Level: 100 level core

Credit points: 6

Mode of delivery: On-campus and online

Pre-requisites: None

Unit Description

This is the first of three inquiry-driven, multidisciplinary units in our undergraduate courses, which build upon one another to introduce key academic skills and an understanding of critical concepts relevant to the professions and careers into which our graduates progress. It will introduce you to higher education study, including key knowledge about the nature of higher education and how to navigate it successfully. It will help you develop critical thinking and communication skills, including reading and evaluating sources of information, summarising them effectively, and communicating your understanding to others. We will examine interactions between our own and others’ personal cultural identities, how they shape our experience of relationships personally and professionally, and their implications for future study and career. Finally, it will ensure that you understand the concept of cultural safety both as it applies to higher education and the workplace. The unit lays the groundwork for all of your future studies and will help you understand both yourself and others better.

Learning outcomes:

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

a. Identify, summarise and communicate concepts from credible sources of information

b. Explain the role of culture, cultural identity and cultural influence in higher education and professional practice

c. Evaluate and apply theories and evidence related to culturally safe practices in professional practice

Unit workload:

The workload for this unit is 10 hours per week.

Textbook

The required text book for this unit can be found by viewing the textbook list by selecting the course and trimester at the following link: https://www.acap.edu.au/student-resources/student-central-your-studies/textbooks-and-course-materials/

Academic misconduct

Ethical conduct and academic integrity and honesty are fundamental to the mission of ACAP. Academic misconduct will not be tolerated by the college. Please refer to the Academic Misconduct Policy for full details.

Disclaimer

Unit information may be subject to change prior to the teaching trimester commencing. Once term has commenced please review the Unit Outline in your class space to ensure your trimester study plan is correct.

Level: 100 level core

Credit Points: 6

Pre-requisites: None

Mode of delivery: On-campus and online

Unit description:

This unit is one of two introductory units in psychology for commencing students. Along with PSYC1052 Foundational Psychological Processes and the three interdisciplinary units (MULT1015 Applications in Context, MULT1025 Professions and Society, and MULT1035 Sustainability in Helping Professionals) this unit builds foundational knowledge relevant to the history, philosophy, and methods underpinning the scientific study of psychology. In this unit, the history and philosophy of both the quantitative and qualitative approaches are presented within the broader historical and philosophical themes of psychology as a discipline. The goals of this unit are to set the foundation for understanding research design and methods in psychology and to develop skills relevant to critiquing research, which involves developing knowledge and skills in research thinking, research doing, and research consuming. The unit considers the application of these research methods within the context of important concepts such as the scientist-practitioner model, evidence-based practice, ontology and epistemology, and ethics. Content related to introductory concepts in the history of philosophy of psychology are also covered, along with content on the application of psychology in current professional and social contexts. This material will be presented in a manner that is scientifically rigorous yet culturally responsive and informs a broader discussion of psychology as both a professional practice in Australia and as an agent of social benefit. This unit is the first in a scaffolded series of units that, taken together, will facilitate the development of a comprehensive understanding of the skills and knowledge associated with research methods in psychology, the history and philosophy of psychology, and their contribution to the application of psychology.

Learning Outcomes:

Learning and Teaching Process:

This unit is taught over 13 weeks. Students will participate in teaching and learning activities including:

a. Twelve (12) weekly pre-recorded 120 minute lectures

b. Twelve (12) weekly 90-minute live tutorials

For live tutorials, students will be enrolled to attend a regular class either a) on campus or b) online via Zoom.

In addition, the Unit Coordinator will be available for live online consultation for an hour on a weekly basis.

Level: 100 level core / elective
Credit points: 6
Pre-requisites: None

Unit Description:

Throughout the unit, students will examine the historical and social contexts within which criminological theories have arisen, as well as their current relevance to the Australian criminal justice system and society.

The unit commences by introducing students to the broader perspectives and orientations within which criminological theories are situated. Following an introduction to these foundational concepts, students will then examine major criminological theories, beginning with classicism, positivism and social theories.  Labelling perspectives will then be introduced, and the sociological origins of these models explored.  The final major theoretical areas to be outlined are the conflict and radical perspectives, Marxist and feminist perspectives.  The critical ideas inherent in these models will be used to analyse the assumptions of previously analysed theories. The contemporary perspectives of new right criminology and left realism will also be examined, and the subject will conclude by examining the optimistic approach and initiatives espoused by republican theory, and critical criminology’s post-modern and structuralist approaches.

Learning Outcomes:

On successful completion of this unit the student should be able to:

1. Demonstrate knowledge of the major theoretical perspectives within criminology
2. Explain the contemporary relevance of criminological theories to the Australian criminal justice system
3. Understand and apply key concepts and terms within criminology
4. Identify the strengths and weaknesses of criminological theories

Learning and Teaching Process:

This unit is taught over 13 weeks and totals 3 student contact hours per week.

