Students

PSYX1101 – Introduction to Psychology I

2025 – Session 3, Online-flexible

General Information

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Unit convenor and teaching staff Unit convenor and teaching staff Unit Convenor
Mem Mahmut
Credit points Credit points
10
Prerequisites Prerequisites
Corequisites Corequisites
Co-badged status Co-badged status
Unit description Unit description

In this unit, you will be introduced to the broad and diverse field of psychology. A range of topics in psychology will be covered in lectures and tutorial activities, learning both the theoretical basis and practical applications of psychological science. Key communication skills will be developed and demonstrated by working on a group presentation, applying the empirical science of psychology for broader social good. 

Important Academic Dates

Information about important academic dates including deadlines for withdrawing from units are available at https://www.mq.edu.au/study/calendar-of-dates

Learning Outcomes

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

  • ULO1: Demonstrate broad knowledge of the underlying principles, theories and concepts, and skills in the core topics of introductory psychology (Capability 1: Scientist and Scholar).
  • ULO2: Demonstrate research-informed pursuit of scholarly inquiry by analysing, critiquing, and discussing theory and research in introductory psychology using scientific evidence (Capability 1: Scientist and Scholar).
  • ULO3: Communicate effectively utilising multiple modes to convey thoughtful, scientifically driven information about introductory psychology (Capability 2: Practitioner).
  • ULO4: Apply introductory psychology knowledge in a manner that is culturally appropriate and sensitive to diversity of individuals (Capability 3: Citizen).   
  • ULO5: Demonstrate knowledge and behaviour of appropriate ethics and values in psychology (Capability 4: Professional).

General Assessment Information

Grade descriptors and other information concerning grading are contained in the Macquarie University Assessment Policy.

All final grades are determined by a grading committee, in accordance with the Macquarie University Assessment Policy, and are not the sole responsibility of the Unit Convenor.

Students will be awarded a final grade and a mark which must correspond to the grade descriptors specified in the Assessment Procedure (clause 128).

To pass this unit, you must demonstrate sufficient evidence of achievement of the learning outcomes, meet any ungraded requirements, and achieve a final mark of 50 or better.

Further details for each assessment task will be available on iLearn.

Late Submissions

Unless a Special Consideration request has been submitted and approved, a 5% penalty (OF THE TOTAL POSSIBLE MARK) will be applied each day a written assessment is not submitted, up until the 7th day (including weekends). After the 7th day, a grade of ‘0’ will be awarded even if the assessment is submitted. Submission time for all written assessments is set at 11.55pm. A 1-hour grace period is provided to students who experience a technical concern. 

 For example:

Number of days (hours) late

Total Possible Marks

Deduction

Raw mark

Final mark

1 day (1-24 hours)

100

5

75

70

2 days (24-48 hours)

100

10

75

65

3 days (48-72 hours)

100

15

75

60

7 days (144-168 hours)

100

35

75

40

>7 days (>168 hours)

100

-

75

0

 

For any late submissions of time-sensitive tasks, such as scheduled tests/exams, performance assessments/presentations, and/or scheduled practical assessments/labs, students need to submit an application for Special Consideration.

Assessment Tasks

Name Weighting Hurdle Due
Group Presentation 35% No 11/01/2026
Online invigilated examination 45% No Official Exam Period
Written Reflection 20% No 23/01/2026

Group Presentation

Assessment Type 1: Presentation
Indicative Time on Task 2: 30 hours
Due: 11/01/2026
Weighting: 35%

 

Working in small groups, you will develop and deliver a presentation on a key introductory psychology topic, based on the review of related scientific evidence.

 


On successful completion you will be able to:
  • Demonstrate broad knowledge of the underlying principles, theories and concepts, and skills in the core topics of introductory psychology (Capability 1: Scientist and Scholar).
  • Demonstrate research-informed pursuit of scholarly inquiry by analysing, critiquing, and discussing theory and research in introductory psychology using scientific evidence (Capability 1: Scientist and Scholar).
  • Communicate effectively utilising multiple modes to convey thoughtful, scientifically driven information about introductory psychology (Capability 2: Practitioner).
  • Apply introductory psychology knowledge in a manner that is culturally appropriate and sensitive to diversity of individuals (Capability 3: Citizen).   
  • Demonstrate knowledge and behaviour of appropriate ethics and values in psychology (Capability 4: Professional).

