This module examines how psychological theory and research can be applied to a range of contemporary settings, experiences, and real-world problems. Students will explore key applications of psychology and evaluate the evidence base that supports them. A central focus of the module is understanding how psychological insights are interpreted and used by audiences outside the discipline - such as policymakers, designers, educators, marketers, and the general public.

The module will include:

Links to a wide range of psychology theories and the World Health Organisation sustainable development goals (SDGs)
Evaluation of contemporary research at the forefront of the discipline
Application of psychological research and theory to contemporary national and global issues
Consideration and practice in applying the BPS code of conduct
Looking at examples of how psychology evidence can be shared with arrange of non-specialist groups
Reflective opportunities for professional development

The 3000-word written portfolio assessment will record students’ critical application of psychological theory, research, and professional skills to real-world contexts, demonstrating how psychology can be used to understand and address complex human issues while reflecting on their own professional growth. Students will select a real-world context to which they want to critically apply their psychological knowledge.

The portfolio will consist of 4 sections.

1. A critical analysis of a real-world issue demonstrating how psychological theories and transferable skills can be applied to develop evidence-based solutions (LO1)
2. An evaluation of current psychological research, theories, and professional standards (e.g. BPS) that explains their relevance and consequences in the selected real-world context (LO2)
3. A reflective account of how you have translated psychological knowledge into accessible communication for both specialist and non-specialist audiences relevant to their real-world context (LO3).
4. A reflection on ongoing professional development that supports the student’s ability to apply psychology effectively and responsibly in their real-world context (LO4).

Students will complete guided formative activities, including preparatory reading and in-class tasks, through which they will receive peer and tutor feedback. These activities will support discussion and evaluation of how psychological theory and research can be applied in real-world contexts and communicated effectively to non-specialist audiences.

Taught Sessions will include lectures, workshop activities, discussions, groupwork, these will be supported by drop-in support sessions.

1. Apply psychological theories and transferable skills to analyse contemporary real-world issues and devise evidence-based solutions relevant to applied real-world contexts.

Application and Problem Solving

2. Demonstrate detailed knowledge and a systematic, critical understanding of contemporary psychological research, theories, and professional standards (e.g. the BPS Code of Conduct), and evaluate their societal impact within a chosen real-world context.

Knowledge and understanding

3. Translate and communicate psychological knowledge and research evidence in accessible and appropriate ways for specialist and non-specialist audiences relevant to a chosen real-world context.

Communication

4. Reflect on personal and professional development needs related to the ethical and responsible application of psychology in real-world contexts and identify strategies for ongoing development.

Personal development & entrepreneurship

Access to specialist equipment such as eye-tracking and eyeblink systems, Biopac, driving simulator, virtual reality, and cold pressor equipment.

Access to simulation facilities and associated platforms (e.g., Virti).

Huffman, K., & Sanderson, C.A., (2019) Real World Psychology. Wiley.
Illustrates how core psychological concepts are applied to everyday behaviours and real-world problems, directly supporting the module’s learning outcomes on applying psychological theory and evidence to contemporary issues and communicating psychology to specialist and non-specialist audiences.

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 to specialist and non-specialist audiences.

*Note: Reading lists will be shared with students and are updated regularly to reflect contemporary research in the topics covered - these will mainly consist of peer-reviewed journal articles. All the lectures will include references for further reading.

Can you spot psychology in the real world?

This module explores how psychological theory and research are applied across a variety of everyday settings and situations. You will examine the evidence underpinning different areas of psychology and discover how psychological insights are used - sometimes subtly - by audiences outside the discipline.

Topics vary each year, but indicative content includes exploring how physical spaces are designed to influence behaviour and emotion, or the techniques companies use to persuade us to buy their products.

This module will help you develop the skills to identify, understand, and critically evaluate the many real-world contexts in which psychological theory is applied.