M.Sc. in Psychology As of 1 September 2005 · 2007. 12. 6. · M.Sc. in Psychology As of 1 September 2005 2 Modules in the master’s degree program in psychology Module Field/Module

M.Sc. in Psychology As of 1 September 2005

1

Brief Description of the Programs of Study in Psychology at the Ruhr-University Bochum

At the Faculty of Psychology, the Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Psychology or the B.Sc. in Business Psychology can be acquired as a first professional qualification after a six-semester program of studies. The Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Psychology and the Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Clinical Psychology presuppose the completion of a Bachelor program (psychology or business psychology) and can be acquired after an additional four semesters. All programs of studies are appropriately related to both research and practice. In the Bachelor programs, exemplary, scientifically founded solutions to selected theoretical and practical problems are demonstrated, whereas the Master’s programs are centred on imparting abstract principles for creative further development. Thus, the Bachelor programs are a preparation for professional work in which tried and true problem solutions are the main focus. The Master’s programs are a preparation for work in which potential solutions have to be developed independently, evaluated and used as a basis for planning and decision making. Depending on which specialisation is selected (counselling and intervention or cognitive neurosciences), the B.Sc. in Psychology is a preparation for work in the health sector, the environmental sector, in the cognitive neurosciences or in business, in the collection and evaluation of data. The training for the B.Sc. in Business Psychology concentrates on personnel work, personnel selection and development, motivation and performance, motivational job design and team development. The Bachelor programs are a qualification for the application of a broad spectrum of fundamental knowledge in natural and social science, for the use of psychological work methods as well as for adapting to specific work requirements and for problem solving in professional practice. The Master’s program in psychology leads to a deeper specialisation and interdisciplinary training in the specialisations “psychological consulting for organisations” or “cognitive neurosciences”. The specialisation in “psychological consulting for organisations / business psychology” presupposes the knowledge acquired in the B.Sc. in psychology specialising in “counselling and intervention” or in the B.Sc. in business psychology. Based on an in-depth study of the subject matter and methods, the four-semester program of studies is a qualification for personnel testing and development as well as for consulting work for groups, businesses, institutions and non-profit organisations. It concentrates on consulting work with and development of teams, groups and organisations as well as conflict management within and among groups. According to their concentration, the students can choose between the designations “psychological consulting for organisations” and “business psychology”. The specialisation “cognitive neurosciences” treats the full spectrum of basic questions of neuroscientific research, and conveys in-depth knowledge of neuroscientific methods for presenting brain-behaviour relationships. The core of the training is the study of the determinants of cognitive processes with adequate scientific procedures. The implications for clinical disorders play an important part. On the one hand, the Master’s program in clinical psychology is a preparation for state-certified training as a psychological psychotherapist. On the other hand, the program provides a professional qualification for clinical psychologists who do not envisage therapeutic work in the narrower sense, but rather intend to work in psychosocial institutions and health institutions (for example educational counselling) or in the field of prevention (for example health training). The core of the program is the psychological foundations of clinical action and case-related intervention as well as scientific research in the field of clinical psychology.


2

Modules in the master’s degree program in psychology

Field/Module

Module number

Semester Lecture hr./week

Exercise/seminar hr./week

CP Page

Psychology Cognitive psychology: information processing and knowledge Applied cognitive psychology Advertising (part 1/part 2) Clinical Psychology Developmental psychology – culture and institution

MP – 1 MP – 2 MP – 3 MP – 4 MP – 5

1.

3.1. / 2.

1.3.

2

2

4

2

422

6

3693

5

7 9

11 13

27 Cognitive neurosciences Gender differences in cognitions Higher cognitive functions (part 1/part 2) Developmental neuropsychology Cerebral asymmetries Diagnosis and rehabilitation of neuropsychological disorders Clinical application of cognitive neurosciences Brain phantasms

MKN – 1 MKN – 2 MKN – 3 MKN – 4 MKN – 5 MKN – 6 MKN – 7

1.1. / 2.

2.2.3.3.3.

22224444

4636666

15 17 19 21 23 25 27

37 Neuroscientific methods Neuropsychological methods (part 1/part 2) Animal models Application of neuropsychological methods (part 1/part 2)

MNM – 1 MNM – 2 MNM – 3

1. / 2. 3.

3. / 4.

444

666

29 31 33

18

Psychological consulting for organisations / business psychology


3

Field/Module

Module number

Semester Lecture hr./week

Exercise/seminar hr./week

CP Page

Social psychology: group processes (part 1/part 2) Team management Social marketing (part 1/part 2) Consulting for organisations Theory and practice of intercultural training/coaching (part 1/part 2) Intervention and evaluation in organisations Institutional consulting (part 1/part 2)

MPO – 1 MPO – 2 MPO – 3 MPO – 4 MPO – 5 MPO – 6 MPO -- 7

1. / 2. 1.

1. / 2. 2.

3. / 4.

3.2. / 3.

1222

2

42224

24

96666

66

35 37 39 41 43

45 47

45 Psychological methods Questionnaire construction Multivariate procedures

MM – 1 MM – 2

2.3.

42

63

49 51

9 Internship (6 weeks) 8 Master’s thesis tutorial POS 3. 2 12 53 Master’s thesis 30


4

Notes on social skills: - communication and cooperation with other people in a professional setting - oral and written presentation of topics appropriate to the goal and the target group - institution of efficient working groups - moderation of group work and interaction with individuals and institutions towards a goal. In seminars, cooperation in study and work groups should be generally encouraged. Cooperation with and debate on other points of view, outlooks and opinions is encouraged. The descriptions of the various modules do not mention these general aspects of social competence. Socials skills will only be mentioned in the module description if a given module conveys farther-reaching social skills. Notes on methodological skills: - Understanding and critically applying the research methods and standard statistical evaluation methods used in psychology in laboratory

and field research. - Systematically researching, obtaining and summarising relevant literature The descriptions of the various modules do not mention these general aspects of methodological skills. Methodological skills will only be mentioned in the module description if a given module conveys farther-reaching methodological proficiency. Notes on academic skills: - Knowledge of significant theories, of their range of explanation and the limits of their explanatory range. - Knowledge of the application potential of theories - Ability to read and understand academic texts written in English - Deriving the theoretical framework from texts and evaluating them in terms of their implications in theory and practice The descriptions of the various modules do not mention these general aspects of academic skills. Academic skills will only be mentioned in the module description if a given module conveys farther-reaching academic proficiency . Notes on self-management skills: - Efficient self-organisation of one’s own work and professional cooperation - Ethically justifiable treatment of other people’s personal data (acquisition, recording and communication) In seminars, impulses are given for reflection on one’s personal presuppositions for efficient independent work and for efficient cooperation. In almost all data collection in psychology (business, research, diagnosis), confidential data is collected and must be used responsibly in accordance with legal provisions. The descriptions of the various modules do not mention these aspects of self-management skills. Self-management skills will only be mentioned in the module description if a given module conveys farther-reaching self-management skills.


5

Field of Psychology MP – 1 Cognitive Psychology: Information Processing and Knowledge

1 MODULE NUMBER RESPONSIBLE FACULTY MEMBER(S)

MP – 1 Guski

2

Name of the module

Cognitive psychology: information processing and knowledge

3.1

Contents

The module provides a survey of various conceptions and fields of application of human information processing, of the storage and organisation of information to yield retrievable knowledge. Topics: The concept “information” in the context of various issues (for example sensory, symbolic, conative information), automatic and voluntary steps in processing information (for example contrast enhancement, merging binocular and binaural information, mental transformation of images), forms of internal and external representation of knowledge and their consequences for the information contained (for example text vs. picture vs. film vs. book vs. CD, propositional vs. analogue memory contents), examples of possible applications.

