Psychology and Special Educational Needs, Disability & Inclusion with Foundation Year

Overview

This course combines the study of psychology with special educational needs, disability, and inclusion. It is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the psychological and educational aspects of special needs and disabilities.

Course Description

The course covers a range of topics, including:

• Theories of special educational needs and disability
• Inclusive education and practice
• Psychological perspectives on special needs and disabilities
• Research methods in special educational needs and disability
• Policy and legislation in special educational needs and disability

Entry Requirements

• GCSE English Language and Mathematics at grade 4 (previously C) or above (or equivalent)
• No formal requirement for UCAS points, but applicants will be required to speak with a member of BGU Admissions staff to resolve any questions or queries

Assessment

Assessments in Psychology take place at the end of each module in order to demonstrate understanding of the objectives covered. A wide range of assessment methods is used to support learning, including portfolios, presentations, displays, and examinations.

Careers and Further Study

Graduates of this course may pursue careers in teaching, education, social work, or other fields related to special educational needs and disability. They may also choose to pursue further study at the master's level.

Course Structure

The course is divided into four years, with the first year being a foundation year. The foundation year provides students with a broad introduction to the subject area and helps them develop the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the subsequent years.

Modules

• Foundation Year
  • Self as Learner
  • Resourcing Learning
  • Critical Engagement
  • Critical Thinking
  • The Digital Learner
  • Effective Communication
  • Reflective Learning
  • Academic Writing
• Year 1
  • Researching Psychology I
  • Introduction to Psychology across the Lifespan
  • Conceptual and Historical Issues in Psychology (CHiP)
  • The Whole Child: Holistic Approaches to Meeting Needs
  • From Excluded to Included: A Century of Change
• Year 2
  • Personality and Individual Differences
  • Social Psychology
  • Researching Psychology II
  • Global Approaches to Inclusion
• Year 3
  • Psychology Dissertation
  • BioPsychology
  • Cognitive Psychology
  • Psychological Research Design and Project Preparation
  • Hidden Inequalities
  • Spectrums and Kaleidoscopes
  • Leading the Learning Environment

Academic Staff

• Dr. Julia Lindley-Baker
• Thomasin Nicholds
• Dr. Thomas Dunn
• Dr. Maria Efstratopoulou
• Professor Caroline Horton
• Dr. Tracy Jeffery

Research Areas

The course covers a range of research areas, including:

• Special educational needs and disability
• Inclusive education and practice
• Psychological perspectives on special needs and disabilities
• Research methods in special educational needs and disability
• Policy and legislation in special educational needs and disability

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees for this course are not specified. Please contact the university for more information.

Location

The course is located at Bishop Grosseteste University in Lincoln, UK.

Duration

The course is four years long, with the first year being a foundation year.

Start Date

The course starts in September 2025.

Award

The course leads to a BA (Hons) degree in Psychology and Special Educational Needs, Disability & Inclusion.

Institution Code

The institution code for Bishop Grosseteste University is B38.

UCAS Code

The UCAS code for this course is CX8F.

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Degree Overview:

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Objective:

• Equip students with a critical understanding of sociological, psychological, and philosophical values in the context of Special Educational Needs, Disability, and Inclusion (SENDI).
• Explore policy and practice in different educational, cultural, and social settings.
• Promote appreciation for inclusive, relevant, and ever-changing strategies to meet diverse learning needs.
• Develop knowledge and understanding of different categories of need and acquire skills in meeting needs through examining theory and engaging in research-based placements.

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Structure:

• Four-year program including a Foundation Year.
• Foundation Year equips students with academic skills and knowledge necessary for successful undergraduate study.
• Focuses on core psychological domain and methods, accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS).
• Explores contemporary issues such as mindfulness, psychopathy, and the science of dreaming.

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Outline:

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Year 1 (Foundation Year):

• 8 modules covering academic skills, effective learning techniques, utilizing resources, critical thinking, digital skills, communication skills, reflective learning, and academic writing.

