Handbook : Unit informationEdith Cowan University

School: Arts and Humanities

This unit information may be updated and amended immediately prior to semester. To ensure you have the correct outline, please check it again at the beginning of semester.

• Unit Title

  Learning and Motivation

• Unit Code

  PSY2301

• Year

  2016

• Enrolment Period

  1

• Version

  1

• Credit Points

  15

• Full Year Unit

  N

• Mode of Delivery

  On Campus
  Online

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Description

This unit examines research and theory that addresses the question of why people behave as they do. Learning theory focuses on the influence of preceding and consequent stimuli in the behaviour of individuals and groups, and looks at principles of behaviour modification. A range of motivational explanations of behaviour is examined, and the roles of emotional and cognitive processes are considered. The unit includes applications of motivation theory to areas such as work, education, and sport.

Prerequisite Rule

Students must pass 2 units from PSY1101, PSY1102

Equivalent Rule

Unit was previously coded PSY4301

Learning Outcomes

On completion of this unit students should be able to:

1. Account for the range of motivation in applied settings and propose ways of appropriately raising motivation levels.
2. Apply knowledge of psychology, society and the workplace/influencing systems.
3. Demonstrate effective oral communication skills.
4. Describe concepts, assumptions, and parameters of the behaviour analysis model as applied to the development and maintenance of behaviour.
5. Discuss from a number of theoretical positions the factors that initiate, direct, and sustain behaviour.
6. Evaluate current research in the psychology of learning and motivation.
7. Observe, record, and analyse behaviour in terms of its antecedents and consequences.
8. Write a standard report using American Psychological Association (APA) structure and formatting conventions.

Unit Content

1. Principles and techniques of learning and behaviour change.
2. The measurement and analysis of behaviour.
3. Theoretical orientations toward explaining motivation.
4. Aspects of motivation, including: motives for achievement and affiliation, motivation associated with goals as well as intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, and the motivational role of emotions.
5. Current research areas in learning and motivation.
6. The application of learning and motivation theory in applied settings (e.g. educational settings, the work environment, sport and leisure).

Additional Learning Experience Information

Lectures, tutorials, and an applied project.

Assessment

GS1 GRADING SCHEMA 1 Used for standard coursework units

Students please note: The marks and grades received by students on assessments may be subject to further moderation. All marks and grades are to be considered provisional until endorsed by the relevant Board of Examiners.

Text References

• ^ PSY2301 Learning and motivation (2015). (4th ed.). Australia: Pearson.
• Reeve, J. (2005). Understanding emotion and motivation. (5th ed.). Hoboken, NJ: Wiley.
• Mazur, J. E. (2006). Learning and behaviour. (6th ed.). NJ: Pearson.
• Deckers, L. (2005). Motivation: Biological, psychological, and environmental. (2nd ed.). Needham Heights, MA: Allyn & Bacon.
• Chance, P. (2003). Learning and behaviour. (5th ed.). Pacific Grove, CA: Brooks/Cole.
• Schunk, D. H. (2008). Learning theories: An educational perspective. (5th ed.). NJ: Pearson.

Journal References

• Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis
• Journal of Organizational Behavior Management
• Journal of Personality and Social Psychology
• Journal of School Psychology
• Research in Developmental Disabilities
• Educational Psychology
• Child and Family Behavior Therapy
• Behaviour Change
• School Psychology Review
• Behavior Modification
• Annual Review of Psychology
• Behavioral Interventions

^ Mandatory reference

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