Welcome to Unit 1.

This unit will provide an introduction to the broad field of psychology and the many approaches that psychologists take to understanding human behavior.

We will consider how psychologists conduct scientific research, with an overview of some of the most important approaches used and topics studied by psychologists, and also consider the variety of fields in which psychologists work and the careers that are available to people with psychology degrees.

I expect that you may find that at least some of your preconceptions about psychology will be challenged and changed, and you will learn that psychology is a field that will provide you with new ways of thinking about your own thoughts, feelings, and actions.

In the materials section ( Click on the tab above) you will find a video that gives a brief outline of the main concepts we will cover in this unit. It is vital that you then follow these videos by reading the books in the ” Study Material section” and also watch the videos of various Psychology Professionals giving their views in the “Video material section”.

In the Case study section you will see how Psychology works in action.

When you have fully absorbed the information, you can then proceed to Assignment 1. You will see 3 questions and are required to answer “ONLY ONE” of the questions. The word count for this assignment is 1000 words.

I am available to answer any queries you may have. Please email me john@psychology.ie..

I wish you the best of luck and hope you enjoy the learning over the next year.

John Crimmins ( MSc, PG Dip. Psychology. Trinity College, Dublin)

Course Director.