Students will participate in teaching and learning activities including:

1. Lectures and critical discussion
2. Tutorials and skill development activities
3. Online pre-learning activities
4. Online post-learning

Depending on the delivery mode, this unit’s content is delivered to students via a weekly 2 hour lecture and 1 hour tutorial via Zoom.

In addition to timetabled contact hours, students are expected to do at least 6 hours of personal study each week to review lectures and read prescribed and recommended materials for this unit. The total individual workload of this unit will be around 72 hours (including assessments, lecture and tutorial preparation, individual self-study and reading).

Level: 100 level core

Credit points: 6

Pre-requisites: MULT1015 Applications in Context

Mode of delivery: On-campus and online

Unit Description:

Opening up possibilities for developing multidisciplinary knowledge and practice, ACAP draws on the four disciplines in the college to develop three integrative units that are core to first-year undergraduate courses and a postgraduate course. These inquiry-driven units lay the groundwork for engaging students with multidisciplinary thinking, discourse and initiative in their fields of endeavour and in their future profession.

This unit introduces the student to academic skills and reflective writing practices. The unit develops the student’s understanding of ethical practice across multiple disciplines. The human rights framework in Australia and its relation to ethics and ethical behaviour in professional practice is also explored.

Learning outcomes:

Unit workload:

The workload for this unit is 10 hours per week.

Level: 100 level core

Credit Points: 6

Pre-requisites: None

Mode of delivery: On-campus and online

Unit description:

This unit is a level 100 core and along with the interdisciplinary level 100 units and PSYC1052 Psychology: History Science and Application 1 provides an initial introduction to psychology. This unit will introduce fundamental psychological processes including principles of human learning, personality, motivation and emotion. The unit will provide a foundation for future study in psychology, including an introduction to the key processes of human cognition, human emotion, and human behaviour. Students will engage with empirical research as a means of evaluating competing theories and learn to engage in critical analysis of research findings. Culturally responsive approaches to the study of psychology are emphasised with the development of skills in communication of psychological processes across diverse contexts. Students will acquire skills in critical thinking and research communication that are necessary to progress through advanced and applied studies in psychology.

Learning Outcomes:

Learning and Teaching Process:

This unit is taught over 13 weeks and totals approximately 10 to 12 hours of learning activities per week.

Students will participate in teaching and learning activities including:

a. Twelve (12) weekly 120-minute interactive self-directed learning activities

b. Twelve (12) weekly 120-minute lectures

c. Twelve (12) weekly 90-minute tutorials

In addition, Coordinators are available for consultation for an hour on a weekly basis.

Level: 100 level core / elective
Credit points: 6
Pre-requisites: None

Unit Description:

This unit introduces students to contemporary issues surrounding the impact of social and cultural diversity on Australian society and the criminal justice system. The objective of this unit is to provide students with a sociological framework to inform their studies in criminal justice. This includes understandings of social and cultural diversity, and constructed norms, processes of socialisation, issues of inequity and the concept of intersectionality. Students will expand their understanding of the role of the media and popular culture and will examine the intersections of class, ethnicity, disability, gender, sexuality and mental health status. Students will then explore the historical and contemporary issues regarding the impact of cultural and social diversity on the Australian criminal justice system (CJS).

This unit will provide students with a theoretical framework in sociology that allows them to understand how the CJS and society interact in the Australian setting.

Learning Outcomes:

Learning and Teaching Process:

This unit is taught over 13 weeks and totals 3 student contact hours per week.

Students will participate in teaching and learning activities including:

1. Lectures and critical discussion
2. Tutorials and skill development activities
3. Online pre-learning activities
4. Online post-learning

This unit’s content is delivered to students via a weekly 2-hour lecture and 1-hour tutorial.

In addition to timetabled contact hours, students are expected to do at least 6 hours of personal study each week to review lectures and read prescribed and recommended materials for this unit. The total individual workload of this unit will be around 72 hours (including teamwork, individual self-study and reading).

Level: 100 level core

Credit Points: 6

Pre-requisites: MULT1015 Applications in Context
Mode of delivery: On-campus and online

Unit description:

Opening up possibilities for developing multidisciplinary knowledge and practice, ACAP draws on the 4 Disciplines in the College to develop three integrative units that are core to first-year Undergraduate courses. These inquiry-driven units lay the groundwork for engaging students with multidisciplinary thinking, discourse and initiative in their fields of endeavour and in their future profession/vocation.

