This module explores a range of contemporary psychological issues and societal challenges, both nationally and globally, and supports students in critically evaluating and applying psychological theory and research to understand these real-world concerns. The specific issues examined will vary annually to reflect emerging events and current debates but may include topics such as the portrayal of psychology in the media, the role of green spaces in promoting health and wellbeing, rising prevalence rates of particular conditions (e.g., Autism Spectrum Disorders, PTSD), and the psychological implications of technological advancement.

Students will select one from a range of case studies and complete a two-part assessment comprising of:

1. A narrated PowerPoint presentation which will address a defined case study which students will select from a range of case studies - each one being based on the module’s topic area. Students will critically integrate and apply their psychological knowledge to understand and address key points within the case study and communicate this in an appropriate manner to a defined non-specialist audience.
2. Students are required to submit a reflective commentary in which they critically evaluate their own knowledge, assumptions, and decision-making in relation to the narrated PowerPoint, with a focus on professional development. Students will identify gaps in their knowledge, explore future learning needs, and consider how these can be addressed to support their ongoing development.

For this assessment, students may choose to submit either a 500-word written reflection or a 5-minute recorded narrated PowerPoint presentation.

Students will also be guided to complete formative tasks to receive peer and tutor formative feedback, which will take the form of tasks, reading and in-class activities to inform discussions and evaluations of how psychological theory and research can be applied in real-world contexts and how best to communicate with non-specialist audiences.

Sessions will include lectures, workshop activities, discussions, groupwork and drop-in support sessions.

1. Integrate and apply knowledge and understanding of psychological theories and concepts to analyse and interpret contemporary real-world issues.

Application and Problem Solving

2. Demonstrate knowledge and some critical understanding of psychological theories and research evidence relevant to contemporary societal issues, recognising their strengths, limitations, and implications.

Knowledge and understanding

3. Communicate psychological ideas and evidence-based arguments clearly and appropriately to non-specialist audiences.

Communication

4. Critically reflect on personal knowledge, assumptions, and decision-making in relation to contemporary real-world issues, identifying gaps and future learning needs for professional development.

Personal Development & Entrepreneurship Reflection

Access to psychology facilities and resources, including laboratory spaces, specialist software, equipment, and associated technical support.

Resources may vary annually according to the module’s specific topic areas and the relevant expertise of the academic team.

Davey, G. (2023) Applied psychology. 2nd ed. Chichester: BPS Blackwell.
Provides an overview of how psychological theory and research can be applied to real-world issues, directly supporting this module’s focus on analysing contemporary societal challenges and communicating psychology beyond academic contexts.

Graf, P. and Dozois, D.J.A. (eds) (2021) Handbook on the state of the art in applied psychology. Hoboken, N.J: Wiley Blackwell.
Provides an overview of applied psychology research across clinical, health, social, and organisational domains, directly supporting this module’s focus on critically evaluating and applying psychological evidence to contemporary real-world challenges.

Lund, N., Hackney, M., Kinmond, K., Oakley, L., Haire, A. (2021) Contemporary Debates in Psychology. London: Routledge
Explores contemporary debates across psychology, providing critical perspectives that align with this module’s emphasis on evaluating current issues, emerging challenges, and the application of psychological theory and research to real-world contexts.

*Note: Many of the texts chosen for this module will be peer-reviewed journal articles on the most recent knowledge published in the areas that we study. All the lectures will include references for further reading

Psychology sits at the heart of understanding the complex issues shaping our world today and this module brings those challenges into focus. You won’t just learn about contemporary problems; you’ll discover how psychological theory and research can be used to understand and address them. This module shows how psychology can make a tangible difference in everyday life - for example, by exploring designing dementia-friendly environments to tackling cyberbullying, and from understanding rising mental-health needs to using technology to enhance wellbeing.

Along the way, you'll build key knowledge and skills that will elevate your studies and future employability- this may include critical thinking, clear communication, and real-world problem-solving. This is your chance to explore the cutting edge of psychology and learn how to apply it where it matters most.