Psychology/Sociology

Teaching and Learning strategies

The subject application sessions involve a mixture of tutor-led presentations, trainee discussions and presentations and focused activities integrated into a workshop-style format. Sessions will include pre-session reading and investigation and research in school. Discussion, reflection and comparison of experience are also seen as an important element in the taught sessions.

Trainees are expected to discuss and reflect upon their work and that of other teachers through the mentoring process.

The North Bedfordshire SCITT Consortium believes that a spirit of intellectual enquiry should match the practical competence of teachers, focusing on how to stimulate and support effective and worthwhile learning of all pupils. A balance of these attributes is essential for proficiency in the classroom.

Social Sciences in the whole curriculum

The effective development of both Psychology and Sociology requires a clear understanding of the subject's purpose and its distinctive and wider contribution to the school's curriculum.

The purpose of Social Science:

In broad terms we believe that the aims of a social science education are:

• To develop in young people a knowledge and understanding of other people and individual, social and cultural diversity. To consider human behaviour and experience in a reflective way that enhances understanding of their own behaviour and experiences.

• To develop the skills of analysis, interpretation and evaluation. Design investigations, surveys, observations, content analysis and be able to analyse and interpret data.

• To stimulate and interest in, and encourage an appreciation of the wide diversity of human behaviour and the need for sensitivity and tolerance.

Citizenship and Social Sciences

• Students learn about, and how to participate in, the decision-making process.

• Social Science develops an intelligent understanding of European and global links and, in so doing, fosters a sense of interdependence of people and places but recognises cultural and social diversity.

• Through Social Science, young people develop a knowledge and understanding of how it can be used to enhance human welfare and enrich the lives of every citizen.