PSYC3687: Psychology in the Workplace

• 60 credits from Level 2 Psychology PSYC2232 - Advanced Research Methods and Statistics

• None

• None

• To offer an understanding of a working environment in which psychological knowledge is relevant via a work placement
• To help students develop strong organisational and interpersonal skills, and understand how to address the needs of individuals
• To learn to devise and develop solutions and provide reports on psychology-related, work-relevant problems

• A small number of lectures prior to the beginning of the 3rd year giving guidance on key skills required for assessment, as well as finding and securing placements.
• Placement of approx 3hrs a week in the workplace every week for at least 10 weeks or equivalent amount of time
• The student will keep a journal of their own progress in their placement and will reflect on their experiences in light of their psychological understanding and knowledge
• The staff in the placement organisation will act as the main source of guidance during the placement but the students will also be able to discuss progress with the module co-ordinator whenever necessary

Subject-specific Knowledge:

• A broad understanding of many of the key aspects of how psychological knowledge relates to the workplace

Subject-specific Skills:

• Will know the responsibilities and appropriate conduct for an employee in their placement organisation
• Will know how to give (and take) feedback on Psychology issues
• Will be able to communicate Psychology generally to a lay audience
• Will know how to prepare reports on work-relevant issues

Key Skills:

• Be able to communicate effectively, both one to one and with small groups
• Be able to understand the needs of individuals
• Be able to use interpersonal skills when dealing with colleagues
• Be able to improvise when necessary
• Be able to organise, prioritise and negotiate
• Will know how to work with others in teams

• This module includes lectures and a work placement
• The initial lectures provide an introduction to the work placements, covering topics such as what to expect from the placement, how to find placements, and guidance on how to reflect on their skills and experience.
• The work placement allows the student to develop a range of interpersonal skills and the professional competencies expected of a graduate level employee
• Student performance will be summatively assessed through a Reflective Journal on the placement and an Employers Assessment
• The Reflective Journal will provide the means for students to reflect on their own personal development, on their experience of work and to demonstrate written communication skills
• The Reflective Journal will enable students to demonstrate their understanding of how psychological concepts relate to the workplace, as well as their ability to communicate to a lay audience
• The Employers Assessment is an independent corroboration of progress, including the student's approach, attitude, appreciation of key skills and performance in the placement

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