This module introduces students to psychology and behavioural science, examining how these disciplines help increase understanding of human thought, emotion, and behaviour in diverse contexts. It will explore both foundational psychological theories and applied behavioural science approaches relevant to areas such as health, sport, criminology, and social behaviour. This module is designed to consolidate and broaden prior learning while providing practical insights for real-world application

The module content will cover the following areas:

• The evolution of psychology and behavioural science – from philosophy to empirical research.
• Core Perspectives in Psychology: Biological, Developmental, Cognitive, Social, and Individual Differences, along with historical perspectives such as Humanism, Behaviourism, and Psychodynamic approaches.
• Behavioural Science in Action: How behavioural science informs decision-making, behaviour change, and societal outcomes (e.g., policy, health, sports performance, forensic psychology).
• Interdisciplinary Connections: How psychological and behavioural science concepts apply across disciplines (e.g., sports performance, criminology, forensic biology, and social behaviour).
• Ethical considerations and professional guidelines in psychology and behavioural science (e.g., British Psychological Society, Behavioural Science in Policy and Practice).
• The role of data and experimental methods in psychological and behavioural science research.

The module will also introduce some of the core academic skills required for academic study. Including:

• Learning to use and navigate a range of digital spaces specific to your subject
• Understanding academic conduct and conventions for communicating information ·
• Finding and using a range of academic sources relating to your subject

The module will explore how perceptions, personal circumstances and technology can shape our health. You will investigate areas such as technology, health promotion and inequality and how these can impact individual health experiences and outcomes, as well as considering models of health that inform belief systems.

You will also examine the role of biological concepts in the way our bodies’ function. The relationship between diseases and physiological processes within the context of organ systems will be examined.  

Indicative content:

• Defining health in relation to the individual, society and social change
• The importance of the biomedical, social and biopsychosocial models of health 
• Investigate factors that influence health outcomes
• The role and importance of health promotion in society
• Individual health behaviour theories and applications
• The future of health and healthcare 
• The structure of a generalised human cell and organelles
• Cellular transport processes including diffusion and osmosis
• Specialised cells and tissues in the human body
• The role of hormones and enzymes
• Human body systems
• Homeostasis
• The role of genetics in human health and disease
• Micro-organisms as a cause of infectious disease
• The biological basis of routine investigations
• Advancing digital and academic skills introduced during Term 1
• Developing research and information literacy in relation to your subject
• Creating an academic poster on a chosen research paper

This module explores the principles and practices of leadership, coaching, and change management within diverse professional contexts, including education, social work, sports management, policing, and business. Students will build self-awareness, develop coaching and leadership skills, and learn how to manage individual, team, and organizational change effectively. By combining theory with practical application, the module prepares students to navigate real-world challenges in their chosen fields.

Module Content:

• Self-Awareness and Leadership Development:
  • Identifying personal leadership styles and growth areas.
  • Reflecting on the role of self-awareness in influencing others.
• Building Professional Relationships:
  • Techniques for effective communication and boundary setting.
  • Coaching and mentoring for individual development.
• Understanding Group Dynamics:
  • Strategies for managing team change and fostering collaboration.
  • Addressing conflict and building resilience in groups.
• Leading Organizational Change:
  • Influencing culture and driving sustained change.
  • Ethical considerations and professional boundaries in leadership.