PSYCHOLOGY

Subject Department: PSYCHOLOGY

Examination Board: OCR

AS Code: 3876 A2 Code: 7876

Department members:
Mrs Sarah Whorlow (Head of Department)

Specification Summary
Psychology is the fascinating study of mind and behaviour. The course looks at how individuals behave, how their behaviour is measured and what factors influence their behaviour.

In this course, students cover all major areas of psychology by sampling research studies, using these as a starting point to explore theories and evidence. There is also the opportunity to extend your own research skills by carrying out several studies and experiments.

Aims of the Course
This course encourages candidates to:

	study psychological theories, research, terminology, concepts, studies and methods;
	develop skills of analysis, interpretation and evaluation;
	develop an understanding of different areas of psychology;
	design and report psychological investigations and analyse and interpret data;
	develop an understanding of ethical issues;
	promote an appreciation and understanding of individual, social and cultural diversity;
	explore the relationship between psychological knowledge and its relationship to contemporary issues;
	develop critical and evaluative skills in relation to theory, empirical studies and methods of research.

Prior Level of Attainment
It is not necessary for students to have studied GCSE psychology before commencing work at AS level. It is desirable, however, for pupils to have achieved grades A-C in the three core areas of English, Mathematics and Science at GCSE level.

Course Content Summary
AS Core studies 1 and 2: cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, physiological psychology, social psychology, individual differences
AS: evaluation of each of the studies, considering methods, perspectives and ethics
AS practical work: four activities including questions, self-reports and questionnaires; observation; experiment to analyse differences; correlation
A2: how psychology is applied to two of the following areas: Health, Environment and Crime
A2 coursework: one practical project, one assignment

Schemes of Assessment
AS is examined in 3 examinations, each carrying 33.3% of the total AS marks or 16.7% of the total A2 marks:

Links to Careers, Employment and Higher Education
Psychology can be classed as a Science or a Humanity and as such combines with a great many subjects. Psychology is primarily about explaining everyday behaviours and events and thus it compliments many career pathways.
Generally those who continue their Psychology studies to University have opportunities in Education, Counselling, Occupational Health, Management and Recruitment, Forensic Science, Social Work to name just a few.

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