The Psychology Department hosted its annual UCL lecture and formal dinner on Monday 29th September.
Two psychologists from UCL are working with the Department as Psychologists in Residence and they gave an interesting lecture on Implicit Attitudes and Automaticity. The lecture invited us to consider our attitudes to the world around us and to showed us how these attitudes can be shaped unconsciously by many different factors. We even gained an insight into how Derren Brown works his magic. It is quite disturbing to realise how our minds make a judgement towards something without us being consciously aware and this is driven by our previous experiences and memories. We debated the concept of implicit egotism where people may gravitate towards job titles and favourite letters based on their initials!
The aim of this project is to offer all who study Psychology at FHS access to the high level experience of students who are currently completing their Psychology degree at one of the UKs premier universities. Our resident psychologists will offer their expertise in a variety of ways, from supporting clubs, trips, lessons and ICT, to giving more specialist advice, guidance and lectures.
The benefits of this project extend beyond our school as it additionally offers a wonderful chance for two psychologists at the beginning of their academic career to learn about the rigour and demands of A Level study within a thriving department. For the next academic year, our two residents within the department will be Rachel Casper and Leanne Goodman. Both are looking forward to this unique opportunity and will be supported in all they do by Mrs Hammond.
After the lecture, we enjoyed a three-course dinner at The Ebury Bar and Restaurant. This gave us the opportunity to chat with Rachel and Leanne and ask them more about University life and studying Psychology. We learnt a great deal about the number of hours expected in the lab when studying Psychology whilst enjoying a sumptuous chocolate torte!
We look forward to the many events and opportunities offered by our Psychologists in Residence and this starts this month with the Psychology Societys first session about Eye-Witness Testimony. A great start to a busy year for Psychology!
