Qualification Aims and Objectives

The course develops students’ understanding of psychological concepts, human behaviour and mental processes while fostering scientific inquiry, critical thinking, and practical investigation. It encourages students to be knowledgeable, inquiring, and open-minded, and to appreciate the impact of psychology on individuals, societies, culture and global challenges.

Objectives

• Develop a deep conceptual understanding of key psychological principles, theories and processes.
• Acquire and apply scientific knowledge, methods and investigative techniques in psychology.
• Build practical and analytical skills through experimentation, data-analysis and collaborative work.
• Consider the ethical, environmental, economic, cultural and social implications of psychological research and applications.
• Prepare for further study and careers in psychology, counselling, mental health, human resources, research, education and allied professions.

Course Outline

Syllabus Themes

• Biological, cognitive and sociocultural influences on human behaviour.
• Research methods and ethical practice in psychology.
• Contexts of application such as health & well-being; human development; human relationships; learning and cognition.

Experimental Programme

• Practical work (class investigations, experiments)
• Research proposal or investigation task to apply methods, collect data, analyse, conclude and evaluate supported by psychological techniques, technology and mathematics.

Assessment (HL)

• External (80%): multiple papers including unseen material, data-analysis, extended response and research-based questions.
• Internal (20%): Research proposal / internal investigation – design, carry out and report a psychological research task.