3.2

Qualification objectives

Academic skills The students acquire knowledge of the principles and performance of the cognitive structures involved in the reception, processing, storage and retrieval of information. The theoretically and empirically founded knowledge acquired here is a presupposition for the assessment of the impact of information from the environment and for the collaboration of psychologists in technical or psychological measures to promote effective information processing, whether in human-media interaction, human-machine interaction, human-human interaction of in rehabilitation measures. Methodological skills Summary, evaluation and communication of empirical research results, evaluation of the quality of sources, systematic procedure in testing claims related to cognition and open research questions. Social skills Sensitivity for people with different physical endowments (for example recognition and memory problems).


6

3.3

Forms of instruction

The module consists of a lecture with the three main topics named in the title of the module and an accompanying seminar on the topic. The lecture presents a survey of each topic as well as selected illustrative material. Before each lecture, the students will receive an outline and texts via the Ruhr University’s e-learning system. Each topic is closed with a summary emphasising the aspects relevant for the examination. In the accompanying seminar, the primary form of instruction is presentations by students and participatory exercises. For each session, students working in a group will prepare an introduction to the topic based on the textbook; the same or another group will present the questions, procedures and results of a suggested empirical study on the topic. Special emphasis will be placed on vivid presentation and interactive elements; for example brief films can be presented, specific questions posed to the seminar participants and discussed, and experiments demonstrated.

4.1

Expected workload

As a rule, the total workload amounts to 180 hours.

4.2

Number of credit points

6

5

Type of examination / grading

The lecture will conclude with an invigilated final examination. The examination will take place in the last week of the lecture period; in case of failure in the module as a whole, the examination can be repeated during the recess period. The evaluation of performance in the seminar consists in equal parts of the performance in the presentation or presentations and active participation in the seminar. In the evaluation of the module, the performance in the examination and in the seminar will be combined with 50% weighting each.

6

Prerequisites for participation

B.Sc. in psychology or B.Sc. in business psychology with a knowledge of the foundations of cognitive psychology.

7

Duration (number of semesters)

The module should be completed in one semester.

8

Frequency of offer

The module is offered every winter semester.

9

Use and usability in other programs of study

The module is offered for the M.Sc. in psychology, possibly – space permitting – for students of other programs of study who demonstrably have a very good knowledge of the foundations of cognitive psychology. . This module is compulsory in the M.Sc. in psychology if the required minimum number of credit points has not been reached for the field.


7

MP – 2 Applied Cognitive Psychology


MP – 2 Schulz

2

Name of the module

Applied cognitive psychology

3.1

Contents

The module treats questions of cognitive psychology derived from everyday life as well as knowledge applied to everyday life and studied in this connection. These are primarily the scientific fields of forensic psychology and criminology, transportation and aviation psychology, in general accident and error research in relation to general action research.

3.2


Academic skills The students acquire knowledge of the most important findings of cognitive psychology of everyday life (cognitive illusions), of witness and witness-memory research (applied psychology of memory) as well as accident and error research and become acquainted with theoretical approaches to these areas. This knowledge is indispensable for counselling and consulting at all levels and in all areas of society (judiciary, administration, business, communication and media, health and sport). Methodological skills Summary, evaluation and communication of empirical research results, assessment of the quality of sources, especially in case of neighbouring sciences such as criminology, medicine and biology, and communication with the legal, social and transportation sciences. Social systems Application of cognitive psychological findings, acquaintance with possible fields for professional work for psychologists which are not very well known or not yet established.

3.3


The module consists of a lecture (2 hours per week) divided into three main parts in 12 to 14 sessions. The course contents will be made available in the Internet or the Ruhr-University’s e-learning system.

4.1

Expected workload


4.2


3


8

5


A final evaluation will take place in the form of an invigilated written examination.

6


None. The courses/modules Information processing and/or Cognition and brain in the B.Sc. program in psychology are helpful and recommended.

7



8

Frequency of offer

The module is offered in the winter semester, at least every two years.

9


The module is offered for the M.Sc. in psychology and for the M.Sc. in clinical psychology. It is a good methodological preparation for the master’s thesis in the field of forensic psychology or error research. The foundations for the treatment of questions of practical memory assessment and error analysis are provided, which is of particular advantage for the orientation towards psychological consulting for organisations in the M.Sc. in psychology. This module is compulsory if the required minimum number of credit points has not been reached for the corresponding field.


9

MP – 3 Advertising


MP – 3 Bock

2

Name of the module

Advertising

3.1

Contents

Advertising plays an important role in politics, business and administration. With this in mind, this module is primarily intended for students envisaging professional work in the fields of advertising and marketing, or public relations. In the corresponding courses, questions of the following kind will be treated: Models of effect. Psychological and economic utility of advertising. Emotional, cognitive and persuasive effects of advertising with and without the recipients’ attention. Arrangement of advertising in terms of form and content. Advertising in the Internet. The basis is provided by the B.Sc. modules Information processing, Psychology of media: Basics and Audio-visual media.

3.2


Academic skills The students will become acquainted with the possible objectives of advertising as well as the possible ways of reaching these objectives (arrangement of the advertising message, selection of the advertising medium). Methodological skills Theoretical classification, summary and assessment of empirical research results, transfer to problems in advertising practice. Social skills Consulting and collaboration in all questions bearing on psychology of advertising (advertising to increase turnover, information campaigns launched by institutions).

3.3


The module consists of the survey seminar Introduction to the psychology of advertising and the advanced seminar Advertising and attention. The survey seminar treats the foundations of psychology of advertising, the following advanced seminar deals with a more specialised topic of particular importance for advertising practice (for example advertising effects with and without attention). Both seminars are based primarily on oral presentations by the seminar participants with discussion.

4.1

Expected workload



10

4.2


6

5


A final evaluation will take place in the form of two seminar-specific papers.

6


This module is recommended especially to those who selected the modules Information processing, Psychology of media: Basics and Audio-visual media in the B.Sc. program inasmuch as they have learned the foundations of psychology of advertising.

7


The module should be completed in two successive semesters beginning in the winter semester.

8

Frequency of offer

The module begins every winter semester.

9


The module is offered for the M.Sc. in psychology.


11

MP – 4 Clinical Psychology


MP – 4 Schulte

2

Name of the module

Clinical Psychology

3.1

Contents

The module conveys a deeper knowledge of the most important psychological disorders and their treatment. In the lecture, several disorders are presented together with their clinical pictures, their prototypical course, their delimitation from other disorders, the frequency of their occurrence and their distribution. The central issue in each case is the discussion of current theories and research results on causes and conditions of the disorder and the comparison of these points. Psychotherapeutic treatment methods are based on these specific disorder theories. They will be described, including research results on their effectiveness and their action mechanisms. In each of the seminars, this knowledge is expanded for one exemplary disorder. Studies of the aetiology as well as of therapy are looked at and discussed more closely. Diagnostic and therapeutic procedures are presented in theoretical and practical terms with a first introduction to practical application.

3.2


Academic skills The students acquire basic knowledge for work in the field of prevention, treatment and rehabilitation of disorders or diseases of a psychological nature or with contributory psychological factors. They are enabled to recognise psychological disorders and to provide for suitable counselling and treatment measures. Moreover, initial practical abilities are imparted, for example for planning or conducting individual interventions. Methodological skills Ability to judge research results and their relevance for clinical practice by means of critical analysis of research studies in clinical psychology and psychotherapy. Social skills Promotion of understanding for persons with psychological problems and the unusual interaction behaviour which they often display, possibility of dealing with these people.


