Why do people learn differently? What motivates our choices and behaviours? How do personality, emotions and relationships shape who we are?
Psychology General introduces students to the scientific study of human behaviour, thoughts and emotions. Students explore how people think, learn, remember and interact with others, while developing practical skills that can be applied to everyday life, relationships, health and the workplace.
This course encourages students to better understand themselves and others, building empathy, communication skills and informed decision-making. Through real-world examples and practical investigations, students learn how psychology can support individual wellbeing and stronger communities.
Why are people’s personalities different? How do habits form? And how can learning influence behaviour?
In Unit 1, students investigate major theories of personality, including humanistic, psychodynamic, trait and behaviourist approaches. They explore how personality influences behaviour, relationships and individual identity.
Students also examine how learning occurs through classical conditioning, operant conditioning and observational learning. Through practical activities and real-world examples, students investigate how rewards, consequences and social influences shape behaviour in areas such as education, sport, advertising and social media.
Why do we forget important information? How can memory be improved? And what motivates people to achieve goals and make decisions?
In Unit 2, students investigate how memories are formed, stored and retrieved, and explore factors that influence memory and recall in everyday situations such as study, driving and communication. Students examine memory models and strategies used to improve learning and retention.
Students also investigate theories of motivation and explore how emotions, needs, goals and external influences affect behaviour. Through case studies and practical investigations, students develop an understanding of how motivation impacts learning, wellbeing, relationships and performance in daily life.
Skills and Capabilities Developed:
Students will develop skills in:
Potential Careers
Psychology General supports pathways into:
Post-School Study Options
Students may pursue pathways including:
Pre-requisites
There are no pre-requisites for this course
Ms Kerry-Anne Randall
Head of Science
Kerry.Randall@cewa.edu.au