Have you ever wondered why people behave the way they do? Why we remember some things but forget others? What shapes personality? Or how our minds influence our relationships?
This Introduction to Psychology is a friendly, engaging 10-week course designed for anyone curious about how the human mind works. This is a non-accredited, just-for-fun course with no exams, no pressure and plenty of opportunity for discussion.
We’ll explore key psychological theories, famous studies and influential thinkers such as Sigmund Freud, B. F. Skinner, Jean Piaget and Stanley Milgram; all in an accessible and enjoyable way.
Whether you’re completely new to psychology or simply want to revisit it in a relaxed setting, this course offers a stimulating introduction to the subject.
Over the 10 weeks, we’ll explore a wide range of fascinating topics, including what psychology is and how it developed as a scientific discipline; the biological basis of behaviour and how the brain and nervous system influence thoughts, emotions and actions; major learning theories such as classical and operant conditioning; and how memory, thinking and decision-making work (and sometimes go wrong).
We’ll look at child development and attachment, different theories of personality, from psychodynamic ideas associated with Sigmund Freud to trait and humanistic approaches, along with social psychology topics such as conformity, obedience and group influence, including classic research by Stanley Milgram. The course also covers emotion, motivation, stress, mental health and wellbeing, and finishes by considering how psychology applies to everyday life, including relationships, work and resilience.
There are no formal entry requirements for this course.
All you need is:
This course is suitable for complete beginners.
Please bring:
Handouts will be provided where relevant.
This course is designed as a standalone introduction to psychology.
However, depending on interest and demand, follow-on courses may be offered to explore areas in more depth, such as: