1 Semester

24 Hours

Hawthorn

Admission to the  Bachelor of Arts (Honours)- Psychology stream or the Postgraduate Diploma of Psychology, or equivalent as assessed by the program convenor.

Nil

Credit Points: 12.5 Credit Points

Related Course/s:

 A unit of study in the Bachelor of Arts (Honours) - Psychology stream and the Postgraduate Diploma of Psychology.

Aims & Objectives:

Aims and Objectives

The aim of this unit is:

• To ensure awareness of ethical and professional issues confronting practicing psychologists.
• To clarify the relationship between the Psychologists Registration Board of Victoria and the Australian Psychological Society (APS).
• To ensure familiarity with the APS Code of Ethics, the APS Ethical Guidelines and the Registration Board's statements regarding ethical practice.
• To develop an awareness of how to apply in practice the principles and issues outlined in the APS Code of Ethics
• To foster the ability to identify situations that give rise to ethical and professional dilemmas for practicing psychologists in the areas of competence, confidentiality and informed consent.
• Acquaintance with the steps involved in ethical decision-making.
• Provide details regarding the practical skills involved in report writing, record-keeping and testing.
• To introduce issues relating to psychology and the law and the psychologist's role in court.
• An awareness of, and ability to apply, the principles and procedures outlined in the APS Code of Ethics and Guidelines.

• Demonstrate an awareness of ethical issues in professional practice
• Master advanced logical and critical thinking skills
• Develop advanced written communication skills

Teaching Methods:

The subject consists of a 1 hour lecture and 1 hour tutorial per week. It utilises lectures, tutorial activities, individual study, enquiry based learning, blended learning materials, and online resources. Staff are available for general feedback throughout the semester and after the completion of the assessment tasks.

Assessment:

Two short essays (50%) and one open book exam (50%)

Generic Skills Outcomes:

Graduates are adaptable and manage change 

Graduates are aware of environments 

Graduates are entrepreneurial

Content:

This unit of study introduces students to the essential elements of ethical and professional practice in psychology. The unit of study gives a background to the profession and information about professional associations and registration requirements in the state of Victoria. Ethical and professional issues such as competence, confidentiality, informed consent and professional conduct are covered. Practical professional skills such as report writing, record-keeping and analysing ethical dilemmas are introduced. Issues surrounding psychology and the law are studied, together with the psychologist's role in court. Throughout the unit of study there is an emphasis on becoming aware of, and applying in practice, the principles and procedures outlined in the APS Code of Ethics.

References: