Each individual is unique in their journey through life. Human development is shaped largely by the complexities and intricacies of heredity and environment factors interacting prior to conception and throughout the lifespan. This subject will explore biological, social, psychological and economic factors that shape an individual’s growth and well-being throughout the lifespan. Major theories of development will be critiqued and explanations used to describe lifespan development will be reviewed. The relationship between biological, psychological and environmental factors and mental health will be examined.
Assessment method:Can include a combination of essays, literature reviews, oral presentations, poster presentations, executive summaries, and/or take-home exams.
AOD IssuesHEBCHT104
Semester one
This subject is intended to provide students with knowledge of contemporary issues regarding drug use and treatment in Australia with a focus on the AOD sector. Students will become familiar with theories of addiction as well as theories of various treatment strategies.
On successful completion of this subject, students will be able to:
a. Evaluate how values and attitudes influence both our own and the community’s responses to AOD issues.
b. Articulate historical, social, cultural, and political constructions of drug use and how they influence policy.
c. Investigate theories of drug use and addiction, risk and protective factors, and socio-economic impacts for individuals, their families/carers, and the community.
d. Assess psychoactive substances, methods of classification and their effect on individual physiology and behaviour.
e. Critically evaluate concepts of addiction such as intoxication, withdrawal, dependency, tolerance, neuroadaptation, and the addiction cycle.
f. Formulate strategies for strengthening early intervention and prevention approaches to harmful AOD use from an individual and community perspective.
Assessment method:Can include a combination of essays, literature reviews, oral presentations, poster presentations, executive summaries, and/or exams.
Cognition Language and PerceptionPSY007
Semester two
Cognitive psychology focusses on the mental processes that allow us to perceive and interpret the world. Understanding the processes that give rise to perception, that allow us to recall memories and to produce speech are fundamental in our understanding of consciousness.
In this subject students will look at the history of cognitive psychology, sensory perception, attention and memory. Students will apply a critical lens to concepts of psycholinguistics and reasoning while reflecting on their own cognitive processes.
Assessment method:Can include a combination of essays, literature reviews, oral presentations, poster presentations, executive summaries, and/or take-home exams.
Individual Differences in Capacity, Behaviour and PersonalityPSY008
Semester two
Lasting psychological characteristics that distinguish us from one another are components that make up individual differences. Intelligence, personality traits, values and capabilities make up individual differences. These individual differences shape our behaviour and our sense of self and others.
In this subject students will be introduced t concepts of individual differences in memory, ability to multitask, intelligence and personality traits. At the conclusion of this units students will understand and be able to communicate individual differences and their interactions with behaviour.
Assessment method:Can include a combination of essays, literature reviews, oral presentations, poster presentations, executive summaries, and/or take-home exams.
Principals of Social PsychologyPSY006
Semester two
Social psychology focuses on the thoughts, feelings and behaviours of people. In particular social psychology looks at the dynamic interactions between people and how these can affect learning, behaviours and a concept of self. Social psychology uncovers the nature of individual cognitive in social situations.
This subject will engage students with historical and contemporary concepts of social psychology including affect, concepts of self and influence. At the conclusion of the subject students will be able to critique and discuss social psychology concepts and research methods.
Assessment method:Can include a combination of essays, literature reviews, oral presentations, poster presentations, executive summaries, and/or take-home exams.
Exploring ResearchPSY005
Semester two
The subject will explore the fundamentals of research, both in terms of conducting it and understanding it.
An overarching topic is covered each week of the semester. In a mixed-mode approach, each three-hour face-to-face session will incorporate elements of traditional lecture regularly interspersed with discussion, continuous opportunity to ask questions, and posed scenarios that require individual and small-group work to complete and present to the class for wider discussion.
An assortment of research techniques will be canvassed, with an underlying philosophy that a good researcher is one able to determine and apply the most appropriate combination of techniques to the problem at hand rather than being limited to a small number of preferred methods.
Assessment method:Can include a combination of essays, literature reviews, oral presentations, poster presentations, executive summaries, and/or take-home exams.
Chisholm is a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) and provides Nationally Recognised Training (NRT). This means you can be assured that our training will provide you with a qualification that is recognised and respected across Australia.