This unit will introduce students the issues of sustainability on a personal, professional and community level. We will examine individual and group practices that can meet the needs of current generations without compromising our or future generations ability to meet their own needs through a transdisciplinary perspective. This will encompass evidence-based approaches to promoting sustainability in the context of study, professional work and within our communities. The unit provides students with an opportunity to explore, analyse and reflect on the contribution of human behaviour to the sustainability of individuals and communities, and apply this to their personal, educational and future professional lives.

Please note: There are slightly different expectations in MULT1035 for Graduate Certificate of Psychological (GCPS) Science students. If you are enrolled in the Graduate Certificate of Psychology there are modified versions of Learning Outcome [c], the Assessment 1b rubric, and the Assessment 2 rubric in the relevant sections below. If you are not enrolled in the Graduate Certificate of Psychological Science, you can ignore these sections.

Learning outcomes:

Unit workload

The workload for this unit is 10 hours per week.

Level: 100 level core / elective
Credit points: 6
Pre-requisites: None

Unit Description:

This unit introduces students to media representations of crime, criminal justice and society. It examines the influence of media and popular culture on attitudes and behaviours, and how the law intersects with media via attempts to moderate its effect. Interactions between media and political and economic factors are analysed, as are issues including ‘fake news’ and censorship. Throughout, real-world examples of media will be considered, including news broadcasts, television programs and films.

Learning Outcomes:

On successful completion of this unit the student should be able to:

1. Discuss and compare forms of media and their effects on society
2. Examine the effects of media consumption on society, including in relation to criminal behaviour and attitudes to justice
3. Examine attempts to regulate media, including censorship
4. Explain and contrast media representations of crime and criminal justice processes

Learning and Teaching Process:

This unit is taught over 13 weeks and totals 3 student contact hours per week.

Students will participate in teaching and learning activities including:

1. Lectures and critical discussion
2. Tutorials and skill development activities
3. Online pre-learning activities
4. Online post-learning

This unit’s content is delivered to students via a weekly 2-hour lecture and 1-hour tutorial.

In addition to timetabled contact hours, students are expected to do at least 6 hours of personal study each week to review lectures and read prescribed and recommended materials for this unit. The total individual workload of this unit will be around 72 hours (including teamwork, individual self-study and reading).

Level: 200 level core

Credit Points: 6

Pre-requisites: PSYC1042 Psychology: History, Science and Application 1

Mode of delivery: On-campus and online

Unit description:

This unit is one of the four core second year units in all Psychology degrees. The unit builds upon foundational level knowledge of the history and philosophy underpinning the scientific study of psychology introduced in PSYC1042 Psychology: History, Science and Application 1. The unit also complements other units at this level that explore core perspectives that inform contemporary psychology (e.g., PSYC2112 Foundational Perspectives: Cognition, PSYC2122 Foundational Perspectives: Biological Bases, and PSYC2132 Foundational Perspectives: Lifespan Development) and includes a focus on the application of psychology to everyday lives. This unit is the second in a scaffolded series of units that, taken together, will facilitate the development of a comprehensive understanding of the skills and knowledge associated with research methods in psychology, the history and philosophy of psychology, and their contribution to the application of psychology.

In this unit, the history and philosophy of both the quantitative and qualitative approaches is presented within the broader historical and philosophical themes of psychology as a discipline. The goals of the unit are to develop an understanding of the role of quantitative data analysis and statistical testing (using the SPSS data analysis package) and qualitative approaches in answering research questions in psychology, which involves developing knowledge and skills in research thinking, research doing, and research consuming. The unit considers the application of these research methods within the context of important concepts, such as the scientist-practitioner model, evidence-based practice, ontology and epistemology, and ethics. This material will be presented in a manner that is scientifically rigorous, yet culturally responsive, and informs a broader discussion of psychology as both a professional practice in Australia and as an agent of social benefit.

Learning Outcomes:

Learning and Teaching Process:

This unit is taught over 13 weeks and totals approximately 10 to 12 hours of learning activities per week. Students will participate in teaching and learning activities including:

a. Twelve (12) weekly 90 minute tutorials

b. Twelve (12) weekly online 120 minute asynchronous lectures

c. Twelve (12) weekly online 120 minute post-tutorial learning activities

In addition, Coordinators are available for consultation for an hour on a weekly basis.

Level: 200 level core

Credit Points: 6

Pre-requisites: PSYC2102 Psychology: History, Science and Application 2

Mode of delivery: On-campus and online

Unit description:

This unit is one of the core Level 200 units in the Bachelor of Psychological Science, Bachelor of Psychological Science and Counselling and Bachelor of Psychological Science and Criminology course. This unit will introduce students to theory and research in cognitive psychology. An emphasis of this unit is on the application of cognitive psychology to everyday life across the lifespan. Topics include learning and memory, academic performance, eyewitness testimony, neuropsychological disorders, resilience and wellbeing. We will also consider the origins of knowledge and consider Indigenous knowledges and their value in contributing to processes of learning, individual and community wellbeing, resilience and cultural safety.