12

3.3


The module consists of a lecture (4 hours per week) and an accompanying seminar (2 hours per week). Two to four seminars will be offered, each on a distinct disorder or group of disorders. Students can select one of the seminars. The lecture Clinical psychology and psychotherapy is conducted as a series of lectures in each of which one disorder or group of disorders is presented and discussed. The most important transparencies on the various topics will be made available as copies or in electronic form. The accompanying seminars are similar in structure and conduct, but each concentrates on one specific disorder picture. On the basis of suggested publications on the topic, the students prepare a presentation based on publications, making the positions and results on the topic as well as the methodological procedure clear. Furthermore, a statement on content and method is expected. The students can take advantage of the department’s collection of teaching films for their presentations. Diagnostic procedures and components of therapeutic methods should be performed in self-trial or with seminar participants. If possible and indicated, special institutions for the treatment of the disorder at issue will be visited in an excursion, or experienced therapists will be invited.

4.1

Expected workload


4.2


9

5


The lecture will conclude with an invigilated final examination. The seminar evaluation consists primarily of the performance in the presentation and the handouts distributed. In the evaluation of the module, the performance in the examination and in the seminar will be combined with a weighting ratio of 60 to 40.

6


The module presupposes a basic understanding of psychological disorders as well as a basic knowledge of the spectrum of psychotherapeutic treatment methods. This basis is acquired in the program of studies for the bachelor in psychology. Furthermore, a basic knowledge of the conditions and control of experience and behaviour is necessary. To assess the scientific studies, a corresponding knowledge of methods is required.

7



8

Frequency of offer


9


The module is offered for the M.Sc. in psychology, and with the designation Causes and treatment of psychological disorders for the M.Sc. in clinical psychology.


13

MP – 5 Developmental Psychology – Culture and Institution


MP – 5 Schölmerich

2

Name of the module

Developmental psychology – culture and institution

3.1

Contents

This module introduces the concept of culture as an essential context variable for numerous developmental processes. Various social institutions are examined in order to demonstrate such context effects. The module enables the students to compare existing institutions, for example in the European context, to point out differences and common ground in the organisation of socialisation institutions within and outside of the family, and to develop criteria for the evaluation of such institutions against the background of empirically founded knowledge.

3.2


Academic skills The academic skills imparted include in the first place knowledge of social institutions involved in development processes, that is, nurseries and kindergartens, school and non-school educational institutions. Furthermore, care institutions will be presented such as foster families, homes and care institutions for the aged. The different expectations and attitudes of people with different cultural backgrounds towards such institutions is of special importance. Methodological skills Description of organisations and institutions, appropriate use of concepts from culture theory (for example sociocentric vs. individualistic orientation).

3.3


The module consists of a seminar. Relevant institutions (family, nursery, school, educational or training institutions, care institution) are presented in brief reports. Culture theoretical concepts are used to analyse institutions in terms of their function.

4.1

Expected workload As a rule, the total workload amounts to 90 hours.

4.2


3


14

5


The grading of the module is based on the quality of participation.

6


The prerequisites to the module are successful completion of the modules Developmental psychology I: birth to childhood and Developmental psychology II: adolescence, family and vocation. In addition, a basic knowledge of analysis of organisations and institutions is advantageous.

7



8

Frequency of offer

The module is offered annually and begins in the winter semester.

9




15

Field of Cognitive Neurosciences MKN – 1 Gender Differences in Cognitions


MKN - 1 Hausmann

2

Name of the module

Gender differences in cognitions

3.1

Contents

Sex is one of the most fundamental features of interindividual differences. The module deals in exemplary fashion with the interaction between genetic, hormonal and social factors affecting the brain, cognition and behaviour. The focus is in particular on the hormonal influence on sexual, aggressive and cognitive behaviour. One of the main goals of the module is an understanding for how the variety of neuropsychobiosocial factors interact and how the interaction between these factors is related to the development of psychological and neuropsychiatric diseases.

3.2


Academic skills The students acquire a knowledge of the interactions between genes, hormones and social factors and their influence on the brain, cognition and behaviour. By means of the study of comparative studies of animal and human being, the seminar participants will be introduced to the foundations of these interactions. In addition to an introduction to psychoneuroendocrinology, the hormonal influences on sexual, social and cognitive behaviour among other points will be treated. Furthermore, the students will acquire empirically founded knowledge of the sexual differentiation of the brain and cognitive abilities. Methodological skills Summary, evaluation and classification of the results of empirical research in which individual differences, in particular differences in sex play a part. Social skills Ability to recognise and analyse interactions between genes, hormones and social factors affecting the brain and behaviour, both in other people and in oneself, identification of potential influencing factors in terms of a biopsychosocial approach.


16

3.3


The module consists of a seminar in which a broad survey of the topic in relationship to other subdisciplines is presented in the form of student presentations. The students receive the various topics and corresponding literature at the beginning of the course, and work out a presentation on the basis of 2 to 3 relevant publications on a topic, making the connection to the overarching theme clear and pointing out the specific approach of the authors concerned. Special emphasis will be placed on interactive elements. Each presentation concludes with a discussion of the current topic as well as an evaluation of the presentation.

4.1

Expected workload


4.2


4

5


The seminar evaluation consists primarily of the performance in the presentation and the handouts distributed. In the evaluation of the module, the performance in the presentation and the qualified active participation will be combined with a weighting ratio of 75 to 25. In case of failure, the module can be repeated by writing a seminar paper related to the topic of the student’s individual presentation during the recess period.

6


The module presupposes a basic knowledge of general psychology, of biopsychology and of methods. In methods, descriptive and inferential statistics in particular are necessary in order to be able to understand the studies presented and to assess their scientific quality.

7



8

Frequency of offer


9


The module is offered for the M.Sc. in psychology and for the M.Sc. in clinical psychology.


17

MKN – 2 Higher Cognitive Functions


MKN – 2 Güntürkün / t.b.a.

2

Name of the module

Higher cognitive functions

3.1

Contents

The module deals with recent findings in the neurosciences in the area of primate research. It treats the neuronal basis of higher cognitive processes such as attention, memory, thinking, decision making, problem solving and social cognition. It conveys on the one hand recent fundamental findings on the neuronal systems involved in these performances and on the other hand clinical knowledge of the consequences of dysfunction in these systems. This last point refers to neuropsychiatric syndromes as well as social and forensic aspects.

3.2


Academic skills The students will learn to understand that there is no dualistic division between brain and mind, but rather that brain and mind are a unity. On the basis of clinical-forensic examples, the students are shown that cerebral functions causally explain behaviour and do not exist independently of it. This understanding has serious implications for the self-image and for such concepts as “freedom of the will” and “curability”; these are concepts that play a fundamental part in the practice of psychological therapy, counselling and delivering reports or expert opinions. Methodological skills Knowledge and classification of the current state of research, knowledge of the methodological arsenal and of standardised test procedures to study higher cognitive functions, ability to develop a standpoint in current questions of social policy (forensic, clinical and educational), knowledge of epidemiology, aetiology and diagnostic criteria of selected psychopathological disorders, ability to devise and theoretically judge treatment concepts. Social skills Scientifically founded understanding of the causes of complex behavioural abilities and deficiencies, including deviant behaviour, realistic expectations about and theoretically founded ability to judge goals of intervention and intervention programs, integration of various interests in conflict with each other.


18

3.3


The lecture conveys factual knowledge about higher cognitive functions and their neuronal basis in interactive form. Experimental demonstrations and selected neuropsychological tests will be performed in the group as illustrations. In the accompanying seminar, published case studies and film material will be used to present the cases of people with remarkably high abilities in the cognitive areas under discussion or who display specific deficits. The students will examine the available material and select particularly interesting passages. They will comment on these in the subsequent presentation in the seminar on the basis of information that they have researched on the Internet or in textbooks or on the basis of personal observations or internships. On selected topics, a practising colleague (from a hospital or a prison) can be invited or questioned by the students in a telephone interview as preparation for the seminar.

