BackPSY204 Social Psychology: Course Outline and Study Guide
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Course Overview: Social Psychology (PSY204)
Introduction to Social Psychology
Social Psychology explores the dynamic relationship between individual psychological processes and the broader social environment. This course builds on foundational psychology concepts and introduces students to the application of social psychological theory in understanding self-perception, attitudes, group dynamics, and social motives.
Key Focus: How individuals think, feel, and behave in social contexts.
Applications: Understanding cultural responsiveness, group processes, and interpersonal relationships.
Course Delivery
Blended Learning: Combination of on-campus workshops and online materials.
Weekly Structure: 1 hour of online learning materials and 2 hours of on-campus workshops per week, over 12 weeks.
Main Topics Covered
Self: Exploration of self-concept, identity, and self-perception in social contexts.
Inter-Individual Processes: Attitudes, impression formation, and close relationships.
Group Processes: Group dynamics, conformity, leadership, and group decision-making.
Social Motives: Motivation, prosocial behavior, and aggression.
Course Structure and Learning Outcomes
Course Level and Prerequisites
Level: 200 (Developing) – Suitable for students in their second or third year.
Prerequisites: PSY100 and PSY101 (Introductory Psychology courses).
Learning Outcomes
Explain key concepts, theories, and research in social psychology.
Apply social psychology and cultural responsiveness to individuals, groups, and societal issues.
Discuss and evaluate the scientific method and methodological issues in social psychology research.
Communicate psychological knowledge effectively in written and oral formats.
Professional Standards Mapping
Comprehend and apply a broad body of psychological knowledge using a scientific approach.
Apply knowledge in a culturally appropriate and sensitive manner.
Analyze and critique theory and research in psychology.
Demonstrate self-directed scholarly inquiry.
Assessment Overview
Assessment Tasks
Task | Type | Weight | Length | Submission |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1. Written Piece: Cultural Responsiveness in Society | Individual | 30% | 600 words | Online |
2. Critical Essay | Individual | 45% | 1,900 words | Online |
3. End of Trimester Examination | Individual | 25% | 1 hour | Online |
Assessment 1: Focuses on applying social psychology to cultural responsiveness in organizations and societal issues.
Assessment 2: Critical essay requiring literature review, argument development, and balanced critique of alternative views.
Assessment 3: Multiple-choice and short-answer exam covering factual knowledge, application, and critical thinking.
Resources and Study Requirements
Prescribed Textbook
Title: Social Psychology
Authors: Aronson, E., Wilson, T. D., Sommers, S. R., Page-Gould, E., Lewis, N., & Barlow, F. K.
Publisher: Pearson Australia
Year: 2026
Additional readings and resources will be provided via the course Canvas site.
Directed Study Hours
Total workload: 150 hours (including directed study, self-directed learning, and assessment tasks).
Student workload is calculated at 12.5 hours per unit (12 units total).
Academic Integrity and Policies
Academic integrity is essential; plagiarism, collusion, and outsourcing are strictly prohibited.
Assessments may be checked using Turnitin for originality.
Late submission penalties apply as per university policy.
Eligibility for supplementary assessment is based on final mark (47% to 49.4%).
Support and Enquiries
Contact teaching staff or Course Coordinator for course-specific questions.
Student Central is available for general support and enquiries.
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