Online invigilated examination

Assessment Type 1: Examination
Indicative Time on Task 2: 30 hours
Due: Official Exam Period
Weighting: 45%

 

You will sit the final examination held within the University’s formal exam period, in accordance with relevant requirements.

 


On successful completion you will be able to:
  • Demonstrate broad knowledge of the underlying principles, theories and concepts, and skills in the core topics of introductory psychology (Capability 1: Scientist and Scholar).
  • Demonstrate research-informed pursuit of scholarly inquiry by analysing, critiquing, and discussing theory and research in introductory psychology using scientific evidence (Capability 1: Scientist and Scholar).
  • Communicate effectively utilising multiple modes to convey thoughtful, scientifically driven information about introductory psychology (Capability 2: Practitioner).
  • Apply introductory psychology knowledge in a manner that is culturally appropriate and sensitive to diversity of individuals (Capability 3: Citizen).   
  • Demonstrate knowledge and behaviour of appropriate ethics and values in psychology (Capability 4: Professional).

Written Reflection

Assessment Type 1: Reflective Writing
Indicative Time on Task 2: 12 hours
Due: 23/01/2026
Weighting: 20%

 

You will submit a short written reflection on your experiences with psychological research and issues of representation in psychological science.

 


On successful completion you will be able to:
  • Demonstrate broad knowledge of the underlying principles, theories and concepts, and skills in the core topics of introductory psychology (Capability 1: Scientist and Scholar).
  • Demonstrate research-informed pursuit of scholarly inquiry by analysing, critiquing, and discussing theory and research in introductory psychology using scientific evidence (Capability 1: Scientist and Scholar).
  • Apply introductory psychology knowledge in a manner that is culturally appropriate and sensitive to diversity of individuals (Capability 3: Citizen).   
  • Demonstrate knowledge and behaviour of appropriate ethics and values in psychology (Capability 4: Professional).

1 If you need help with your assignment, please contact:

  • the academic teaching staff in your unit for guidance in understanding or completing this type of assessment
  • the Writing Centre for academic skills support.

2 Indicative time-on-task is an estimate of the time required for completion of the assessment task and is subject to individual variation

Delivery and Resources

As a student enrolled in this unit, you will engage in a range of online learning activities, including readings, online modules, videos and lecture modules. Details can be found on the iLearn site for this unit.

Technology Used

Active participation in the learning activities throughout the unit requires students to have a reliable internet connection and access to a laptop or desktop computer equipped with a working camera and microphone, which is essential for completing the final exam.

Delivery:

2 to 3 x 1-2-hours pre-recorded, lecture modules most weeks.

2 to 3 x 1.5 hour of tutorial content completed online most weeks. Note that these are not live tutorials with a tutor, but instead students complete readings, quizzes and make forum posts at a time that is convenient for them during the week.

Required Text*:

1. Title: Psychology: From Inquiry to Understanding (Revel Psychology).

*Note that required text may change so check the iLearn page for the required text/s before making any purchases.

Online resources:

iLearn website: https://ilearn.mq.edu.au

Unit Schedule

Week Official Release Date Lecture Module and Topic Tutorial theme and overview
1a Dec 15 Unit Introduction Introductions and Introduction to the unit. Get to know your tutor and fellow students, plus an Introduction our unit
1b Dec 15 Indigenous Psychology Cross-Cultural and Indigenous Psychology. Non-Western approaches to psychology.
1c Dec 15 History & Methods Diversity and Inclusion in Psychological Research - Part 1. An introduction to principles of diversity and inclusion (D & I) in psychological research. Group work reviewing D & I guidelines relevant for Individual and Group Assessment.
2a Dec 22 Psychological Assessment Diversity and Inclusion in Psychology Research - Part 2. Time to work on Group Assessment with group members.
2b Dec 22 Learning  Learning Practical. Extension of learning lectures with exercises.
2c Dec 22 Forensic Psychology No tutorial content
3a Jan 5 Personality Personality. Extension of the personality lectures with exercises.
3b Jan 5 Psychological Problems Psychological Problems. A focus on four different psychological disorders.
4a Jan 12 Resilience, grit and growth mindset Neuropsychology computer exercises.
4b Jan 12 Social Psychology Social Psychology. Activity on friendships.
5a Jan 19 Biological bases Neural Signals. An extension of the biological bases lectures with a focus on neural signalling.
5b Jan 19 Final Examination Information No tutorial content

