Why People Believe Weird Things: Making Rational Decisions in an Irrational World - SPED102
This unit provides an introduction to why people make irrational decisions and how an understanding of the scientific process can assist making rational decisions in everyday life. The unit will include examination of flaws in human perception and cognitive biases, characteristics of pseudoscience as well as features and limitations of scientific approaches. Principles discussed in the unit will be illustrated with practical examples including paranormal claims, questionable educational interventions and dubious health claims. You will be equipped with tools to evaluate evidence, strengthen your reasoning and improve your decision making in both academic study as well as everyday life.
| Credit Points: | 3 |
| When Offered: | S2 Day - Session 2, North Ryde, Day |
| Staff Contact(s): | Associate Professor Mark Carter, Dr Anne McMAugh |
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| Unit Type: | Planet unit |
| Assessed As: | Graded |
| Offered By: | Department of Educational Studies Faculty of Human Sciences |
Course structures, including unit offerings, are subject to change.
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