The module explores how psychology can be applied to a variety of settings, experiences, and situations in the real-world. Students will learn about applications of psychological theory and explore research evidence which underpin a variety of areas and consider how they are harnessed by non-psychological audiences. The topics each year are subject to change, however, could include content such as how physical space is designed to influence behaviour and emotion, the tools used by social media to encourage use of their platforms and how companies try and convince us to buy their products. The module aims to help students develop the ability to identify and understand the real-world contexts in which psychological theory and research can apply and consider how we can communication this application to non-psychology audiences.

The 3000-word written portfolio assessment will record the development, research and outcome of students working towards presenting a final piece to a (virtual) exhibition on ‘how psychology can be applied to the real-world’

The coursework will involve students working through a portfolio and completing preparation activities and a final summary documenting their final exhibition piece and the ideas behind it.

• The preparation portfolio workbook will include an identification of real-world scenario (500 words-LO1 & LO2) as well as an annotated bibliography of relevant research (1500 words- LO3)
• The final exhibition piece can take multiple forms (e.g. An image, a poster, a short video, a blog, a podcast). The cohorts' pieces will be presented on a (virtual) exhibition made available for open access.
• Students will be asked to provide a final summary of the exhibition and ideas behind it intended for a non-specialist audience (up to 1000 words- LO1 & LO4) as part of their written assessment.

Formative Feedback
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.

Scheduled Learning and Teaching Activities (32 hours):
These sessions will incorporate lectures, workshop activities, module/assessment support sessions and tutor- and student-led interactive activities and discussions. These may include video, debates, paper-based exercises, case study analyses and use of technology to measure responses. In class, approximately half of the time in these sessions will be spent on lectures and approximately half spent on other workshop activities.

Guided Independent Study (168 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.

1. Demonstrate knowledge and critical understanding of how psychological theory can be applied in real-world contexts
Knowledge and Understanding, Learning

2. Identify and justify a real-world context in which psychological theory and research can be applied. Learning, Problem Solving

3. Critically evaluate research and theory of the applications of psychological theory in real-world contexts. Communication, Analysis

4. Effectively communicate the ways in which psychological theory and research can be applied in a real-world context to a non-specialist audience.
Communication, Application

Blackboard VLE. Library access to relevant textbooks, journals, ebooks. Internet access to relevant websites and online databases. Technical support and the use of the Eye-tracking, VR and biopac equipment and Simulation Suite

Bekerian, D., & Levey, A., (2012) Applied Psychology: Putting theory into practice. Oxford University Press.
Huffman, K., & Sanderson, C.A., (2019) Real World Psychology. Wiley.
Pomerantz, J.R., & Gernsbacher, M.A. (Eds) (2014) Psychology and the Real World. United States: Worth Publishers.

Pre-requisites None
Co-requisites None
Admissions requirements Be registered on the BSc (Hons) Psychology award (including placement year and foundation year versions) or BSc Hons Psychological Studies (including placement year and foundation year versions)
Disqualified combinations None

Can you spot the psychology in the real-world? The module explores applications of psychology in a variety of settings and situations in the real world. You will learn about psychological theory and research evidence underpin a variety of areas and how they are harnessed by non-psychological audiences. The topics each year may vary, however indicative content includes exploring how physical space is designed to influence behaviour and emotion or the tricks companies use to convince us to buy their products. The module aims to help students identify and understand the real-world contexts in which psychological theory applies to.