UWA Handbook 2026

Unit Overview

Description

How do our brains interpret inputs from, and govern our interactions with, the world? This unit examines the scientific theories, concepts and processes that form the bases of our perceptual experience. The unit explores historical and contemporary approaches to understanding sensory perception, attention and atypical perception. Compelling demonstrations and experiential learning activities are used to illustrate how psychological and biological research methods may be used to study brain function. In the associated practical classes, self-directed learning skills and teamwork activities are taught and sequenced to facilitate critical analysis of a contemporary issue in human perception and behaviour.

Credit

6 points

Offering
(see Timetable)

Availability	Location	Mode
Semester 2	UWA (Perth)	On-campus

Details for undergraduate courses

• Level 3 core unit in the Psychology; Psychological and Behavioural Sciences major sequences
• Level 3 elective

Outcomes

Students are able to (1) demonstrate understanding of the importance of the scientific method in advancing psychological knowledge in perception and the biological basis of behaviour; (2) demonstrate an understanding of multiple sensory systems in perceptually typical and atypical individuals; (3) understand historical and contemporary research methods for studying perceptual function and ability; (4) demonstrate scientific understanding and communication skills in interpreting and presenting data from different contemporary research techniques; and (5) demonstrate an ability to analyse and critique psychological theory in written and oral summaries of scientific research.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) assignments; (2) in-class assessment; and (3) examination. Further information is available in the unit outline.

Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)

Associate Professor Jason Bell

Unit rules

Prerequisites

Successful completion of

three Unit(s) PSYC1101 Psychology: Mind and Brain
and Unit(s) PSYC1102 Psychology: Behaviour in Context
and Unit(s) PSYC2203 Introduction to Quantitative Methods in Psychology

Incompatibility

Unit(s) PSYC2218 Perception and Sensory Neuropsychology

Contact hours

lectures: 2 hours per week
labs 5 x 2 hours

Note

Enrolled students can access unit material via the LMS (Learning Management System).

Student are exposed to topics in psychology units that may cause some discomfort or distress in certain individuals (e.g. depression, suicide, trauma, eating disorders). They also require to demonstrate skills across a variety of different formats and contexts (e.g. written assessments, participation in practical work, contribution to group discussions, oral presentations, examinations), and so it is important to carefully consider whether they are able to cope with the demands of studying psychology and whether there is anything that would impact upon the ability to complete the requirements of the unit. Refer to individual unit outlines for more detailed unit information.