Policies and Procedures

Macquarie University policies and procedures are accessible from Policy Central (https://policies.mq.edu.au). Students should be aware of the following policies in particular with regard to Learning and Teaching:

Students seeking more policy resources can visit Student Policies (https://students.mq.edu.au/support/study/policies). It is your one-stop-shop for the key policies you need to know about throughout your undergraduate student journey.

To find other policies relating to Teaching and Learning, visit Policy Central (https://policies.mq.edu.au) and use the search tool.

Student Code of Conduct

Macquarie University students have a responsibility to be familiar with the Student Code of Conduct: https://students.mq.edu.au/admin/other-resources/student-conduct

Results

Results published on platform other than eStudent, (eg. iLearn, Coursera etc.) or released directly by your Unit Convenor, are not confirmed as they are subject to final approval by the University. Once approved, final results will be sent to your student email address and will be made available in eStudent. For more information visit connect.mq.edu.au or if you are a Global MBA student contact globalmba.support@mq.edu.au

Academic Integrity

At Macquarie, we believe academic integrity – honesty, respect, trust, responsibility, fairness and courage – is at the core of learning, teaching and research. We recognise that meeting the expectations required to complete your assessments can be challenging. So, we offer you a range of resources and services to help you reach your potential, including free online writing and maths support, academic skills development and wellbeing consultations.

Student Support

Macquarie University provides a range of support services for students. For details, visit http://students.mq.edu.au/support/

Academic Success

Academic Success provides resources to develop your English language proficiency, academic writing, and communication skills.

The Library provides online and face to face support to help you find and use relevant information resources. 

Student Services and Support

Macquarie University offers a range of Student Support Services including:

Student Enquiries

Got a question? Ask us via the Service Connect Portal, or contact Service Connect.

IT Help

For help with University computer systems and technology, visit http://www.mq.edu.au/about_us/offices_and_units/information_technology/help/

When using the University's IT, you must adhere to the Acceptable Use of IT Resources Policy. The policy applies to all who connect to the MQ network including students.

Inclusion and Diversity

Social inclusion at Macquarie University is about giving everyone who has the potential to benefit from higher education the opportunity to study at university, participate in campus life and flourish in their chosen field. The University has made significant moves to promote an equitable, diverse and exciting campus community for the benefit of staff and students. It is your responsibility to contribute towards the development of an inclusive culture and practice in the areas of learning and teaching, research, and service orientation and delivery. As a member of the Macquarie University community, you must not discriminate against or harass others based on their sex, gender, race, marital status, carers' responsibilities, disability, sexual orientation, age, political conviction or religious belief. All staff and students are expected to display appropriate behaviour that is conducive to a healthy learning environment for everyone.

Professionalism

In the Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, professionalism is a key capability embedded in all our courses.

As part of developing professionalism, students are expected to actively engage with all learning activities provided in this unit, including discussion boards, team-based tasks, and any work-integrated learning components where applicable. Although the unit is delivered asynchronously, you are still required to meet all deadlines for assessments and participation tasks. As an adult learner, you have flexibility in how you manage your study, but please note that these activities are designed to support your success. Limited engagement or missed deadlines may impact your ability to successfully complete this unit. If you encounter difficulties engaging with any activity, please reach out to your teaching staff as soon as possible.

Another dimension of professionalism is respect for your peers and teaching staff. When participating in online discussions or collaborative tasks, contribute thoughtfully and courteously. Ensure your posts and responses are constructive and relevant to the topic. When using your device for class-related activities, close other applications to avoid distractions. Treat fellow students with respect, and if you are uncomfortable participating in any specific activity, please inform the relevant academic staff.


Unit information based on version 2025.03 of the Handbook