PYMFEB-Evidence-Based Treatments Across the Lifespan

Module Provider: Psychology
Number of credits: 20 [10 ECTS credits]
Level:7
Terms in which taught: Spring term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2020/1

Email: F.J.Knott@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

The module will give students the opportunity to learn about interventions for psychological and neurological conditions from clinical experts in the field.  A range of psychological disorders and their treatment will be examined, allowing students to develop an understanding of evidence based practice.  The module will cover a range of conditions, such as anxiety and depression, and intervention modalities such as cognitive behaviour therapy and systemic approaches.

Aims:

The aim of the module is for students to evaluate the evidence base for models, theories and treatment approaches for a range of conditions/disorders across the lifespan.

Assessable learning outcomes:

By the end of the module, students will be able to:

1. Explain and evaluate the evidence for psychological models and theories of particular psychological or neurological disorders


2. Appraise the evidence base for the effectiveness of psychological treatments

Additional outcomes:

Students will gain a broader understanding of the skills and challenges associated with clinical practice; and of the interplay between psychological theory, empirical evaluation, and clinical interventions. Students will apply theories, models and treatment approaches to clinical case material.

Outline content:

This module comprises 10 three-hour seminars on evidence-based psychological theory and treatments. The seminars include topics on specific disorders that occur in clinical practice (e.g. anxiety disorders, depression) across the lifespan from childhood to adulthood into older adulthood (e.g. neurodevelopmental problems in childhood, dementia).

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

The module will use a combination of lectures, interactive activities and small and large group discussion, with the opportunity to watch/listen to illustrative audio and video and consider clinical case material. Where appropriate, students will be encouraged to undertake reading in advance of the seminar to facilitate activities and discussion.

Summative assessment- Examinations:

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

Assessment will be by

1. A poster presentation relating to a topic covered in the seminars, for instance critical analysis of the efficacy of a clinical intervention.


2.  Written report (2250 words) which involves the application of theory and treatment approaches to clinical conditions.

Formative assessment methods:

Opportunities to develop skills in critical evaluation of research and its application to clinical psychology will be embedded in activities across all seminars. Such activities could include group work to design a research trial, class debates and discussion of video material.   There will be opportunities for formal and informal peer feedback as well as feedback from seminar convenors.

Penalties for late submission:
Penalties for late submission on this module are in accordance with the University policy. Please refer to page 5 of the Postgraduate Guide to Assessment for further information: http://www.reading.ac.uk/internal/exams/student/exa-guidePG.aspx

Assessment requirements for a pass:

50%

Reassessment arrangements:

If a student fails the assignment, an alternative, equivalent assignment can be submitted.  The assignment and date of submission will be by arrangement with the Module Convenor and/or Programme Director. Students should note however that, given the University regulations on failing credits, it may not be in their interests to resubmit the coursework.

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):

Last updated: 10 September 2020