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    Overview

    Exploration of theoretical and methodological issues in modern social psychology.

    Social cognition is the study of how information about other people – and about ourselves – is processed, stored, and used in judgements, thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. This paper is an introduction to the major topics and methodologies of the field, including social categorisation, unconscious and "implicit" cognition, decision making, emotions, attitudes, and prejudice. Lectures are interspersed with discussion, debate, guest speakers, and opportunities to critique and develop research ideas, providing a broad and timely overview of the discipline.

    About this paper

    Paper title Social Cognition
    Subject Psychology
    EFTS 0.0833
    Points 10 points
    Teaching period Semester 1 (On campus)
    Domestic Tuition Fees ( NZD ) $723.96
    International Tuition Fees Tuition Fees for international students are elsewhere on this website.
    Restriction
    PSYC 466
    Eligibility

    Entry into Psychology 400-level normally requires a major in Psychology, a B+ average or higher in Psychology 300-level papers, and a pass in PSYC 311 Quantitative Methods. We highly recommend that students have completed PSYC 310. Students from other universities must show evidence of an equivalent level of competence.

    Contact

    Professor Jamin Halberstadt - jhalbers@psy.otago.ac.nz

    Teaching staff

    Professor Jamin Halberstadt

    Paper Structure

    Each class includes a lecture on one substantive topic in the field, followed by small group discussion of a related controversial or timely issue. Substantial time is also devoted to the questions of what makes research “interesting” and how to design interesting research projects from informal obvervations. Internal assessment includes short quizzes on weekly readings and two brief written assignments (1000 and 1500 words) expanding on concepts learned in class.

    Textbooks

    All required and recommended reading to be provided electronically by the lecturer.

    Graduate Attributes Emphasised
    Critical thinking, Research.
    View more information about Otago's graduate attributes.
    Learning Outcomes

    Students who successfully complete the paper will:

    • Understand and integrate the core issues and findings in social cognition
    • Engage in critical analysis and scientific debate
    • Learn to design and evaluate interesting research

    Timetable

    Semester 1

    Location
    Dunedin
    Teaching method
    This paper is taught On Campus
    Learning management system
    Blackboard

    Lecture

    Stream Days Times Weeks
    Attend
    A1 Thursday 14:00-16:50 9-13, 15-16, 18-22
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