Learning Outcomes:

Learning and Teaching Process

This unit is taught over 13 weeks and totals approximately 10 to 12 hours of learning activities per week.

Students will participate in teaching and learning activities including:

a. Twelve (12) weekly online 120 minute pre-tutorial learning activities

b. Twelve (12) weekly 90 minute tutorials

c. Twelve (12) weekly online 120 minute post-tutorial learning activities

In addition, Coordinators are available for consultation for an hour on a weekly basis.

Level: 200 level core

Credit Points: 6

Pre-requisites: PSYC2102 Psychology: History, Science and Application 2

Mode of delivery: On-campus and online

Unit description:

This unit is a core subject in the 2nd year of the Bachelor of Psychological Science, Bachelor of Psychological Science and Counselling, and Bachelor of Psychological Science and Criminology programs. This unit will introduce students to the biological bases that contribute to our understanding of human behaviour. It will provide an in-depth understanding of the anatomical, biochemical, genetic and physiological bases of brain function and dysfunction, current neuroscientific approaches to brain function and behaviour, including detailed knowledge of the processes of perception by the senses. This foundational knowledge will then be applied to current understandings of neuropsychological disorders.

Learning Outcomes:

Learning and Teaching Process:

This unit is taught over 13 weeks and totals approximately 10 to 12 hours of learning activities per week.

Students will participate in teaching and learning activities including:

a. Twelve (12) weekly online 120 minute pre-tutorial learning activities

b. Twelve (12) weekly 90 minute tutorials

c. Twelve (12) weekly online 120 minute post-tutorial learning activities

In addition, Coordinators are available for consultation for an hour on a weekly basis.

Level: 200 level core / elective
Credit points: 6
Pre-requisites: Successful completion of any four 100 level units

Unit Description:

Penology is the study of punishment. This unit introduces students to the issues involved in approaches to sentencing and punishment, rehabilitation and reintegration of offenders. This unit will provide introductory knowledge and critical insights into the theories and practices of punishment, correctional ideologies and practices and prison privatisation. Emphasis will also be placed on the question of whether prisons effectively rehabilitate offenders, prisoner rights and alternatives to imprisonment and punitive processes.

Learning Outcomes:

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

a. Examine sentencing purposes and considerations
b. Apply knowledge of the historical, philosophical and social aspects of correctional systems
c. Analyse concepts of punishment and rehabilitation in custodial and non-custodial settings.
d. Communicate in a professional manner.
Learning and Teaching Process:

This unit is taught over 13 weeks and totals 3 student contact hours per week.

Students will participate in teaching and learning activities including:

1. Lectures and critical discussion
2. Tutorials and skill development activities
3. Online pre-learning activities
4. Online post-learning.

This unit’s content is delivered to students via a weekly 2-hour lecture and 1-hour tutorial.

In addition to timetabled contact hours, students are expected to do at least 6 hours of personal study each week to review lectures and read prescribed and recommended materials for this unit. The total individual workload of this unit will be around 72 hours (including teamwork, individual self-study and reading).

Level: 200 level core

Credit Points: 6

Pre-requisites: PSYC2102 Psychology: History, Science and Application 2

Mode of delivery: On-campus and online

Unit description:

This unit is one of the core Level 200 units in the undergraduate psychology course. This unit will introduce theory and research related to major themes of psychological development across the lifespan. The aim of the unit is to provide a solid understanding of issues and methods used in the psychological study of human development across the lifespan. Topics covered in the unit include: theoretical perspectives on lifespan development; physical and biological development; the development of cognition, intelligence, and language; social, emotional, and moral development; contexts for development; love and intimacy; gender and sexuality; and ageing, death, dying, and bereavement.

In this unit, students will develop the capacity to view key psychological processes from a lifespan perspective, adding to the breadth of knowledge of psychology provided by other Level 1 units, laying the foundation for further studies in developmental and professional psychology. The unit will emphasise skills required to comprehend and critically analyse psychological research in a manner that is scientifically rigorous yet culturally responsive. Further development of effective written communication skills in this unit will also provide framework for application of these skills across diverse groups in later professional contexts. The unit also emphasises understanding and demonstration of key elements of public safety including informed consent, equity and inclusion, and social sustainability. Students will have the opportunity to practice reflexivity through applying knowledge obtained in this unit to themselves and wider real-world contexts, providing foundational skills towards further professional development and practice in a culturally safe manner, to maintain personal and professional resilience across the lifetime.

Learning Outcomes:

Learning and Teaching Process:

This unit is taught over 13 weeks and totals approximately 10 to 12 hours of learning activities per week.

