Tiffin Sixth Form Course Guide 2021

PSYCHOLOGY (AQA 7182)

How is it assessed?

The Psychology course provides students with many varying approaches and view- points within the discipline. Psychology is a highly scientific subject incorporating mathematical elements, with the compre- hensive study of statistical tests. Psychol- ogy also requires strong critical thinking and extended writing skills to meet the high demands of the examination assess- ment. Over the course, you will study topics such as social influence, memory, attach- ment, psychopathology and schizophrenia to name but a few. The different ap- proaches used within Psychology (Biological, Cognitive, Behavioural and Psychodynamic) will encompass the topics visited and provide a rounded under- standing of the many arguments within the discipline. We also learn about, and can try for yourself, some of the re- search methods used by psychologists. As well as this, you will take an in-depth look at ways of testing your results for signifi- cance. Teaching involves discussion and practical investigation wherever possible and you will be encouraged to critically evaluate the research you meet, an essen- tial skill for higher education. What will you study?

vant to a wide range of career options. Students wishing to pursue a career using psychology might look at areas like clini- cal psychology, counselling, educational psychology, forensic psychology, mental health work, teaching, sport psychology, medicine, business and many more. A Level Psychology gives you the oppor- tunity to apply your knowledge to particu- lar scenarios. In the process you’ll use a combination of numeracy and literacy skills, develop your ability to think criti- cally and to reason, and develop your communication skills and perspectives, for example through taking part in chal- lenging debates. The blend of skills you’ll develop will be applicable to lots of differ- ent areas. Last year’s psychology students chose a wide range of university courses including Mathematics, Medicine, Management, Fashion, Finance, Microbiology, Geogra- phy, History, Politics and Economics, Psy- chology, Anthropology, English, Theatre and Film. One student secured a place on the highly competitive IBM Futures Place- ment Scheme - a 12-month paid job.

There is no coursework component. Your grade will be provided through examina- tions taken at the end of the course which include multiple choice, short and long answer essay style questions.

Enrichment opportunities?

We organise talks from professionals who have chosen a career path in a psychology related profession. This allows the stu- dents an opportunity to ask direct ques- tions about their jobs. We host visiting speakers including Dr Guy Sutton who runs a Brain Day where students can learn about the most recent brain re- search developments including the work on cerebral organoids and neurobion- ics. Extension activities include encourag- ing submissions to The Royal Holloway national psychology competition and other essay and debate competitions. We attend a number of conferences and plan to visit the Wellcome Collection. Students also have an opportunity to develop their own independent research project.

Where might it lead you?

Psychology is the scientific study of hu- man mind and behaviour, which is rele-