Foundations of Community Psychology

Unit code: APM6010 | Study level: Postgraduate
12
(Generally, 1 credit = 10 hours of classes and independent study.)
Footscray Park
N/A
Overview
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Overview

This unit introduces students to the foundational theories, values and concepts of community psychology. Students will gain an introduction to community psychology approaches to issues and interventions across ecological levels. Systems thinking, power relations, and critical theories including intersectionality will be utilised to explore current impacts of social systems on mental health and wellbeing of individuals and communities. Lived experience and principles of participation in interventions will be considered.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

  1. Exhibit understanding of foundational concepts, values and interventions in community psychology;
  2. Critically review and apply community psychology theoretical frameworks to analyse and respond to contemporary social issues;
  3. Identify and critically reflect on how their social identities may influence their community psychology practice; and
  4. Analyse key concepts such as race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, culture, and how these are linked with oppression and privilege.

Assessment

For Melbourne campuses

Assessment type: Review
|
Grade: 25%
Evidence-based review of literature on a social issue from a community psychology lens (1500 words)
Assessment type: Essay
|
Grade: 35%
Critical Reflective Essay (2000 words)
Assessment type: Presentation
|
Grade: 40%
Theoretical Application Presentation (20 minutes, individual presentation, students required to submit presentation slides)

Required reading

Readings and source materials will be listed in the unit guide and available through VU Collaborate, and the VU library e-resources.

As part of a course

This unit is not compulsory for any specific course. Depending on the course you study, this unit may be taken as an elective.

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