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.
| Paper title | Social Cognition |
|---|---|
| Paper code | PSYC426 |
| Subject | Psychology |
| EFTS | 0.0833 |
| Points | 10 points |
| Teaching period | Semester 1 (On campus) |
| Domestic Tuition Fees (NZD) | $704.22 |
| 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
- More information link
View more information on the Department of Psychology's website
- Teaching staff
- 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
