Virtual Reality in Psychology Research (PGT) PSYCH5105

  • Academic Session: 2024-25
  • School: School of Psychology and Neuroscience
  • Credits: 20
  • Level: Level 5 (SCQF level 11)
  • Typically Offered: Semester 1
  • Available to Visiting Students: No
  • Collaborative Online International Learning: No

Short Description

This course introduces students to theoretical and practical aspects of Virtual Reality research and applications which are relevant to psychology.

Timetable

10 weeks x 2 hours

Requirements of Entry

At least a 2:1 honours degree or equivalent

Excluded Courses

None

Assessment

Critical Review (3,000 words) - 100%

Course Aims

To introduce students to theoretical and practical aspects of Virtual Reality research and applications which are relevant to psychology. This is achieved by practitioners in the field providing the theoretical background, details of experimental techniques and recent results from their research. As a result, students will be provided with a critical appreciation and technical grounding for their own research projects in Virtual Reality.

Intended Learning Outcomes of Course

By the end of this course students will be able to:

■ Critically evaluate the history, application and software/hardware background of Virtual Reality in areas of research in psychology where Virtual Reality has been used.

■ Critically evaluate the practical applications as well as the costs and benefits of using VR technology,

■ Critically evaluate and compare the use of Virtual Reality and other types of Extended Reality (XR) in psychological research, with particular focus on the methodological challenges and future potential of the field.

■ Demonstrate the ability to design a study using Virtual Reality, specifying the data that will be collected as well as the means of collection and subsequent reporting of that study to a professional standard.

■ Critically evaluate the role of key companies and start-ups in the field, and their link to academic research with a focus on appraising the importance of interdisciplinary communication and networking options.

Minimum Requirement for Award of Credits

Students must submit at least 75% by weight of the components (including examinations) of the course's summative assessment.