This is archived information!
Search current Handbook for current unit information.
Principles and Applications of Learning - PSY348
This unit examines research and theory that addresses the question of why people behave as they do. Learning theory focuses on the influence of preceding and consequent stimuli in the behaviour of individuals and groups, and looks at principles and methods by which behaviour can be modified. The lectures will cover some of the more important principles of learning with a strong emphasis on applications to everyday life. These applications will include the principles underlying behaviour modification (stimulus control, reinforcement, punishment, extinction and goal setting). They will also include some topics in the area of human factors such as skill acquisition and the cognitive biases that lead us to make less than optimal choices or decisions often resulting in unintentional errors or risky behaviours. The role that biological/evolutionary factors play in learning will also be covered. The practical component of the unit allows students to learn how they could apply these principles to their own behaviour in a self-regulation programme and how they might design a social marketing program to address a common lifestyle behaviour that needs to be changed.
| Credit Points: | 3 |
| When Offered: | S1 Day - Session 1, North Ryde, Day |
| Staff Contact(s): | Dr Julia Irwin |
| Prerequisites: |
6cp at 200 level including PSY236(P) |
| Corequisites: | |
| NCCW(s): | PSY325 |
| Unit Designation(s): | |
| Unit Type: | |
| Assessed As: | Graded |
| Offered By: | Department of Psychology Faculty of Human Sciences |
Timetable Information
For unit timetable information and session dates for external offerings please visit the Timetables@Macquarie Website.