PSYCHOLOGY
Course Duration
2 Years
Examination Board
IBDP
Entry Criteria
Grade 7 in Spanish GCSE; Grade 4 in both English and Maths GCSE; and at least 3 other qualifications at Grade 4 or above.
Overview
The IB Psychology course offers an exciting opportunity to explore the fundamental theories underpinning much of Psychology. The core focuses on three different approaches to understanding behaviour: the biological, cognitive and sociocultural approaches. Students will study and critically evaluate the knowledge, concepts, theories and research that have developed the understanding in these fields.
Alongside the acquisition of psychological knowledge, the course focuses on exploring a range of research methods used by psychologists to test their observations and hypotheses. Students will be required to think creatively as they apply what they have learnt to new scenarios. This includes the design, implementation, analysis and evaluation of the students’ own investigation.
What will I study during the course duration?
Core subjects
Biological approach
- the relationship between the brain and behaviour.
- hormones and pheromones and their effects on behaviour.
- the relationship between genetics and behaviour.
- the role of animal research in understanding human behaviour.
Cognitive approach
- cognitive processing.
- reliability of cognitive processes.
- emotion and cognition.
- cognitive processing in a technological (digital/modern) world.
Sociocultural approach
- the individual and the group.
- cultural origins of behaviour and cognition.
- cultural influences on individual behaviour.
- the influence of globalisation on individual behaviour.
Approaches to research
The study of psychology is evidence based and has evolved through a variety of different research approaches, both qualitative and quantitative. As students are exposed to research it is important that they understand the advantages and limitations of different approaches in order to critically evaluate the contribution of research studies to the understanding of human behaviour. Asking questions, challenging assumptions and critically assessing the methods used by researchers are integral skills in the study of psychology.
Options
Abnormal
- factors influencing diagnosis
- aetiology of abnormal psychology
- treatment of disorders.
Human Relationships
- personal relationships
- group dynamics
- social responsibility.
How will I be assessed?
External:
- Paper 1 (2 hours) 3 short answer questions and one essay question on the core content [40%]
- Paper 2 (2 hours) 2 questions on the option subjects [20%]
- Paper 3 (1 hour) 3 short answer questions on approaches to researches [20%]
Internal:
Experimental study (20 hours) experimental study designed and undertaken, psychological report written [20%]
Career opportunities and Future study
- Medicine
- Healthcare
- Law
- Business
- Media
- Human resources
- Marketing
- Science
- Research
- Police force
- Education
- Human resources