Psychology
Study Overview
Psychology is the study of the genetics and the development of the brain and behaviour in both humans and animals, including the biological structures and processes that sustain both. Students can develop an understanding of social groups, society groups, society and themselves through the study of Psychology.
The study aims to engage students in the study of human behaviour from biological, cognitive, emotional and social perspectives. Students are introduced to a variety of thinking and research approaches used in Psychology and gain a broad perspective of the study as a Science.
Students also apply the principles of scientific research to investigations of Psychology. They propose and investigate hypotheses, collect and analyse data and draw conclusions, taking account of limitations and recommendations. They relate inferences to current models and theories, and recognise the contribution to Psychology of earlier models and theories. Students incorporate ethical principles in their research and identify and analyse research methods and their ethical implications.
Units
Unit 1: How are behaviour and mental processes shaped?
Unit 2: How do internal and external factors influence behaviour and mental processes?
Unit 3: How does experience affect behaviour and mental processes?
Unit 4: How is wellbeing maintained and supported?
Assessment
The student’s performance on each outcome is assessed using one or more of the following:
analysis and evaluation of an experiment or case study
a data analysis of generated primary and/or collated secondary data
reflective annotations of a logbook of practical activities
media analysis of one or more contemporary media texts
a literature review
response to a psychological issue or ethical dilemma
a modelling or simulation activity
problem-solving involving psychological concepts, skills and/or issues
a report of a scientific investigation, including the generation, analysis and evaluation of primary data
Prerequisites / Suggested Prior Studies
No prerequisites are required for VCE Psychology.
Suggested prior studies include:
Inside the Mind (9/10 Elective)
Consumer Science (9/10 Elective)
Future Pathways
Potential future pathways after completing Units 1 - 4 Psychology include a range of university and employment opportunities.
Examples of pathways and professions from the field of Psychology include:
Psychologist
Psychiatrist
Forensic and clinical psychology
Sports psychology
Counselling
Youth work
Education
Please check the VTAC guide for further information.