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Year 2:

• Researching Psychology I: Introduces core areas and research methods in psychology.
• Introduction to Psychology across the Lifespan: Developmental psychology across childhood and later development.
• Conceptual and Historical Issues in Psychology (CHiP): Origins and development of psychology as a discipline.
• The Whole Child: Holistic Approaches to Meeting Needs: Holistic approaches to enhance development in educational/care/social settings.
• From Excluded to Included: A Century of Change: Exploring social and educational models of disability in schools and global society.

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Year 3:

• Personality and Individual Differences: Personality structure, biological and environmental factors, and research methods.
• Social Psychology: Breadth and diversity of social psychology as a discipline, ranging from social constructionism to social interactions.
• Researching Psychology II: Advanced research designs, statistical techniques, and qualitative analysis methods.
• **Rhetoric or Reality?
• : Learning difficulties, policy approaches, and meeting individual learner needs.
• Global Approaches to Inclusion: Global perspectives in SEND and inclusion, focusing on national differences and approaches.

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Year 4:

• Psychology Dissertation: Conduct an independent research project demonstrating mastery of academic knowledge and research skills.
• BioPsychology: Biological basis of behavior, emotions, and mental health.
• Cognitive Psychology: Key cognitive processes and approaches, and methodologies.
• Psychological Research Design and Project Preparation: Designing appropriate research projects for the dissertation.
• Hidden Inequalities: Factors impacting learning, including prejudice, exclusion, mental health, and academic progress.
• Leading the Learning Environment: Leadership and management of policy and practice in SEND and inclusion.
• Spectrums and Kaleidoscopes: Complex needs and disabilities, focusing on autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

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Teaching:

• Varied teaching methods including lectures, tutorials, seminars, practical workshops, coursework, and work-based placements.
• Small group seminars and workshops offer opportunities to review key issues raised in lectures.
• Independent study and early, small, and frequent assessments to support and build confidence.

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Careers:

• Psychology: Clinical settings, counselling, mental health services, education, research.
• University Experience: Student-centred environment with a focus on building community and personal connections.

Bishop Grosseteste University: A Summary

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Overview:

Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) is a public university located in Lincoln, England. It is known for its high student satisfaction rates, ranking first in the UK for student satisfaction according to the Times Higher Education. BGU offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses, with a particular focus on teacher training and other education-related programs.

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Services Offered:

BGU provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:

Academic Support:

BGU boasts strong academic support, ranking first in the National Student Survey 2024 for this category.

Student Advice & Wellbeing:

The university offers dedicated support services for student well-being, including counseling and guidance.

Library:

BGU has a well-equipped library with extensive resources for students.

IT Services:

Students have access to various IT resources and support.

Accommodation:

BGU provides on-campus accommodation options for students.

Careers:

The university offers career guidance and support to help students find employment after graduation.

Alumni Network:

BGU has a strong alumni network that provides support and networking opportunities.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

BGU offers a vibrant campus experience with a strong sense of community. Students can participate in various clubs and societies, engage in sports activities, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the Students' Union. The university is located in the historic city of Lincoln, offering a rich cultural experience and numerous attractions.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

High Student Satisfaction:

BGU consistently ranks high in student satisfaction surveys, indicating a positive learning environment and supportive community.

Strong Academic Support:

The university provides excellent academic support services to help students succeed in their studies.

Focus on Teacher Training:

BGU is a leading provider of teacher training programs, offering various routes into teaching.

Vibrant Campus Life:

BGU offers a lively campus experience with numerous opportunities for student engagement.

Location in Lincoln:

The university is situated in a historic and charming city with plenty to offer students.

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Academic Programs:

BGU offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

Undergraduate Courses:

BGU offers a variety of undergraduate degrees in various fields, including education, business, humanities, and social sciences.

Postgraduate Courses:

The university offers postgraduate programs, including Master's degrees and doctoral studies, with a strong focus on teacher training and education-related fields.

Apprenticeships:

BGU offers degree apprenticeships in various fields, allowing students to gain practical experience while earning a degree.

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Other: