VCE Psychology
Subject Overview
Psychology is a multifaceted discipline that seeks to describe, explain, understand and predict human behaviour and mental processes. It includes many sub-fields of study that explore and seek to better understand how individuals, groups, communities and societies think, feel and act.
There are many different approaches to the study of psychology. VCE Psychology applies a biopsychosocial approach to the systematic study of mental processes and behaviour. Within this approach, different perspectives, models and theories are considered. Students develop their understanding of human behaviour and mental processes and the interrelated nature of biological, psychological and social factors.
Unit 1 & 2
In Unit 1 & 2 you will study the following concepts:
- What influences psychological development?
- How are mental processes and behaviour influenced by the brain?
- How are people influenced to behave in particular ways?
- What influences a person’s perception of the world?
- How do scientific investigations develop understanding of influences on perception and behaviour?
Unit 3 & 4
In Unit 3 & 4 you will study the following concepts:
- How does the nervous system enable psychological functioning?
- How do people learn and remember?
- How does sleep affect mental process and behaviour?
- What influences mental wellbeing and mental disorder?
- How is scientific inquiry used to investigate mental processes and psychological functioning?
Types of Assessment
- Analysis and evaluation of an experiment or case study
- Data analysis of generated primary and/or collated secondary data
- Reflective annotations of a logbook of practical activities
- Scientific investigation, including the generalisation, analysis and evaluation of primary data
- Comparison and evaluation of psychological concepts, methodologies and methods
Class Activities
- Data Analysis
- Group work
- Tests
- Quizzes
- Class discussions
- Logbook activities associated with course concepts
Careers that may link to this subject area
- Allied Health (Occupational Therapy, Rehabilitation Counselling, Speech Therapy, Audiology)
- Criminologist
- Human Resources
- Nursing
- Psychologist (all domains)
- Social Worker
- Teacher
- Any profession that requires you to work with people!