4.1

Expected workload


4.2


6

5


The knowledge conveyed in the lecture will be tested after every third session in a mini-examination. In the seminar, the participants are required in every session to take a brief “quiz” on the previous session. In the evaluation of the module, the performance in the lecture and in the seminar will be combined with a weighting ratio of 70 to 30.

6


The module presupposes a basic knowledge of general psychology and of cognitive neuroscience.

7



8

Frequency of offer


9




19

MKN – 3 Developmental Neuropsychology


MKN – 3 Schölmerich

2

Name of the module

Developmental neuropsychology

3.1

Contents

The module presents selected areas of developmental neuropsychology on the basis of survey literature on the topic and exemplary studies. The topic of pre- and postnatal brain development supplements the understanding of the functional connections among various parts of the brain from an ontogenetic perspective. A further substantial goal is instruction on the foundations required to judge the age-group-specific applicability of various standard procedures in neuropsychology (EEG, fMRI, PET). Finally, the module provides a survey and practical demonstration of important procedures for the examination of emotional and cognitive processes in the course of development with special reference to old age.

3.2


Academic skills The students will acquire a knowledge of scientifically founded procedures for diagnostic use or for scientific data collection taking account of age-group-specific features. Specific disorder syndromes related to the topic (autism, aggression, regulatory disorders, dementia) will be presented against the background of normal development. This will promote an understanding of the possibilities and limits of an objectively justified intervention. Methodological skills Competent handling of the age-group-specific applicability of various neuropsychological procedures, basic knowledge of developmental diagnostic procedures, summary, assessment and communication of empirical research results, assessment of the quality of sources of scientific publications. Social skills Presentation of a major thematic area, development of one’s own standpoint, justification of the position in a group discussion.

3.3


The module consists of a seminar; students’ presentations as well as a prepared and moderated discussion of important literature will be the primary form of instruction. Every student will be involved in the preparation of a unit of instruction.

4.1

Expected workload



20

4.2


3

5


The grading of the module takes account above all of the quality of participation as well as the written presentation of the topic that the students work on during the course.

6


The prerequisites to the module are successful completion of the modules Developmental psychology I: birth to childhood and Developmental psychology II: adolescence, family and vocation. In addition, a basic knowledge of cognitive neuropsychology is advantageous.

7



8

Frequency of offer

The module is offered annually and begins in the summer semester.

9


The module is offered for the M.Sc. in psychology with a specialisation in cognitive neurosciences.


21

MKN – 4 Cerebral Asymmetries


MKN – 4 Hausmann / t.b.a.

2

Name of the module

Cerebral asymmetries

3.1

Contents

The asymmetry of the brain is a fundamental organisational principle of the human brain. Almost all higher cognitive functions such as language, memory, spatial behaviour, attention processes and emotional processes are organised asymmetrically in the brain. The module deals with both the structural and the functional differences between the cerebral hemispheres. In addition to these basics and the development of cerebral asymmetry, individual variations in the asymmetry of the brain will be treated. Furthermore, due to the clinical relevance of cerebral asymmetries, specific neuropsychological (developmental) disorders as well as neurological and neuropsychiatric diseases are discussed.

3.2


Academic skills The students acquire knowledge of the foundations and variations of cerebral asymmetry. This includes in particular empirically founded knowledge of the structural and functional differences between the two hemispheres as well as knowledge of the commissural system and the interaction between the hemispheres. These are central topics of cognitive neurosciences and are of relevance to experimental and clinical neuropsychology. Methodological skills Summary, evaluation and classification of the results of empirical research, transfer of empirical results to new problem areas, classification of relevant neuropsychological disorders in which cerebral asymmetries play a part. Social skills Ability to recognise and analyse the principles of the structural and functional organisation of the brain underlying emotional, motor and cognitive processes in other people and in oneself.


22

3.3


The module consists of a seminar in which a broad survey of the topic in relationship to other subdisciplines is presented in the form of student presentations. The students receive the various topics and corresponding literature at the beginning of the course, and work out a presentation on the basis of 2 or 3 relevant publications on a topic, making the connection to the overarching theme clear and pointing out the specific approach of the authors concerned. Special emphasis will be placed on interactive elements. Each presentation concludes with a discussion of the current topic as well as an evaluation of the presentation.

4.1

Expected workload


4.2


6

5


The seminar will conclude with an invigilated final examination. The examination will take place in the last week of the lecture period; in case of failure, the examination can be repeated during the recess period. The seminar evaluation consists primarily of the performance in the presentation and the handouts distributed. In the evaluation of the module, the performance in the examination and in the seminar will be combined with 50% weighting each.

6


The module presupposes a basic knowledge of general psychology, of biopsychology and of methods. In methods, descriptive and inferential statistics in particular are necessary in order to be able to understand the studies presented and to assess their scientific quality.

7



8

Frequency of offer

The module is offered every summer semester.

9




23

MKN – 5 Diagnosis and Rehabilitation of Neuropsychological Disorders


MKN – 5 Daum/ Suchan

2

Name of the module

Diagnosis and rehabilitation of neuropsychological disorders

3.1

Contents

The module conveys knowledge of the structure and conduct of diagnostic procedures in clinical neuropsychology. These include, among others, instruments to diagnose dementia, neglect, attention disorders and changes in affective processing. Furthermore, neuropsychological treatment procedures are presented and discussed.

3.2


Academic skills The students acquire a knowledge of neuropsychological treatment procedures. They should then be able to independently perform a neuropsychological diagnosis and to interpret the test results. Methodological skills Conduct of diagnostic procedures, summary, assessment and communication of empirical research findings and approaches in neuropsychological rehabilitation, interpretation of diagnosis results. Social skills Preparation for dealing with patients, sensitivity for features specific to patient groups.

3.3


The module consists of two seminars. In the seminar Neuropsychological diagnostics, important neuropsychological diagnosis instruments drawn from clinical neuropsychology will be presented. The seminar is divided into discrete topics (among others attention, memory, aphasia, intelligence). The seminar Neuropsychological Rehabilitation presents various neuropsychological treatment procedures and approaches. The treatment approaches are studied with specific reference to a corresponding disorder. On the basis of test manuals and significant publications on the topic, the students prepare a presentation, or they study scientific texts in small groups during the session and then present them to the entire group. Special emphasis will be placed on interactive elements; for example, neuropsychological tests should be performed with the seminar participants. In the seminar Neuropsychological rehabilitation, the approaches to treatment should be explained to the extent possible with reference to patients described in the literature in order to provide as realistic an impression as possible of the treatment approach as well as of problems during treatment.

4.1

Expected workload



24

4.2


6

5


In addition to regular participation, the presentation will be evaluated on the basis of delivery and the accompanying handout. In the evaluation of the module, the performance in both seminars will be combined with 50% weighting each.

6


The module presupposes a basic knowledge of clinical neuropsychology.

7



8

Frequency of offer


9


The module is offered for the M.Sc. in psychology (cognitive neurosciences) and for the M.Sc. in clinical psychology.


25

MKN – 6 Clinical Application of Cognitive Neurosciences


MKN – 6 Daum/ Uekermann

2

Name of the module

Clinical Application of Cognitive Neurosciences

3.1

Contents

The module deals with the fields of application of neuropsychology in everyday clinical work. Changes to cognitive and affective functions are treated in four areas. The first area comprises neuropsychological changes due to brain lesions caused by strokes, tumours and craniocerebral traumas. The second sort of neuropsychological changes to be treated are those resulting from neurodegenerative diseases such as Huntington’s chorea. The third area includes cognitive and affective changes due to substance abuse. Finally, neuropsychological changes in neuropsychiatric diseases will be studied.

