This engaging elective introduces students to the scientific study of human behaviour and mental processes. Psychology helps us understand how people think, feel, and behave in a variety of situations, and this course provides students with foundational knowledge and inquiry skills that can be applied in real-world contexts.
Throughout the semester, students will explore key areas of psychology, including forensic psychology, sports psychology, mental health, and the science of sleep, while developing an understanding of the research methods psychologists use to investigate human behaviour. The course builds scientific thinking, ethical awareness, and critical analysis skills, and provides excellent preparation for students interested in studying VCE Psychology.
Students will explore how psychologists study human behaviour (what people do) and mental processes (how people think and feel). This includes examining how brain the functions, emotions, cognition, and social influences shape behaviour. Students will also be introduced to major psychological perspectives and theories that explain individual and group behaviour.
Students will learn how psychologists apply scientific methods to develop hypotheses, conduct investigations, and draw conclusions. They will design and carry out their own psychological investigation, learning how to collect, analyse, and interpret data using ethical and critical thinking approaches.
This unit explores how psychology is applied in legal and criminal justice settings. Students will investigate how forensic psychologists assist in criminal profiling, understanding stalking behaviours, analysing crime scene evidence, and assessing the reliability of eyewitness testimony.
Students will examine how psychological factors such as motivation, confidence, anxiety, and concentration affect athletic performance. They will explore how athletes use mental strategies to enhance focus, resilience, and performance in competitive settings.
This topic explores the causes and effects of common mental health conditions, the influence of mental health on relationships and daily life, and the importance of early intervention and support. Students will also examine stigma surrounding mental health and how it can affect help-seeking behaviours.
Students will study the importance of sleep for healthy brain function and psychological wellbeing. They will examine the stages of sleep, the effects of sleep deprivation on memory, attention, mood, and physical health, and the role of sleep in maintaining cognitive performance.
Formal Written Test: Assesses students’ understanding of key psychological theories and applications.
Student-Led Investigation Poster: Students design and present their own psychological investigation using appropriate research methods and display their findings in a scientific poster format.
This elective provides an excellent foundation for VCE Psychology and supports future pathways in health, education, law, social sciences, and other people-focused fields.