Students will participate in teaching and learning activities including:

a. Twelve (12) weekly online 120 minute pre-tutorial learning activities

b. Twelve (12) weekly 90 minute tutorials

c. Twelve (12) weekly online 120 minute post-tutorial learning activities

In addition, Coordinators are available for consultation for an hour on a weekly basis.

Level: 200 level core / elective
Credit points: 6
Pre-requisites: 4x Level 100 units

Unit Description:

This unit encourages students to think critically about criminal justice issues and how they manifest in the experiences of those who come into contact with criminal justice systems. On completing this unit students will have a broader understanding of contemporary criminal justice issues and be able to critically engage in debates that question its effectiveness and role in a changing society.

This unit introduces students to a range of critiques that arise in the context of criminal justice in action. It examines how relationships of power manifest within criminal justice systems, including how these impact on what behaviours are defined as criminal and whether justice is applied universally. It takes a critical look at the effectiveness of traditional criminal justice, including the sustainability of current imprisonment practices. This unit considers some innovative forms of justice that have arisen in both international and Australian contexts, and the emergence of justice reinvestment as a principle. The unit concludes by critically examining some contemporary challenges to criminal justice in Australia.

Learning Outcomes:

On successful completion of this unit the student should be able to:

1. Evaluate the effectiveness of traditional criminal justice processes and institutions, including juries and prisons
2. Examine the nature and impact of societal changes on the criminal justice system
3. Demonstrate knowledge of the various drivers of criminal justice policy and practice, including political, economic, and social factors
4. Analyse non-traditional approaches to criminal justice, including restorative justice and justice reinvestment
5. Demonstrate knowledge of the informal functions of law enforcement, court and correctional systems

Learning and Teaching Process:

This unit is taught over 13 weeks and totals 3 student contact hours per week.

Students will participate in teaching and learning activities including:

1. Lectures and critical discussion
2. Tutorials and skill development activities
3. Online pre-learning activities
4. Online post-learning

Depending on the delivery mode, this unit’s content is delivered to students via a weekly 2-hour lecture and 1-hour tutorial (via Zoom)

In addition to timetabled contact hours, students are expected to do at least6 hours of personal study each week to review lectures and read prescribed and recommended materials for this unit. The total individual workload of this unit will be around 72 hours (including teamwork, individual self-study and reading).

Level: 200 level core / elective
Credit points: 6
Pre-requisites: Successful completion of any four 100 level units

Unit Description:

This unit introduces students to issues related to substance use and dependency, drug-related crime, and the effects of these on criminal justice and society.

The unit commences by providing students with an understanding of key terms and substances before embarking on an historical examination of drugs, drug use and drug control. The unit will then outline the nature and extent of drug use and dependency in Australian society, especially as it pertains to vulnerable populations including Indigenous Australians and youth, as well as the causes of use. The unit will then address the link between drug use and other criminal behaviours, including organised crime.

The unit analyses a range of policies to reduce drug use and its related issues including supply reduction, demand reduction and harm minimisation approaches. Specific initiatives examined include diversion strategies, needle exchange programs, drug courts, education programs and injecting facilities. Further examination will be made in the context of the criminal justice system, including the involvement of police, courts and corrections. The unit concludes by considering the influence of the internet on the illicit drug market and assessing future trends.

Learning Outcomes:

On successful completion of this unit the student should be able to:

1. Examine key issues relating to licit and illicit substance use in Australian society
2. Demonstrate knowledge of the various factors that inform the drug debate and shape drug policy, such as historical, health, political and societal influences
3. Examine the association between substance use and anti-social behaviours, including criminal offending
4. Analyse attempts by authorities to prevent or reduce substance use and abuse and the difficulties encountered by authorities when attempting to do so

Learning and Teaching Process:

This unit is taught over 13 weeks and totals 3 student contact hours per week.

Students will participate in teaching and learning activities including:

1. Lectures and critical discussion
2. Tutorials and skill development activities
3.  Pre-learning activities
4. Post-learning activities

This unit’s content is delivered to students via a weekly 2-hour lecture and 1-hour tutorial (via Zoom).

In addition to timetabled contact hours, students are expected to do at least6 hours of personal study each week to review lectures and read prescribed and recommended materials for this unit. The weekly individual workload of this unit will be around 9 hours (including teamwork, individual self-study and reading).

