Outcome 3
On completion of this unit the student should be able to investigate and communicate a substantiated response to a question related to brain function and/or development, including reference to at least two contemporary psychological studies and/or research techniques.
To achieve this outcome the student will draw on key knowledge outlined in Area of Study 3 and relevant key science skills on pages 11 and 12 of the study design.
Key knowledge
- the characteristics of effective science communication: accuracy of psychological information; clarity of explanation of psychological concepts, ideas and models; contextual clarity in terms of importance and implications of findings; conciseness and coherence; and appropriateness for purpose and audience
- the psychological concepts specific to the investigation: definitions of key terms; use of appropriate psychological terminology, conventions and representations
- the use of data representations, models and theories in organising and explaining observed phenomena and psychological concepts, and their limitations
- the nature of evidence and information: distinction between opinion, anecdote and evidence, weak and strong evidence, and scientific and non-scientific ideas; validity and reliability of data including sources of possible errors or bias
- the influence of social, economic, cultural and ethical factors relevant to the selected psychological investigation.
