Overview

In this module, you will explore the significance of the scientific method in research and learn to communicate your findings with precision, adhering to the conventions of scientific discourse. Through critical engagement with scientific texts and lectures in psychology, you will distill key information, enhancing your summarization skills and understanding of scientific content.

A focal point of your learning will be mastering APA formatting and scientific writing style, essential for the clear communication of scientific information. This will involve analyzing exemplary texts to apply these conventions effectively in your written work.

Additionally, the module will develop your oral communication skills through collaborative projects on current debates in psychology, fostering your ability to articulate and defend your viewpoints within scholarly discourse. This comprehensive approach aims to equip you with foundational skills in both written and oral scientific communication, pivotal for your academic and professional advancement in psychology.

Topics studies in this module include:

Scientific Writing: Application of APA style and conventions for academic writing. Research Synthesis: Summarizing and synthesizing psychological texts, emphasizing diverse perspectives. Critical Skills: Developing critical thinking, effective note-taking, and evaluating sources. Writing Proficiency: Techniques for structured writing, argument development, and mastering APA citations. Collaboration: Enhancing group discussion contributions and engaging with peer feedback. Oral Communication Skills: Oral communication in group discussions.

Assessment Strategy

Threshold (40%-49% / D- to D+) Can communicate knowledge of key areas and principles but there is a weakness in understanding the subject area. Can write an essay synthesising information and arguments from different sources. However, there are some weaknesses with structure and clarity of argumentation and little adherence to APA standards.

Satisfactory (50%–59% / C- to C+) Can communicate knowledge of key areas and principles and the main elements of the subject are understood. Can write an essay synthesising information and arguments from different sources. The essay has a clear overall structure but there may be weaknesses in coherence at paragraph level, argumentation, and partial adherence to APA standards.

Good (60%-69% / B- to B+) Can communicate knowledge of the subject area and demonstrates a strong understanding. Can write an essay synthesising information and arguments from a variety of sources and comment on these. The essay has a clear structure and logical argumentation. The work mostly adheres to APA standards.

Excellent (70%-100% / A- to A*) Can communicate knowledge of the subject area and demonstrates a comprehensive understanding. Can write an essay synthesising information and arguments from a variety of sources comment and expanding on multiple perspectives. The essay has a clear structure, logical argumentation and precise language. The work fully adheres to APA standards.

Learning Outcomes

• Accurately adhere to APA referencing style in their written work

• Effectively communicate concepts in psychology in both written and oral form

• Synthesize ideas from psychological research and evaluate those ideas