Level: 300 level core
Credit Points: 6

Pre-requisites: PSYC2102 Psychology: History, Science and Application 2

Mode of delivery: On-campus and online

Unit Description:

This unit is one of the four core level 300 units in Psychology. The unit builds upon foundational level knowledge of the history and philosophy underpinning the scientific study of psychology as was introduced in PSYC1042 and PSY2102. This unit also complements other units at this level where there is a significant and advanced focus on the application of psychology in other core units (e.g., PSYC3112, PSYC3132) and electives. In this unit, the history and philosophy of both the quantitative and qualitative approaches is presented within the broader historical and philosophical themes of psychology as a discipline. The goals of the unit are to further student’s knowledge and skills in research methods used in psychological research and the application of this research, with a specific emphasis on qualitative research and advanced statistics (e.g., ANOVA and Regression). The unit considers the application of these research methods within the context of important concepts, such as the scientist-practitioner model, evidence-based practice, ontology and epistemology and ethics. This material will be presented in a manner that is scientifically rigorous yet culturally responsive and informs a broader discussion of psychology as both a professional practice in Australia and as an agent of social benefit. This unit is the third, and final unit, in a scaffolded series of units that, taken together, will facilitate the development of a comprehensive understanding of the skills and knowledge associated with research methods in psychology, the history and philosophy of psychology, and their contribution to the application of psychology.

Learning Outcomes:

Learning and Teaching Process:

This unit is taught over 13 weeks and totals approximately 10 to 12 hours of learning activities per week. Students will participate in teaching and learning activities including:

a. Twelve (12) weekly 90 minute tutorials

b. Twelve (12) weekly online 120 minute pre-tutorial learning activities

c. Twelve (12) weekly online 120 minute post-tutorial learning activities

In addition, Coordinators are available for consultation for an hour on a weekly basis.

Level: 300 level core
Credit Points: 6
Pre-requisites: PSYC3102 Psychology: History, Science and Application 3

Mode of delivery: On-campus and online

Unit Description:

This unit is a level 300 core unit in fulfilment of the Bachelor of Psychological Science, Bachelor of Psychological Science and Counselling and the Bachelor of Psychological Science and Criminology.

This unit will introduce key concepts pertaining to individual differences and assessment. It will provide students with an understanding of the psychological characteristics that distinguish and define individuals and how to use assessment of psychological characteristics appropriately. More specifically, this unit will introduce and discuss intelligence, personality, aptitude and values. This unit further examines key concepts of psychological assessment and its psychometric properties and assessing in different settings. Beginning with the history and development of psychological assessment and test theory, the unit will further examine theoretical and methodological issues in the measurement of intelligence, cognition, psychosocial functioning, adaptive behaviour, attitudes, and values. This unit further looks at norms and bias and its link to cultural sensitivity in the use of psychological assessment. Tests of special abilities are also considered, along with measures developed for different settings. Through practical work, students will develop an understanding of the way in which psychologists use the outcomes of psychological assessments.

Learning Outcomes:

Learning and Teaching Process:

This unit is taught over 13 weeks and totals approximately 10 to 12 hours of learning activities per week.

Students will participate in teaching and learning activities including:

a. Twelve (12) weekly online 120 minute pre-tutorial learning activities

b. Twelve (12) weekly 90 minute tutorials

c. Twelve (12) weekly online 120 minute post-tutorial learning activities

In addition, Coordinators are available for consultation for an hour on a weekly basis.

Level: 300 level core / elective
Credit points: 6
Pre-requisites: Successful completion of all level 100 level units and any four 200 level units

Unit Description:

This unit enables students to examine trends and initiatives that impact upon victims in various contexts, with particular reference to the criminal justice system.

The first half of this unit explores the relationship between victims, society, and the criminal justice system. It begins with an examination of how the area of Victimology emerged and some of the ways victims have been conceptualised in relation to criminal behaviour and theories. It explores the [re]discovery of the crime victim, both in academia and in legal processes. This is followed by an examination of victim’s experiences of the criminal justice system and the sorts of legislative and procedural reforms that have arisen in response to an increased awareness of victim’s needs. The role of the media in the social construction of victim ideal types is studied, along with a critical examination of gender and experiences of victimhood, as well as the victimisation of especially vulnerable populations.

The unit also considers the specific forms of victimisation, with a particular focus on crimes against the person. It explores the complexities around victims of sexual crimes before examining intimate partner violence. This is followed by a focus on the issue of institutional abuse and the emergence of interest in victims of international crimes such as human trafficking and terrorism. This unit concludes with a discussion of victim centred response to crime, the role of victim restitution in the aftermath of a crime, and current controversies in Victimology.

Learning Outcomes:

On successful completion of this unit the student should be able to:

Learning and Teaching Process:

This unit is taught over 13 weeks and totals 3 student contact hours per week.

Students will participate in teaching and learning activities including:

1. Lectures and critical discussion
2. Tutorials and skill development activities
3. Online pre-learning activities
4. Online post-learning

Depending on the delivery mode, this unit’s content is delivered to students via a weekly 2-hour lecture and 1-hour tutorial.

