| CODE | PSY3609 | ||||||||||||
| TITLE | Psychology of Small Groups | ||||||||||||
| UM LEVEL | 03 - Years 2, 3, 4 in Modular Undergraduate Course | ||||||||||||
| MQF LEVEL | 6 | ||||||||||||
| ECTS CREDITS | 4 | ||||||||||||
| DEPARTMENT | Psychology | ||||||||||||
| DESCRIPTION | The study-unit introduces the basic principles and theories of psychology of small groups. The unit covers the various themes that are operating in the field of group dynamics inherent in small groups. Students will have the opportunity to learn basic skills how to behave and intervene effectively in a group experience. The methodology will take the form of theoretical input by the lecturer and experiential learning on behalf of the students. A seminar format will be used with the expectation that students will participate actively in class discussions and experiential learning to facilitate the acquisition of knowledge and skills. Study-Unit Aims: The study-unit intends to provide students with theoretical understanding of the field of group dynamics, comprehend the complex study of group processes and learn to integrate a group experience, with theoretical knowledge and in-depth reflections. Learning Outcomes: 1. Knowledge & Understanding By the end of the study-unit the student will be able to: - Acquire a good understanding of the basic principles and theories of group development, e.g. how groups change and develop over time, focusing on topics such as group formation, structure and cohesion; - Grasp an understanding of factors related to group dynamics such as inclusion and identity, the connection between the individual and the group; - Realize how interpersonal forces significantly shape member’s behaviours and actions addressing topics such as influence processes, power in group strategies, conformity and deviance; - Identify factors that influence group’s productivity; thus studying processes and problems of group performance, decision making, teamwork and leadership; - Appreciate the difference between effective and ineffective groups focusing on conflict and cooperation in groups, intergroup relations, and how groups promote change. 2. Skills By the end of the study-unit the students will be able to: - Demonstrate an ability to observe, analyze and interpret group processes in a group; - Through experiential learning students are able to acquire basic skills how to intervene in a group as an observer, participant, and a leader. Required Text: - Forsyth, D.R. (2014) Group Dynamics (6th Edition)Thomson Wadsworth. Reading List - Johnson, W.D. & Johnson, P.F. (2009) Joining Together: Group Theory and Group Skills. (11th edition) Pearson. Supplementary readings will be supplied. |
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| ADDITIONAL NOTES | This study-unit is only offered to students with Psychology as an area of study. | ||||||||||||
| STUDY-UNIT TYPE | Lecture and Seminar | ||||||||||||
| METHOD OF ASSESSMENT |
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| LECTURER/S | Georgina Debattista |
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The University makes every effort to ensure that the published Courses Plans, Programmes of Study and Study-Unit information are complete and up-to-date at the time of publication. The University reserves the right to make changes in case errors are detected after publication.
The availability of optional units may be subject to timetabling constraints. Units not attracting a sufficient number of registrations may be withdrawn without notice. It should be noted that all the information in the description above applies to study-units available during the academic year 2024/5. It may be subject to change in subsequent years. |
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