Psychology

WHAT IS THE INTENT OF THE PSYCHOLOGY CURRICULUM?

The teaching of Psychology at The Marsh Academy aims to help students develop a love of learning in understanding and explaining how the mind can influence human behaviour and the impact of this behaviour on wider society, as well as developing our students into well rounded active citizens. The topics covered allow the students to develop a contextual understanding of why psychology is so important to study and why it is so relevant in their world. The teaching of psychology is rooted in the use of real-life examples from professional practice and those from history to allow students the opportunity to apply their knowledge of the underpinning theories and research they study in the classroom. At the Marsh Academy we intend to inspire students to use the knowledge and skills gained during their psychology A Level and use this in whatever pathway they choose to take next, whether that be skills of critical analysis and evaluation, mathematical skills learned during the statistical component of the course or in their personal and professional lives to enable them to become more compassionate, empathetic and tolerant citizens.

Learners will be encouraged to:

• Use specialist vocabulary, psychological concepts, terminology and conventions to engage in the process of psychological enquiry.
• Acquire knowledge and understanding of psychology, developing an understanding of self and others and how psychological understanding can help to explain everyday social phenomena.
• Understand how psychological research is conducted, including the role of scientific method and data analysis.
• Present information, develop arguments and draw conclusions through a critical approach to psychological evidence, developing as reflective thinkers.
• Develop an understanding of the relationship between psychology and personal, moral, social and cultural issues and develop an understanding of ethical issues in psychology.
• Develop an understanding of psychological issues, the contribution of psychology to individual, social and cultural diversity and how psychology contributes to society.