Department of Psychology, Unit Catalogue 2008/09 |
PS30103 Attitudes and social cognition |
Credits: 6 |
Level: Honours |
Semester: 1 |
Assessment: EX 100% |
Requisites: |
Before taking this unit you must take PS20092 and take PS20106 and take PS20107 and take PS20108 and take PS20109 |
Aims: This unit will focus on a selection of topics in the domains of attitude and social cognition. The unit aims at providing students with knowledge of classic themes in attitude theory and social cognition, practical issues such as measurement, and current developments such as implicit versus explicit cognitions and the role of the self. Some classroom demonstrations of popular paradigms in these areas will serve as hands-on illustrations. Furthermore, the unit aims at:
* stressing the distinction between automatic and controlled processes; * showing connections between attitudes, stereotypes, and the self; * covering basic as well as applied perspectives. Learning Outcomes: On completion of this unit the students will: * have knowledge of and insight in classic and contemporary theory of attitude and the selected areas in social cognition. * have knowledge of research methods and paradigms in the domains of attitude and social cognition. * have awareness of some important discussions and controversies in the domains of attitude and social cognition. * understand the relevance of attitude theory and social cognition for everyday individual and social phenomena and problems. Skills: The student can demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the topics focused on in this unit, in particular of the attitude construct, attitude-behavior relationships, explicit versus implicit attitudes, attitude change, the role of the self, schemas, stereotyping, and prejudice. (T/F A) The student has detailed knowledge of some specialised areas and/or applications, some of which are at the cutting edge of research in the discipline. (T/F A) The student is able to select relevant paradigms and research methods for answering particular research questions. (T/F A) The student is able to read and understand empirical journal articles and relate these to existing bodies of knowledge. (T/F A) The student is able to apply theoretical notions to practical problems and phenomena. (T/F A) The student can reason scientifically and take a critical view on arguments and research outcomes. (T/F A) The student is computer literate and is able to retrieve scientific articles from the available data bases. (T/F A) The student can solve problems by clarifying questions, considering alternative solutions and evaluating outcomes. (T/F A) The student is able to plan and organise the study activities that are required in this unit, take charge of his or her own learning, and can reflect and evaluate personal strengths and weaknesses for the purpose of future learning. (T/F A) Content: The following is a brief outline of the topics that will be covered: * The attitude construct and attitude measurement. * Attitude structure and attitude strength. * The influence of attitudes on behavior. * Habits. * Attitude formation and change. * Moral attitudes, values, and the self. * Interventions and behavior change. * Implicit versus explicit attitudes. * Person perception, schemas, and automaticity in social cognition. * Stereotyping. * Prejudice and racism. |