Course Title: Models of Psychological Intervention

Part A: Course Overview

Course Title: Models of Psychological Intervention

Credit Points: 12.00


Course Code

Campus

Career

School

Learning Mode

Teaching Period(s)

BESC1194

Bundoora Campus

Postgraduate

150H Health Sciences

Face-to-Face

Sem 2 2006

BESC1195

Bundoora Campus

Undergraduate

150H Health Sciences

Face-to-Face

Sem 2 2006

BESC1196

City Campus

Undergraduate

150H Health Sciences

Face-to-Face

Sem 1 2006

BESC1376

City Campus

Postgraduate

150H Health Sciences

Face-to-Face

Sem 1 2006

Course Coordinator: Mr Merv Jackson

Course Coordinator Phone: +61 3 99257367

Course Coordinator Email: merv.jackson@rmit.edu.au

Course Coordinator Location: Rm 201.3.10


Pre-requisite Courses and Assumed Knowledge and Capabilities

BESC 1187,1189,1190 or 1375 Biological Psychology
BESC 1181,1182,1179 or 1374 Developmental Psychology
BESC 1175,1176,1177 or 1177Cognitive Psychology
BESC 1183,1185,1186 or 1372 Social Psychology


Course Description

The purpose of the course is to examine a variety of contrasting theoretical models underlying both individual and group psychological intervention. Through lectures, demonstrations, small-group discussions, experiential activities, readings, presentations, and writing of position papers, students are assisted to critically evaluate the practical applications of a variety of therapeutic perspectives. The aim is to develop a firm basic understanding of the approaches and techniques of psychological intervention used by psychologists, psychiatrists, and other professionals.


Objectives/Learning Outcomes/Capability Development

On completion of this course the student should be able to appreciate the theory underpinning psychological interventions, and thereby be prepared for the more applied emphasis involved in postgraduate training.


On completion of this course the student should be able to:

  1. demonstrate an understanding of the therapeutic processes presented in a variety of psychological intervention models, and of the practical elements of the psychological intervention.
  2. display an understanding of the listening and attending skills essential to the psychological intervention process
  3. demonstrate an understanding of the ethical and professional issues in psychological intervention
  4. demonstrate self-evaluation skills, writing skills, and critical thinking skills
  5. display an integration of theoretical and experiential knowledge, allowing the initial development of the student’ s own personal model of the psychological intervention process
  6. indicate an awareness of the students’ own qualities that may support or hinder attempts at providing help for others


Overview of Learning Activities

Each student will be required to attend two hours of lecture, and two hours of tutorial per week. These sessions will be delivered using a variety of techniques. Students can therefore expect multimedia delivery strategies that will include video programs, overhead presentations, demonstrations, lectures, small group discussions, role-play. Lecture notes are usually available on the DLS. Students will be required to contribute to the sessions in the form of role-play, discussion, critical appraisal, journal keeping, class presentations and problem solving. Emphasis in this undergraduate course is properly placed upon the theories underlying psychological intervention; however, students will gain some experience in situations in which psychological intervention skills (e.g., development of helping relationships, defining and clarifying problems, stating goals. etc.) are relevant. Psychological intervention practicalities will also be discussed, but completion of this course should not be considered adequate to enable the practice of psychological intervention.


Overview of Learning Resources

PRESCRIBED TEXT: Please see your Part B for details.


Overview of Assessment

Assessment will be spread throughout the semester and utilise different modes, including tutorial activities, written work and an exam.