In addition to timetabled contact hours, students are expected to do at least 6 hours of personal study each week to review lectures and read prescribed and recommended materials for this unit. The total individual workload of this unit will be around 72 hours (including teamwork, individual self-study and reading).

Level: 300 level core unit

Credit Points: 6

Pre-requisites: PSYC3102 Psychology: History, Science and Application 3

Mode of delivery: On-campus and online

Unit Description:

This unit is one of the core Level 300 units in the undergraduate psychology course. This unit will extend students understanding of psychological processes provided by other level 2 and 3 units by introducing theory and research related to abnormal psychology and interventions for mental health disorders. The aim of the unit is to introduce students to how behaviour is categorised as abnormal and to examine how mental health problems are diagnosed and managed across the lifespan. The unit explores cultural perspectives, history, classification, causes and treatment of psychological disorders. Students will critically examine the contribution of psychological, biological, and socio-cultural factors to the expression of psychopathology. Students will explore how psychological problems are defined and understood by other mental health professions and will learn skills on how to communicate and work with other health professionals. Ethical and legal issues relevant to the provision of mental health services and how professional psychological practice can inform the health sector and increase public safety will also be explored and critically analysed.

Learning Outcomes:

Learning and Teaching Process:

This unit is taught over 13 weeks and totals approximately 10 to 12 hours of learning activities per week.

Students will participate in teaching and learning activities including:

a. Twelve (12) weekly online 120 minute pre-tutorial learning activities

b. Twelve (12) weekly 90-minute live tutorials

c. Twelve (12) weekly online 120 minute post-tutorial learning activities

For live tutorials, students will be enrolled to attend a regular class either a) on campus or b) online via Zoom.

In addition, Coordinators are available for consultation for an hour on a weekly basis.

Level: 200 level core / elective
Credit points: 6
Pre-requisites: Successful completion of any four 100 level units

Unit Description:

This unit develops students’ understanding of Indigenous populations and the crime and criminal justice issues they face. In doing so, it examines the histories and justice processes of Indigenous populations prior to and following western colonisation and the impact of western colonisation on Indigenous peoples. The unit will analyse the reasons underlying Indigenous over-representation in the criminal justice system, as well as the treatment of Indigenous people by government and criminal justice agencies, such as police. This analysis will include consideration of Indigenous offending and victimisation and official responses to crime in Indigenous communities. The unit will also consider attempts to resolve the issues faced by Indigenous populations, including reconciliation and treaty.

Learning Outcomes:

On successful completion of this unit the student should be able to:

1. Demonstrate knowledge of pre-settler Indigenous Australian cultures
2. Analyse the impacts of colonialism on Indigenous populations in historical and contemporary contexts
3. Compare Indigenous and non-Indigenous legal and justice processes
4. Examine critically the nature and effects of western criminal justice policies and practices in relation to Indigenous people in Australia

Learning and Teaching Process:

This unit is taught over 13 weeks and totals 3 student contact hours per week.

Students will participate in teaching and learning activities including:

1. Lectures and critical discussion
2. Tutorials and skill development activities
3. Online pre-learning activities
4. Online post-learning

Depending on the delivery mode, this unit’s content is delivered to students via a weekly 2-hour lecture and 1-hour tutorial.

In addition to timetabled contact hours, students are expected to do at least6 hours of personal study each week to review lectures and read prescribed and recommended materials for this unit. The total individual workload of this unit will be around 72 hours (including teamwork, individual self-study and reading).

Level: 300 level elective
Credit points: 6
Pre-requisites: Successful completion of all level 100 level units and any four 200 level units

Unit Description:

This unit aims to provide the student with an understanding of the philosophies and practices of youth justice. The unit looks holistically at youth crime from a historical perspective through to contemporary approaches to prevent youth offending. Consideration will be given to debates about young people and their status in society including the notions of competence, criminal responsibility, and maturity as central considerations in the youth justice system. The age of criminal responsibility is analysed within a historical and political context. Throughout the unit, theories, legislation, services, institutions, sentencing options, preventative approaches and processing pathways that exist for young offenders will be examined.

Learning Outcomes:

On successful completion of this unit the student should be able to:

Learning and Teaching Process:

This unit is taught over 13 weeks and totals 3 student contact hours per week.

Students will participate in teaching and learning activities including:

1. Lectures and critical discussion
2. Tutorials and skill development activities
3. Online pre-learning activities
4. Online post-learning

This unit’s content is delivered to students via a weekly 2-hour lecture and 1-hour tutorial.

In addition to timetabled contact hours, students are expected to do at least 6 hours of personal study each week to review lectures and read prescribed and recommended materials for this unit. The total individual workload of this unit will be around 72 hours (including teamwork, individual self-study and reading).

