Learning objectives
Through analysis and comparison between scientific articles and essays, the course aims to promote theoretical knowledge about the approaches taken in the study of the issues raised. Using a discussion of cases approach, it also aims to develop the students’ ability to understand and to address the questions posed by the postmodern reality. The course also proposes to show how this knowledge can be applied to a professional reality: it aims to develop skills in the design and evaluation of psychosocial interventions.
Finally, the course aims to foster students' critical thinking and independent judgment with respect to theoretical issues addressed, as well as to improve
their ability to communicate about the aspects they have investigated and learned.
Prerequisites
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Course unit content
After the first lessons devoted to the critical analysis of the paradigms of research utilized for the study of the interaction between the psychological and the social world, the course will be articulated into four thematic modules:
1) the psychology of culture as an emblem of the psychosocial approach
2) Stereotypes, prejudices and stigmatization processes: the new
frontiers of research
3) The social psychology of risk: from the social cognitive models to the social representation approach
6) Post-modernism and new challenges for the self.
Each module will focus on the latest theoretical and research approaches in social psychology and on possible lines of psychosocial intervention.
Full programme
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Bibliography
Chapters of books, review articles and research articles that will be defined during the lessons and agreed with the students on the basis of the themes that they would deepen.
Teaching methods
Lectures and individual study will be proposed in order to facilitate the acquisition of theoretical knowledge. Group work, exercises, individual papers, seminars with psychologists, discussions and oral presentations in the classroom will be offered to facilitate the development of competences, to encourage the acquisition of the ability to apply this knowledge in real life, to enhance independent judgment and communication skills.
Assessment methods and criteria
The exam includes (both for students attending class and for students not attending class) a written and an oral examination. The written examination consists of an individual report on a chosen theme based on 2/3 scientific international articles. It is designed to assess the knowledge and skills acquired, as well as students’ independent judgment and criticism.
The oral examination will assess students’ ability to communicate and to apply those skills to reality.
For students attending the class these competences will be evaluated during the course also through individual and group works.
Other information
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