Scotch College

VCE: Psychology

Rationale

Psychology is the scientific study of mental processes and behaviour. Biological, behavioural, cognitive and socio-cultural perspectives inform the way psychologists approach their research into the human condition. In VCE psychology, students explore complex human behaviours and thought processes. They develop empathetic understandings and an understanding of mental health issues in society. Students are given the opportunity to apply psychological principles to everyday situations such as workplace and social relations.

Units 1 and 2 do not have to be completed to study Units 3 and 4. However, students wishing to complete Units 3 and 4 must have approval by the Head of House and the Head of Senior School.

Structure

Unit 1: Introduction to Psychology

The Unit 1 course has two areas of study. The first area of study is ‘What is Psychology?' where students will study different psychological perspectives used to explain human behavior, as well as explain visual perception. The second area of study is ‘Lifespan Psychology' where students will investigate developmental theories and conduct an investigation into the stages of the lifespan of an individual.

Unit 2: Self and Others

Unit 2 investigates ‘Interpersonal and Group Behaviour' where students will study attitudes and the behaviour of individuals and groups. The second area of study for Unit 2 is ‘Intelligence and Personality' where students will compare differing theories and methodologies.

Unit 3: The Conscious Self

Unit 3 consists of two areas of study. The first is ‘Mind, Brain and Body' where students will investigate the brain, states of consciousness including sleep, and research methods. The second area of study is ‘Memory' where students will explain the neural basis of memory, retention and techniques for improving and manipulating memory. There is a mid-year examination and that assesses Unit 3 understanding.

Unit 4: Brain, Behavior and Experience

The first area of study for Unit 4 is ‘Learning' where students investigate the neural basis for learning and different theories of learning. The second area of study is ‘Mental Health' where students learn to differentiate between mental health and mental illness. In addition students will explain stress, a phobia and a selected mental disorder using a bio-psychological framework. Unit 4 is assessed with an end-of-year exam.

Like other Sciences, Psychology has a mid-year exam for Unit 3 and an end-of-year exam for Unit 4.

Assessment

Units 1 and 2: Internal Assessment

Unit 3: School Assessed Coursework (internal) 17 per cent

Examination (external) 33 per cent

Unit 4: School Assessed Coursework (internal) 17 per cent

Examination (external) 33 per cent