Level: 300 level core unit
Credit points: 6

Pre-requisites: PSYC3102 Psychology: History, Science and Application 3

Mode of delivery: On-campus and online

Unit description:

This unit is one of the core Level 300 units in the undergraduate psychology course. This unit will introduce theory and research related to major themes of social and community psychology. The aim of the unit is to provide a solid understanding of the theoretical underpinnings, empirical evidence, and applications of social and community psychology. Key theories and research methods in social psychology are examined across a broad spectrum of issues and topics. The unit explores the history and crises of social psychology, Indigenous psychology and culture, self-identity and knowledge, attributions and attitudes, social influence, prejudice, acculturation, aggressive and pro-social behaviour, and social justice. The unit has a focus on the applications of social and community psychology including the impact of culture on social behaviour.

In this unit, students will develop the capacity to view key psychological processes from a social and community psychology perspective, adding to the breadth of knowledge of psychology provided by other Level 200 and 300 units, laying the foundation for further studies in social and community psychology. The unit will emphasise skills required to comprehend and critically analyse psychological research in a manner that is scientifically rigorous, yet reflexive and culturally responsive. The development of oral communication, interpersonal and reflective skills in this unit will also provide a framework for the application of these skills across diverse groups in later professional contexts and help to prepare students for further study in psychology. The unit also emphasises understanding and demonstration of key elements of public safety including equity and inclusion, and social sustainability. Students will have the opportunity to practice reflexivity through a reflective assessment task, as well as applying knowledge obtained in this unit to themselves and wider real-world contexts, providing foundational skills towards further professional development and practice in a culturally safe manner, to maintain personal and professional resilience.

Learning Outcomes:

Learning and Teaching Process:

This unit is taught over 13 weeks and totals approximately 10 to 12 hours of learning activities per week.

Students will participate in teaching and learning activities including:

a. Twelve (12) weekly online 120 minute pre-tutorial learning activities

b. Twelve (12) weekly 90-minute live tutorials

c. Twelve (12) weekly online 120 minute post-tutorial learning activities

For live tutorials, students will be enrolled to attend a regular class either a) on campus or b) online via Zoom.

In addition, Coordinators are available for consultation for an hour on a weekly basis.

Level: 300 level elective
Credit points: 6
Pre-requisites: Successful completion of all level 100 level units and any four 200 level units

Unit Description:

This unit introduces students to the primary tenets and central topics within the specialist field of forensic psychology. The unit will outline the history and definition of “forensic psychology”, exploring in detail the five key subspecialties within the discipline, and identifying conflicts that arise between psychology and the law. Contemporary theories of offending will be examined in detail and linked to the empirical principles that underlie work with forensic clients.

Learning Outcomes:

Learning and Teaching Process:

This unit is taught over 13 weeks and totals 3 student contact hours per week.

Students will participate in teaching and learning activities including:

1. Lectures and critical discussion
2. Tutorials and skill development activities
3. Online pre-learning activities
4. Online post-learning

This unit’s content is delivered to students via a weekly 2-hour lecture and 1-hour tutorial.

In addition to timetabled contact hours, students are expected to do at least 6 hours of personal study each week to review lectures and read prescribed and recommended materials for this unit. The total individual workload of this unit will be around 72 hours (including teamwork, individual self-study and reading).

Level:

300 level elective – Bachelor of Psychological Science

300 level core – Graduate Diploma of Psychological Science
Credit points: 6
Pre-requisites: PSYC3102 Psychology: History, Science and Application 3

Mode of delivery: Online

Unit Description:

This unit is a capstone unit intended for students to reflect upon and consolidate their knowledge and skills in psychology in relation to theory, method, and evidence. During this unit, students will participate in a service-learning activity of their choice. They will reflect on the application of their foundational knowledge and skills of psychology to this activity and to their future personal and working lives.

Learning Outcomes:

On completion of this unit students should be able to:

a. Critique and apply a coherent and broad knowledge of psychology to addressing everyday personal and occupational issues

b. Apply effective communication and interpersonal skills to convey psychological findings and work with diverse others

c. Apply a critical and reflexive standpoint to uphold ethical principles in the application of psychological knowledge and skills

d. Integrate advanced psychological knowledge and skills to promote resilience and sustainability among diverse individuals and communities in a manner that upholds cultural and public safety

Learning and Teaching Process:

This unit is taught over 13 weeks and totals approximately 10 to 12 hours of learning activities per week.

Students will participate in teaching and learning activities including:

a. Twelve (12) weekly 60-minute interactive self-directed learning preparatory activities

b. Twelve (12) weekly 90-minute live tutorials

c. Service-learning activities