3.2


Academic skills In this module, the students will acquire knowledge of the influence of brain lesions and cerebral dysfunctions on behaviour and experience. Furthermore, they will learn what specific impairments can occur with various neurological diseases. Methodological skills Summarising and recounting scientific texts, evaluation and communication of empirical research results, evaluation of the quality of sources, presentation with visualisation. Social skills Knowledge of and understanding for changes in the behaviour and experience of neurological patients.

3.3


The module consists of two seminars. The first seminar deals specifically with neuropsychological changes in neurological diseases. The second seminar focuses on changes due to neuropsychiatric diseases. At the beginning, the students are given a list of literature on which the seminar is based and prepare a presentation on a specific topic using various suggested publications, or study scientific texts in small groups during the session. These texts are then presented to the complete group. Provided the materials are available, the diagnostic and experimental neuropsychological test procedures used in the presented studies will be performed in the group.

4.1

Expected workload



26

4.2


6

5



6



7


The module should be completed in two semesters.

8

Frequency of offer

The courses belonging to this module will be offered in alternation.

9


The module is offered for the M.Sc. in psychology (cognitive neurosciences) and for the M.Sc. in clinical psychology.


27

MKN – 7 Brain Phantasms


MKN – 7 Güntürkün

2

Name of the module

Brain Phantasms

3.1

Contents

At the end of the specialisation in cognitive sciences, this module is intended as a discussion forum for current problems of biopsychological research. The intended qualification goal is the ability in a scientific discourse to define open questions, to explain possibilities and to generate visions for a solution. Hence, this module is intended for students who already have considerable knowledge in this segment of their studies and will contribute this knowledge to on-going discussions.

3.2


Academic skills The students acquire a knowledge of the possibilities of discussing the neural foundations of psychological entities and of generating new approaches. Methodological skills Competence with respect to functional issues on neuroscientific topics, researching relevant literature and applying it. Social skills Ability to follow and critically discuss other people’s problems and ideas about solutions, presentation and defence of one’s own approaches to solutions.

3.3


In the instructor’s presentation of the topics, it is intended to focus on the limits of our knowledge that do not imply ready-made solutions. Then problems will be defined more concretely, and each student has one semester’s time to work out a realistic solution for a problem on the basis of the relevant literature, whether alone or, depending on the topic, in very small groups. Every two weeks the entire seminar will meet and report on interim results. These meetings will be moderated by the instructor, who will also give tips and report on analogous issues, etc.. The students or small work groups will visit the instructor frequently to discuss problems. In the second half of the semester, the students’ reports will be presented on a weekly basis. The last meeting will take a synoptic view of the problem solutions developed, and each group will present its seminar paper. Thus, each student will deliver two presentations: an account of interim results in the second half of the semester and an account of the final results.


28

4.1

Expected workload

Due to the extensive work required outside of the meetings, the total workload amounts to about 180 hours.

4.2


6

5


In the evaluation of the module, the delivery and rigour of the two presentations will be combined with 50% weighting each. (The criteria of evaluation will be communicated in detail in advance.)

6


The module presupposes basic knowledge in the field of cognitive neurosciences. At least four modules from the area must be taken.

7



8

Frequency of offer

The module is offered every summer semester.

9




29

Field of Neuroscientific Methods MNM – 1 Neuropsychological Methods


MNM – 1 Daum/ Suchan

2

Name of the module

Neuropsychological Methods

3.1

Contents

The module conveys a knowledge of neuropsychological examination procedures. The foundations and possible applications of the most important methods (electroencephalogram, positron emission tomography, functional magnetic resonance tomography and transcranial magnetic stimulation) will be treated.

3.2


Academic skills The students acquire a knowledge of the physical foundations of the main procedures in neuropsychology. These include electroencephalogram (EEG), positron emission tomography (PET), functional magnetic resonance tomography (FMRT) and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). Furthermore, a survey will be given of the possible applications of the various methods. The students should be able to independently develop experimental paradigms for the various procedures. Methodological skills Summary, assessment and communication of empirical research findings and approaches in the application of the various procedures. Preparation for handling selected neuropsychological methods, independent development of experimental paradigms. Social skills Instruction of fellow students in the acquired knowledge.


30

3.3


The module consists of two seminars. In the seminar Neuropsychological methods I (EEG/ERP), the foundations of the EEG and its clinical and experimental application will be discussed. In addition to the physical foundations, all standard paradigms of EEG research will be treated. In analogy to the seminar on EEG methods, the seminar Neuropsychological methods II (Imaging procedures) will introduce the various examination procedures and treat the typical paradigms. The limiting factors to be taken account of in planning experiments will be pointed out. On the basis of recent publications on the topic, the students prepare a presentation, or they study scientific texts in small groups during the session and then present them to the entire group. Special emphasis will be placed on interactive elements; for example, neuropsychological tests should be performed with the seminar participants.

4.1

Expected workload


4.2


6

5



6



7


The module should be completed in two semesters.

8

Frequency of offer

The seminars will be offered successively in the winter semester and the summer semester.

9


The module is offered for the M.Sc. in psychology (cognitive neurosciences).


31

MNM – 2 Animal Models


MNM – 2 Güntürkün

2

Name of the module

Animal models

3.1

Contents

The module is intended to go into the possibilities of using animal models to detect mechanisms of relevance for cognitive neurosciences. A project seminar is panned on the topic. The topics will be cerebral asymmetries, executive functions, working memory processes as well as mechanisms of motivational neuroscience. The qualification goal is competent knowledge of the possibilities, difficulties, limits and also potential of animal models for biopsychological work. A second qualification goal is the acquisition of the ability to find experimental solutions for scientific problems.

3.2


Academic skills The students acquire a knowledge of the possibilities of understanding the neural foundations of psychological entities and their pathologies on the basis of animal models. Moreover, they also acquire the competence of having worked experimentally at least in a small section and of developing experimental solutions. Methodological skills Ability to pose functional questions so that procedures involving animal experiments emerge, working with these procedures, interpretation and application of the results against the background of the literature. Social skills Scientifically founded thinking and transfer to a real animal experiment, experience with handling and analysing real data (in the form of group work).


32

3.3


In the instructor’s presentation of the topics, it is intended to set the focus so that it is possible to work in the course experimentally within the resources of the department for cognitive neuroscience. Then problems will be defined, not solutions. The students are divided into small groups to work on a project. Each small group studies the relevant literature on a delimited topic and looks for a realistic possibility of solving the problem with an experiment. Every two weeks the entire group will meet and report on interim results. The small work group will visit the instructors frequently to discuss problems. Once a feasible way has been found for an issue, the small group will construct the experiment and conduct it at least to the extent permitted by the duration of the semester. What is important is not whether an experiment could actually be conducted to the end, but rather the elegance and coherency with which it was planned in order to solve a concrete problem. The last meeting will take a synoptic view of the problem solutions developed by the small groups, and each group will present its seminar paper.

4.1

Expected workload

Due to the extensive work required outside of the meetings, the total workload amounts to about 180 hours.

4.2


6

5


In the seminar, the participants are required in every session to take a brief “quiz” on the previous session. For the evaluation of the module, the sum of the performances in the tests and the presentation will be combined at the end with 50% weighting each.

6


The module presupposes basic knowledge in the field of cognitive neurosciences. At least four modules from the area must be taken.

