This module aims to provide students with an introduction to, and exploration of, some of the major psychological contributions towards the understanding of contemporary and key issues in the role of psychology in the Criminal Justice System. Sessions will focus on a critical evaluation of the role of psychology and the relevance and validity of current psychological research in a number of key areas including the investigative process, interviewing and testimony, the court room, judge and jury decision making, and sentencing.

Case study analysis (learning outcomes 1-4) based on a factual case highlighted within the Criminal Justice System. Students will be expected to apply theories and approaches from the psychological contexts of investigation and the Criminal Justice System that have been covered in the course material to the case details to explain why issues surrounding the case might have occurred. This will include analysing the contribution the research can make towards explanations and recommendations for improved procedures and practice based on the topic areas selected.

Formative assessment
Tutor feedback and peer discussion. Feedback through class-based activities and supplementary reading given to prepare for each session will be provided. There will also be 3 in-class drop-in sessions across the semester where students can get assessment preparation focussed feedback. Independent learning and practice case-study activities will also be included.

Scheduled Learning and Teaching Activities (32 hours): A combination of tutor and student-led lecture sessions and independent learning alongside drop-in module/assessment support sessions.

Interactive lectures: There will be a series of lectures, discussions, debates, practical exercises and case study illustrations. In class, approximately half of the time will be spent on lectures, and approximately half spent on other activities. Students will also be given a series of independent learning tasks, which will form the basis of some of the discussions and debates in class.

Guided Independent Study (168 hours): The independent learning hours which will consist of a combination of guided further reading material, and completing tasks for session preparation, and for assessment preparation.

Recognise the use of a range of relevant theories within psychology and their application to contexts within the Criminal Justice System
Enquiry
Knowledge and Understanding

Evaluate the contribution of psychological research in explaining relevant issues within factual representations of the Criminal Justice System
Analysis
Application
Problem solving

Identify and reflect on possible alternative psychological approaches to Criminal Justice System related issues
Communication
Reflection

Demonstrate an understanding of the critical concepts, ideas and issues within the topic areas chosen
Knowledge and Understanding

VLE package e.g. BlackBoard; Library access to relevant textbooks, journals, ebooks; Internet access to relevant websites and online databases; Technology such as media player, Turning Point and Turnitin.

Bowling, B. & Phillips, C. (2002). Racism, Crime and Justice. Harlow: Longman.

Howitt, D. (2018). Introduction to Forensic and Criminal Psychology (6th Edition). Harlow: Pearson Education.

Gavin, H. (2018). Criminological and Forensic Psychology (2nd Edition). London: Sage.

Kapardis, A. (2014). Psychology and Law: A Critical Introduction (4th Edition). Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.

How can psychology explain and influence issues within the Criminal Justice System? This module will provide you with an introduction to, and evaluation of, some of the ways in which psychological research and theories can help us to understand contemporary and key issues that we see in Criminal Justice cases in a number of areas including policing, interviewing and in the court room, setting the scene for explorations into criminal behaviours and impacts in later modules.