NCEA Level 2 Psychology
Course Description
Head of Faculty - Kaihautuu: Mr B. Silk.
Psychology is a captivating subject that delves into the complexities of human behaviour and the workings of the mind. This NCEA Level Psychology course offers students a unique opportunity to better understand themselves and others. Exploring topics like personality, cognition, and social interactions, students develop valuable skills that foster self-awareness, empathy, and effective communication.
Critical thinking and analytical skills are honed through the evaluation and interpretation of scientific research, statistical data, and empirical evidence. This course equips students with the ability to analyse information, enhancing their problem-solving and decision-making capabilities. Evidence-based reasoning is encouraged, providing a solid foundation for academic pursuits and real-life situations.
Students will look at 3 key approaches to Psychology and then apply their understanding of those approaches to a specified behaviour. Students will conduct their own Psychological research following a scientific method. Students will look at how a key debate in Psychology has changed over time and then students will look at ethics - using an unethical study to discuss improvements.
Studying psychology opens doors to diverse career paths, serving as a stepping stone for professions such as counseling, social work, human resources, education, marketing, and research. This course provides a strong basis for personal and professional growth in an ever-changing world that highly values interpersonal skills, adaptability, and emotional intelligence.
Course Overview
Term 1
91844 – Examine different psychological approaches used to explain a behaviour (6 credits) 7 weeks
Term 2
91846 - Conduct psychological research with guidance (4 credits) 10 weeks
Term 3
91845 – Examine how a Psychological debate has changed over time (3 credits)
91848 with an exploration of Ethical issues in psychological research (3 credits)
Term 4
91848 with an exploration of Ethical issues in psychological research (3 credits)
Recommended Prior Learning
It is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED that students taking Psychology have a good English ability and an inquisitive mind. Psychology at Level 2 relies heavily on understanding Scientific research, reading and writing. An ability to think for themselves and apply knowledge to scientific theories and concepts is also a must.
Contributions and Equipment/Stationery
A personal laptop is essential for this course. If obtaining one is a barrier, please contact Ben Silk, the Kaihautu/Head of Social Sciences, at .
Pathway
Interest in Psychology is on the up and places for tertiary courses are very competitive (especially for specialised areas such as clinical psychology). This course would start your journey in psychology and allow you to gain a foundational knowledge of what future tertiary courses will entail.
Assessment Information
Research and report writing required in all standardsCredit Information
You will be assessed in this course through all or a selection of the standards listed below.
This course is approved for University Entrance.
External
NZQA Info
Psychology 2.1 - Examine different psychological approaches used to explain a behaviour
NZQA Info
Psychology 2.2 - Examine how a psychological debate has changed over time
NZQA Info
Psychology 2.3 - Conduct psychological research with guidance
NZQA Info
Psychology 2.5 - Examine ethical issues in psychological practice