This module will explore a range of topics under the broad heading of paranormal and anomalistic experiences and beliefs using psychological perspectives such as biological, cognitive, social and individual differences to evaluate evidence presented both for and against these experiences and beliefs. Illustrations of topics include: defining parapsychology and its history, the development of paranormal beliefs, factors underlying paranormal beliefs, examples of anomalistic experiences (for example, ESP psychokinesis and out-of-body experiences), methodological and procedural issues and theories and implications of parapsychology.

A case study - students will choose a case study from a list supplied, based on a real-world example or portrayal (case or TV programme), showing paranormal/anomalous activity, and they will be expected to apply chosen psychological perspectives and methodological enquiry that have been covered in the course material to the example to provide a balanced (sceptic versus believer) analysis of it to evaluate why the activity may or may not be an example of paranormal/anomalous activity. This assessment will assess all 4 learning outcomes and be weighted at 100% of the overall module mark.

Students will also be guided to complete formative tasks to receive peer and tutor formative feedback, which will take the form of set pre-lecture tasks and reading and in-class activities to inform discussions and evaluations of examples of paranormal/anomalous activity other than that used for the case study.

Scheduled Learning and Teaching Activities (30 hours):
These will incorporate tutor led lectures, module/assessment support sessions and tutor- and student-led interactive activities and discussions. These will include video, debates, paper-based exercises, case study analyses and use of technology to measure responses. In class, approximately half of the time will be spent on lectures, and approximately half spent on other workshop activities. During the course of the module, students will also be expected to complete a series of tutor guided readings, tasks and investigations which will form the basis of some class-based activities and discussions, which will assist in the submitted assessment. Students will also have the opportunity to attend module/assessment support sessions throughout the course of the module.

Guided Independent Study (170 hours):
Preparing for lectures/workshops other than the specific reading provided for each week.
Guided independent reading including research (using library and web facilities) around specific topic areas to develop understanding and evaluation of the topics introduced in the lectures
Assessment Preparation

Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of parapsychology and anomalous experiences and beliefs by critically discussing relevant theory and contemporary research from a range of psychological perspectives.
Knowledge and Understanding;

IInterpret and evaluate evidence both for and against parapsychological and anomalous experiences and beliefs.
Analysis;
Enquiry

Discuss and evaluate the methods used to investigate paranormal and anomalous phenomena.
Analysis
Application

Reflect on, and apply, acquired knowledge to identify and critically evaluate possible explanations for a real-world example of parapsychology/anomalous experience
Application
Enquiry
Problem Solving
Reflection

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, Kahoot, Padlet, Turning Point and Turnitin. Also technical support and the use of the BioPac, Eye-tracking, VR equipment and Simulation Suite

Cardeña, E., Lynn, S.J. & Krippner, S. (Eds.)(2000). Varieties of Anomalous Experience: Examining the Scientific Evidence. Washington, DC: American Psychological Association.

French, C.C. & Stone, A. (2014). Anomalistic Psychology: Exploring Paranormal Belief and Experience. Basingstoke: Palgrave MacMillan.

Groome, D. & Roberts, R. (Eds.)(2016). Parapsychology: The Science of Unusual Experience (2nd Edition). London: Psychology Press.

Henry, J. (Ed.)(2005). Parapsychology: Research on Exceptional Experiences. Hove, East Sussex: Routledge.

Hines, T. (2003).¿Pseudoscience and the Paranormal (2nd¿Edition). Amherst, NY: Prometheus.

Hoggart, S., & Hutchinson, M. (1995).¿Bizarre Beliefs. London: Richard Cohen Books.

Irwin, H.J (2009). The Psychology of Paranormal Belief: A Researchr’s Handbook. Hatfield: University of Hertfordshire Press.

Irwin, H. J., & Watt, C. (2007).¿An Introduction to Parapsychology¿(5th Edition). Jefferson, NC: McFarland & Co.

Marks, D. (2000). The Psychology of the Psychic (2nd Edition). UK: Prometheus Books.

Ramakrishna Roa, K. (Ed.)(2001). Basic Research in Prarapsychology (2nd Edition). US: McFarland and Company, Inc.

None

The truth is out there? This course will evaluate the psychological theories and explanations for paranormal and anomalistic experiences including but not limited to ghosts, possessions, out of body experiences, and psychic/telekinetic abilities. We will explore how Psychologists have conducted research into the phenomena covered and consider the real-world impact of this research. The purpose of the module is not to change your mind or make you believe a certain thing (or not) but to explore how we might interpret paranormal and anomalistic phenomena and experiences.