Psychology Study Notes

In this area of study students explore the role of different subdivisions of the nervous system in enabling a person to integrate, coordinate and respond to internal and external stimuli. Students examine neurotransmitters and neuromodulators in the transmission of neural information. They investigate stress as a psychobiological process and consider the ways in which stress can affect psychological functioning. Students explore models that describe stress and consider strategies for coping with stress and improving mental wellbeing.

In this area of study students evaluate models to explain learning and apply knowledge of how learning occurs in a range of contexts. They explore memory as the process by which knowledge is encoded, stored and later retrieved, as illustrated by multi-store models of memory and the interconnectedness of brain regions in storing explicit and implicit memories. Students consider the use of mnemonics and the contribution of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander knowledges in understanding memory and learning.

In this area of study students focus on sleep as a naturally occurring altered state of consciousness and the demands for sleep across the life span. They examine REM and NREM sleep, biological mechanisms of the sleep-wake cycle, and how partial or total sleep deprivation can affect psychological functioning. Students compare the effects of full sleep deprivation with blood alcohol concentration and explore circadian rhythm disorders. They consider ways to improve sleep hygiene and mental wellbeing.

In this area of study students explore mental wellbeing in terms of social and emotional wellbeing, levels of functioning, and resilience to cope with and manage change. They consider mental wellbeing as a continuum influenced by internal and external factors. Students apply a biopsychosocial approach to specific phobia, investigating biological, psychological and social factors in its development and management. Students also consider the importance of cultural determinants as integral to the wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Students undertake a student-designed scientific investigation in either Unit 3 or Unit 4, or across both Units 3 and 4, related to mental processes and mental wellbeing. The investigation involves the generation of primary quantitative data. Students apply key science skills to develop and test a research question, gather and analyse data, and communicate findings in a structured scientific poster. A logbook is maintained for authentication and assessment purposes.