7



8

Frequency of offer


9




33

MNM – 3 Application of Neuropsychological Methods


MNM – 3 Daum/ Suchan

2

Name of the module

Application of neuropsychological methods

3.1

Contents

The goal is to impart the ability to develop farther-reaching research questions in the field of cognitive sciences on the basis of published neuropsychological literature, and to devise, to independently perform and to evaluate corresponding studies. A further goal is to learn the ability to present the results of a study in written form in accordance with the standards of neuroscientific journals.

3.2


Academic skills The students work out a cognitive-neuroscientific question and perform an empirical study independently. Methodological skills Planning and independently performing electrophysiological and neuropsychological studies on human beings, evaluating electrophysiological experiments, analysing studies with functional imaging procedures. Social skills Cooperative planning, performance and evaluation of empirical studies, sensitivity for the special character of neuropsychological issues and ethical aspects.

3.3


The module consists of a seminar and accompanying practical laboratory work. In the seminar, neuropsychological research questions will be discussed on the basis of recent publications and an experimental procedure developed for one’s own study. In the practical laboratory work, data will be collected according to the plan and analysed. The participants will develop study reports analogous to publications in specialist neuroscientific literature.

4.1

Expected workload


4.2


6


34

5


For the evaluation of the module, the performance in the seminar (presentation and handout) and in the practical part (report) will be combined with a weighting ratio of 1 to 1.

6


Basic knowledge of neuropsychology, participation in the module Neuropsychological methods.

7



8

Frequency of offer


9


The module is offered for the M.Sc. in psychology (cognitive neurosciences).


35

Field of Psychological Consulting for Organisations MPO – 1 Social psychology: Group Processes


MPO – 1 Bierhoff

2

Name of the module

Social psychology: Group processes

3.1

Contents

The module consists of the lecture Group socialisation and group dynamics (1 hour per week) and the seminars Conflict regulation and negotiations in groups and Teamwork (2 hours per week each). The module conveys the foundations for understanding social groups with special reference to organisations. In detail, a methodological part can be distinguished from a substantive part. The methodological part comprises procedures for determining group processes as well as the evaluation at the individual and group level. In addition, group developments over time will be presented. The substantive part includes communication, group performance, group dynamics and leadership as well as group-oriented intervention techniques. In this connection, groups within organisations (such as quality circles, project groups, semiautonomous work groups) will be considered. Important topics to be focused on are motivation and action, individual responsibility, voluntary work commitment and cultural comparison.

3.2


Methodological skills Application of procedures to determine group processes, analysis on the individual and group level, process analysis of group developments. Social skills Enhanced understanding of group dynamics, analysis of concrete group situations, tracing the process of group formation from the emergence to the dissolution of groups, making the problems corresponding to each phase transparent, conflicts and developments.

3.3


The module consists of a lecture divided into two parts and two accompanying seminars on the topic. The lecture presents a broad survey of group processes in relationship to other branches of social psychology. Working in groups, the students will work out an introduction for the accompanying seminars on the basis of prescribed publications on the topic, making the connection to the overarching theme clear and pointing out the specific approach of the authors concerned. Furthermore, literature going into greater depth will be presented orally. Special emphasis will be placed on interactive course elements in which group processes are simulated.


36

4.1

Expected workload

As a rule, the total workload amounts to 270 hours due to the extensive amount of preparation for the courses, reviewing and the written work of one week’s extent.

4.2


9

5


The written work will be used for the evaluation of the module.

6


The module presupposes a basic knowledge of social psychology.

7


The module can be completed in two semesters.

8

Frequency of offer

As a rule, the module will be offered annually, at least once every 2 years. Start: winter semester.

9


Compulsory elective subject for the M.Sc. in psychology (psychological consulting for organisations / business psychology). The module can serve as a preparation for the master’s thesis.


37

MPO – 2 Team Management


MPO – 2 Zimolong

2

Name of the module

Team management

3.1

Contents

In addition to the deepening of basic team-related knowledge, the module is characterised by a focus on two topics: 1. concepts and instruments of team management (management conditions, selection, composition, control, development, innovation management); and 2. the development of innovative team concepts and management techniques.

3.2


Academic skills The students should expand their knowledge and acquire abilities to implement and develop standard and novel approaches with respect to:

- team management conditions and concepts - procedures and techniques of team development - conception and implementation of team training - conception and implementation of an evaluation of the measures.

The seminars will provide training in and problem-oriented application of the acquired knowledge. To this end, the students, working in small groups, will perform team-development measures in a business context. They will develop innovative concepts. Methodological skills Management of specific measures on one’s own responsibility and practical implementation.

3.3


The module consists of a lecture and a seminar (2 hours per week). Instruction of the material in the lecture will be primarily characterised by media use and interactive phases as well as continuous testing. In the seminars, a broad spectrum of methods will be used, characterised in particular by a high degree of involvement, initiative and self-organisation on the part of the students and by promotion of creativity. The focus is on practice-oriented project work. The exchange between instructors and students on all courses of the module will be supported by implementing and using the Internet-based instruction and learning platform “blackboard”.

4.1

Expected workload



38

4.2


6

5


The conditions for acquisition of the credit points are course specific: The lecture will conclude with an invigilated final examination. The criteria for seminar performance are: regular participation, oral presentation, conception of a team-development measure, implementation and evaluation of specific measures, poster presentation, report or expert opinion. For specific partial contributions, the students will receive differentiated feedback on their competence from their peers, the instructors and practitioners based on a standardised feedback form. In the evaluation of the module, the performance in the examination and in the seminar will be combined with 50% weighting each.

6


Attendance of the modules in the B.Sc. program for business psychology “Work motivation: Basics” (6 CP) and “Personnel and team development” (6 CP).

7



8

Frequency of offer

The module is offered once every four semesters. Start: winter semester.

9


The module is offered for the M.Sc. in psychology (psychological consulting for organisations / business psychology).


39

MPO – 3 Social Marketing


MPO – 3 Matthies/ Guski

2

Name of the module

Social Marketing

3.1

Contents

The concept of “social marketing” was coined in the early seventies; it refers to the marketing of socially relevant topics in order to achieve acceptance and a change in behaviour in large groups with respect to overarching social goals. The fields of application range from preventive health measures (for example AIDS prevention, non-smoking campaigns) up to environmental topics (for example acceptance of decisions on transportation policy, energy-saving campaigns). The module provides a survey of concepts used to bring about changes of opinion and behaviour in large groups (for example actively caring approach, participative social marketing) and their psychological underpinnings. The students are enabled to reflectively apply selected concepts to current problems (for example safety behaviour on the road, non-smoker protection) and to critically assess their scope, taking account of explanatory approaches from neighbouring disciplines (for example economics).

3.2


Academic skills The students acquire a general knowledge of concepts, theories and findings in the field of social marketing and a deeper knowledge of selected concepts (for example participative social marketing) in selected applications (for example safety behaviour on the road, non-smoker protection). Methodological skills Summary, evaluation and presentation of empirical research results, assessment of the quality of sources, assessment of unpublished reports, case-related application of marketing concepts and strategies to concrete issues. Social skills Openness and understanding for explanatory approaches from neighbouring disciplines, ability to present social marketing approaches so that non-professionals will understand.


40

3.3


The module consists of two courses: a lecture or introductory seminar and an advanced seminar. The lecture or introductory seminar will focus primarily on conveying specialist knowledge (theories and findings in the field of social marketing). In the seminar, selected topics (for example energy saving, sustainable mobility) and marketing concepts will be actively developed and related to practical issues. In addition to independent analysis of studies and findings in a delimited area, discussions with people working in the field and excursions to practice contexts will take place. Before each session of the lecture or introductory seminar, the students will receive texts via the Ruhr University’s e-learning system. The materials developed in the advanced seminar by or in cooperation with the students (handouts to presentations, case studies, role play instructions) will be distributed during or after the corresponding sessions.

4.1

Expected workload


4.2


6

5


The lecture will conclude with an invigilated final examination. The examination will take place in the last week of the lecture period; in case of failure in the module as a whole, the examination can be repeated during the recess period. Seminar performance will also be assessed; according to the seminar orientation, the basis for the assessment can be active participation (for example presentation, preparing a session on a certain topic) or the practical application of the concepts and methods of environmental psychology (for example case study). In the evaluation of the module, the performance in both courses will be combined with 50% weighting each.

6


B.Sc. in psychology or B.Sc. in business psychology

7



8

Frequency of offer

The complete module is offered every two years. Start: winter semester.

9


The module is offered for the M.Sc. in psychology (compulsory elective subject in psychological consulting for organisations) and for the M.Sc. in clinical psychology.


41

MPO – 4 Consulting for Organisations


MPO – 4 Zimolong

2

Name of the module

Consulting for organisations

3.1

Contents

The topics concentrated on are: 1. organisation, consulting and management approaches 2. techniques and instruments for the analysis and consulting of organisations and networks 3. concepts, principles and instruments for the development of performance and learning in organisations and

networks (innovation management) The seminars will provide training in and problem-oriented application of the acquired knowledge. To this end, the students will perform analyses in real-life business, develop a consulting concept, introduce exemplary measures and evaluate their effect.

3.2


Academic skills The students should acquire knowledge of the mentioned approaches, concepts, principles, techniques and instruments. They should learn to assess them on the basis of criteria of psychological application research and to apply them in real-life business. At the same time, the students should be enabled to flexibly adjust and further develop existing concepts of organisational consulting and development as well as innovative consulting concepts and techniques. Methodological skills Management of specific measures on one’s own responsibility and practical implementation.

3.3


The module consists of a lecture and a seminar (2 hours per week). Instruction of the material in the lecture will be primarily characterised by media use and interactive phases as well as continuous testing. In the seminars, a broad spectrum of methods will be used, characterised in particular by a high degree of involvement, initiative and self-organisation on the part of the students and by promotion of creativity. The focus is on practice-oriented project work. The exchange between instructors and students on all courses of the module will be supported by implementing and using the Internet-based instruction and learning platform “blackboard”.

4.1

Expected workload



42

4.2


6

5


The conditions for acquisition of the credit points are course specific: The lecture will conclude with an invigilated final examination. The criteria for seminar performance are: regular participation, conception of a consulting measure, performance of an analysis, implementation and evaluation of specific measures for organisation development, presentation of results and reporting. For specific partial contributions, the students will receive differentiated feedback on their competence from their peers, the instructors and practitioners based on a standardised feedback form. In the evaluation of the module, the performance in the examination and in the seminar will be combined with 50% weighting each.

6


Attendance of the modules in the B.Sc. program for business psychology “Job design and ergonomics” (6 CP) and “Personnel and team development” (6 CP).

7



8

Frequency of offer

The module is offered once every four semesters. Start: summer semester.

9




43

MPO – 5 Theory and Practice of Intercultural Training/Coaching


MPO – 5 Wottawa

2

Name of the module

Theory and practice of intercultural training/coaching

3.1

Contents

The participants should independently learn about the special problems involved when staff members from different cultures work together in organisations, derive consequences for culturally heterogeneous training measures, and devise coaching measures for individual people. These theoretical contents will be practically implemented; the participants in the training measures and the coachees will be foreign students at the Ruhr-University.

3.2


Academic skills The students will acquire the psychological foundations for intercultural training concepts and review existing knowledge of the conception of training measures. Methodological skills Planning techniques, emotion development plans, leadership techniques. Social skills Dealing with people from other cultures, acceptance of the role of the responsible counsellor.

3.3


Supervised work in small groups, training planning, independent conduct of a supervision.

4.1

Expected workload

As a result of the fact that preparation is quite time consuming, the total workload amounts as a rule to 180 hours.

4.2


6

5


Evaluation of the experience report and of the training in a weighting ration of 1:2.

6


Basic experience in the conduct of training (for example in the bachelor program or training as a co-trainer).


44

7


The module can be completed in two semesters (one semester preparation, in the next semester the training).

8

Frequency of offer

The module is offered every year. It begins in the summer semester and is continued in the following winter semester.

9




45

MPO – 6 Intervention and Evaluation in Organisations


MPO – 6 Guski/ Zimolong

2

Name of the module

Intervention and evaluation in organisations

3.1

Contents

The module presents a survey of various forms of intervention and evaluation in organisations, for example private businesses or public institutions. Special emphasis is placed on the precise determination of the goals of the intervention, on the estimation of the effectiveness of an intervention with respect to predefined goals, on the assurance of the internal and external validity of the inferences as well as the possibilities, methods and problems of prospective evaluation of various interventions. The students should learn to assess, apply and if indicated further develop intervention measures, evaluation forms, study designs and study and evaluation methods depending on the intervention goals and the form of the organisation. They should acquire transfer knowledge, and implement and evaluate exemplary intervention measures in an application context.

3.2


Academic skills In this module, the students acquire knowledge of various intervention measures, evaluation forms, study designs, research and evaluation methods used in organisations. Furthermore, they learn to apply this knowledge to new goals of intervention and to further develop methods. Methodological skills Summary, evaluation and communication of empirical research results, evaluation of the quality of sources, systematic procedure in testing claims related to intervention and open research questions, knowledge of information and decision-making paths in organisations. Social skills Sensitivity for structures of thought and argumentation in private, public and semi-public institutions and for seemingly irrational decision-making processes, competence to help in decision making and in case of conflict.


46

3.3


The module consists of a lecture and one of two seminars for selection. In the lecture, a survey of various forms of intervention and evaluation will be presented, whereas the seminars will treat selected fields of application and forms of intervention and evaluation in greater detail. The students will receive documentation for the lecture before each session via the Ruhr-University’s e-learning system; the documentation for the seminars (some of which will be prepared by the students) will be made available in the e-learning system after each session. In the seminars, the primary form of instruction is presentations by students and participatory exercises. Depending on the issue, the students prepare for each session in groups on the basis of a suggested text the issues, procedures and results of an intervention or evaluation, or they present their own concepts and the results of an evaluation measure. Special emphasis will be placed on the connection between the measures and the time frame and institutional context. Counselling interviews and hearings can be performed as role plays.

4.1

Expected workload


4.2


6

5


The lecture will conclude with an invigilated final examination. Performance in the seminar will also be evaluated. It is oriented on the contents of the seminar. The evaluation can consist in equal parts of the performance in the presentation or presentations and active participation in the other sessions of the seminar. Other criteria can be the quality of the conception and/or conduct of an intervention or evaluation measure, the quality of the presentation as well as of the concluding report. In the evaluation of the module, the performance in the examination and in the seminar will be combined with 50% weighting each.

6


B.Sc. in psychology or B.Sc. in business psychology with a good knowledge of non-clinical intervention and evaluation research.

7



8

Frequency of offer

The module is offered once a year. Start: summer semester.

9


The module is offered for the M.Sc. in psychology (compulsory elective subject in psychological consulting for organisations / business psychology), possibly – space permitting – for students of other programs of study who demonstrably have a very good knowledge of the methodological foundations of intervention. The lecture is also offered for the M.Sc. in clinical psychology.


47

MPO – 7 Institutional Consulting


MPO – 7 Guski

2

Name of the module

Institutional Consulting

3.1

Contents

The module conveys a basic knowledge of methods and context conditions of consulting work done by psychologists for (public) institutions such as public authorities, parliamentary committees, courts, transport authorities, health and social institutions. In these consulting measures, there are for the most part three different goals: conflicts within the organisation, quality assurance of institutional work and achievement of a consensus between the institution and its clients or development, implementation and evaluation of an intervention measure. To this end, a knowledge of the institutional context is required, in particular the legal stipulations, the financial, temporal and personnel resources available as well as the formal and informal decision-making processes in the institution concerned. It is conducive to the consulting work itself if methodological principles are adhered to; particularly in the third consulting case, it is helpful to translate the objectives and decisions of these institutions into a program theory (and, if indicated, an implementation theory) from which alternative procedures can be derived for discussion in consulting meetings or in the report.

3.2


Academic skills The students acquire a knowledge of the typical procedures of external or internal consulting agencies working with institutions (for the most part public) and their context conditions. Furthermore, they acquire experience with various forms of consulting and are enabled to implement certain consulting strategies under given conditions. Methodological skills Summary, evaluation and communication of empirical research results, assessment of the quality of sources, assessment of unpublished reports, conduct of interviews with partners from the public or semi-public sector, conduct of workshops and hearings. Social skills Sensitivity for structures of thought and argumentation in public and semi-public institutions and for the degree of communicability of the goals and procedures of institutions to their clients, competence to help in decision making and in case of conflict.

3.3


The module consists of two seminars. In one course, a survey of various forms of consulting is presented


48

together with their context conditions, whereas the second course treats a certain form of consulting in greater detail, to a certain extent drawing on the collaboration of practitioners working in the field. After each seminar, the texts (some of which will be prepared by the students, some by practitioners) will be made available in the e-learning system. The primary forms of instruction are presentations, discussions and participatory exercises. For each session, the students prepare in group work on the basis of a suggested text the issues, procedures and results of an institutional consulting case. Special emphasis is placed on the foundation of the consulting in terms of a program theory as well as practical exercises with consulting interviews or hearings in the form of role play. If practitioners report about their experience in the institutional field, their experience will be discussed in the same or the following session and integrated into a theoretical reference system.

4.1

Expected workload


4.2


6

5


According to the seminar orientation, the basis for the assessment can be active participation (for example presentation, preparing a session on a certain topic) or the practical application of theory-based concepts and methods. In the evaluation of the module, the performance in both seminars will be combined with 50% weighting each.

6


Basic knowledge of forms of non-clinical psychological intervention and evaluation.

7



8

Frequency of offer

The module is offered every two years.

9


The module is offered for the M.Sc. in psychology (compulsory elective subject in the specialisation psychological consulting for organisations) and for the M.Sc. in clinical psychology.


49

Field of Methodology MM – 1 Questionnaire construction


MM – 1 Wottawa

2

Name of the module

Questionnaire construction

3.1

Contents

The participants are intended to broaden their knowledge of test theory. Furthermore, they should apply their theoretical knowledge in the supervision of student work groups in concrete test or questionnaire construction.

3.2


Academic skills The students will deepen and broaden their knowledge of the formal foundations of questionnaires and tests and learn the psychological foundations of communicating them. Methodological skills Supervision of beginners in acquiring formal methods, expertise in handling EDP programs. Social skills Dealing with people for whom the acquisition of this knowledge is often a cognitive and emotional problem.

3.3


The module is conducted in the form of a 2-semester internship-like course. In sessions with the entire group, the students will be familiarised with the tasks of test construction for the supervision of the work groups as well as with the theoretical contents in the area of statistics and test construction. The contents of the theoretical instruction will be deepened by discussing the experience in the student work groups in plenary sessions. An additional compulsory element is the undertaking to supervise a work group (in particular with the academic supervision that this involves) on the part of each participant. Under this student’s supervision, this group should independently construct a questionnaire or test and perform the required statistical evaluations.

4.1

Expected workload

As a result of the fact that preparation is quite time consuming, the total workload amounts as a rule to at least 180 hours.

4.2


6


50

5


For the evaluation of the module, the theoretical examination on statistics and test theory together with the performance as the supervisor of a work group will be combined with 50% weighting each.

6


Knowledge in the field of practical test construction (for example from the B.Sc. program).

7



8

Frequency of offer

The preparation for the supervision of student work groups on questionnaire construction is done in the winter semester, the other parts are offered in the following summer semester. The module is offered annually.

9




51

MM – 2 Multivariate Procedures


MM – 2 Wottawa

2

Name of the module

Multivariate procedures

3.1

Contents

The module conveys the theoretical foundations of the most important multivariate procedures (linear and configural) as well as the application of these procedures in typical issues of psychology including EDP technology. At the same time, the students practise the interpretation of evaluation results.

3.2


Academic skills Existing knowledge of advanced statistics will be deepened and broadened. Methodological skills Handling evaluation programs, work techniques in reporting. Social skills None in particular.

3.3


The module is conducted in the form of a seminar. The foundations are discussed jointly, the evaluation and interpretation of genuine psychological data is trained in small groups.

4.1

Expected workload

As a result of the additional evaluation work, the total workload amounts as a rule to 90 hours.

4.2


3

5


A final evaluation will be done in the form of a written report on the performance of a concrete evaluation of a study.

6


Knowledge of psychological methods and statistics to the approximate extent of “Psychological methods 1 to 3” in the bachelor program. Furthermore, there should be a knowledge of the use of SPSS.

7


The module can be completed in one semester.


52

8

Frequency of offer

The module is offered every year. It begins in the winter semester.

9




53

Other POS Master’s Thesis Tutorial


POS All instructors

2

Name of the module

Master’s thesis tutorial

3.1

Contents

Towards the end of the program of studies leading to the master in psychology, the module is intended to provide a structured discussion forum on current research problems which the participants can deal with in greater depth in their master’s thesis. The intended qualification goal is the ability to deepen the scientific literature relevant to a certain scientific issue, to link it with other topics and to defend the conclusions in a discourse with the other participants in the course. These broadened topics can be the basis for one’s own master’s thesis. This module is meant for students who already have a considerable knowledge of the specialisation in which they wish to write their master’s thesis.

3.2


Academic skills The students acquire knowledge of the current state of scientific discussion and the relevant facts in the specialisation of their selection. Methodological skills Acquisition of the ability to pose questions on scientific topics going beyond the current literature, learning how to write a scientific survey of high quality. Social skills None in particular.

3.3


First, issues corresponding to the specialisations that the students would like to concentrate on in their master’s theses will be outlined by the instructors. Then the students will look for up-to-date literature on these topics and present aspects. The instructors will coordinate these discussions so that the current state of research on a certain specialisation becomes clear. The students work between sessions individually or in very small groups constituted around a topic. At the group meetings, oral presentations will be held on current developments in research; furthermore, brief summaries will be distributed which shall then be discussed in the group with a view both to content and to form. At the end of the course, the students will draw up a literature summary on a current research area.


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4.1

Expected workload

Due to the extensive work required outside of the meetings, the total workload amounts as a rule to 360 hours.

4.2


12

5


In the evaluation of the module, the delivery and rigour of the oral and written presentations will be combined. (The criteria of evaluation will be communicated in detail in advance.)

6


The module presupposes a basic knowledge in the field of the master’s program in psychology selected as the specialisation. For this reason, participation is only worthwhile from the 3rd semester on.

7



8

Frequency of offer

The module can be offered in the summer or in the winter semester as needed.

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Documents

M.Sc. in Psychology As of 1 September 2005 · 2007. 12. 6. · M.Sc. in Psychology As of 1 September 2005 2 Modules in the master’s degree program in psychology Module Field/Module