Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

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Unit Overview

Description

This unit explores the intersection of psychology and the law, specifically as psychology is applied within justice agencies and various jurisdictions including criminal and family law. Topics include the role of psychologists in the family and criminal justice systems, victimology, sexual and other violent offending, eyewitness testimony/identification and juror decision making, child witnesses, psychology of law enforcement (including investigative psychology), therapeutic jurisprudence and forensic mental health.

Credit
6 points
Details for undergraduate courses
  • Level 2 elective
Outcomes

Students have knowledge of (1) psycho-legal explanations for criminal and disputant behaviour; and (2) various ways that law, the justice systems and psychology interact. Students also have skills in (1) analysing criminal and disputant behaviour; (2) applying basic criminological and dispute resolution theory to popular accounts of crime and litigation; (3) using some criminological, psychological and legal databases; and (4) written and oral communication.

Assessment

Students demonstrate achievement of the outcomes in a variety of assessment methods which may include a reflective journal, a research essay, group presentation and a final examination. Further assessment information is provided in the unit outline.



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

Unit Coordinator(s)
Associate Professor Jill Howieson
Unit rules
Prerequisites
LAWS1111 Law, Conflict and Change (formerly LAWS1111 Legal Systems)
Co-requisites
LAWS1110 Crime and Society
Contact hours
lectures: 2 hours per week
tutorials: 1 hour per week
Note
Students may also take this unit if they have acquired the equivalent skills in other Level 1 units.
  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Unit readings, including any essential textbooks, are listed in the unit outline for each unit, one week prior the commencement of study. The unit outline will be available via the LMS and the UWA Handbook one week prior the commencement of study. Reading lists and essential textbooks are subject to change each semester. Information on essential textbooks will also be made available on the Essential Textbooks. This website is updated regularly in the lead up to semester so content may change. It is recommended that students purchase essential textbooks for convenience due to the frequency with which they will be required during the unit. A limited number of textbooks will be made available from the Library in print and will also be made available online wherever possible. Essential textbooks can be purchased from the commercial vendors to secure the best deal. The Student Guild can provide assistance on where to purchase books if required. Books can be purchased second hand at the Guild Secondhand bookshop (second floor, Guild Village), which is located on campus.
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.