Higher Psychology Course Support Notes - Scottish Qualifications ...

Skills, knowledge and
understanding
Understand the research
process, including the
ability to evaluate methods
and explain ethical and
scientific standards
Use research evidence to
explain human behaviour
Interpret descriptive
statistics in psychological
research
Use communication skills to
present information,
including a report on
psychological research
Research Unit
Individual
Behaviour
Unit
Social Behaviour
Unit
Teachers and lecturers have a key role in guiding learners
to work in accordance with ethical and scientific standards.
At Higher, learners will develop skills in planning and
conducting research. Learning and teaching should
reinforce the ethical principles of research as stated in the
British Psychological Society guidelines.
Learners are supported to draw on classic and
contemporary research evidence to explain behaviour.
Interpreting descriptive statistics should include learning
about mode, median, mean, central tendency and range.
Learners will develop skills in interpreting information from a
variety of sources including charts and graphs.
Learners can consolidate and improve on communication
methods where they are confident and also develop or try
out new methods. Information can be presented in a variety
of formats, for example summarising and presenting
information as an information leaflet, poster or short video
clip, or writing a longer piece such as an essay or report to
develop the ability to structure and develop a piece of work.
Learners will write a Psychological report in the Higher
Course assignment. Oral communication skills may be
developed through discussion or when presenting findings.
Technology may be used to support communication skills.
Course Support Notes for Higher Psychology Course 8