EDUC 1010 Educational Psychology (WSTC)

Credit Points 10

Coordinator Mitchell Liddle Opens in new window

Description This subject highlights the interacting contributions of biology and environment to the development of children and explores how teachers' knowledge of this process must inform their pedagogy. Specifically, this subject examines classic and current theories and research evidence-base relating to the biological, cognitive, social, emotional, and moral development of children and the implications of these for learning and classroom practice. It includes theoretical perspectives on the brain and learning including memory formation, retention and models of motivation, attention, and knowledge acquisition. This subject dispels common educational neuromyths and focuses on evidence-informed pedagogical practices that support learning, engagement, motivation, and wellbeing in culturally responsive classrooms. This subject is included in the Foundation Phase of the Bachelor/Diploma of Education.

School Education

Discipline Education, Not Elsewhere Classified.

Student Contribution Band

Check your fees via the Fees page.

Level Undergraduate Level 1 subject

Equivalent Subjects TEAC 1011

Restrictions

Students must be enrolled in an existing College Diploma program listed below:

  • 7188 Diploma in Culture, Society and Justice
  • 7189 Diploma in Health Science
  • 7190 Diploma in Business
  • 7191 Diploma in Information and Communication Technologies 
  • 7192 Diploma in Building Design and Construction
  • 7193 Diploma in Engineering Studies
  • 7194 Diploma in Creative Industries and Communications 
  • 7195 Diploma in Arts
  • 7196 Diploma in Science
  • 7197 Diploma in Education Studies

Learning Outcomes

After successful completion of this subject, students will be able to: 

  1. Apply an understanding of issues relating to children’s physical, cognitive, emotional, moral, and social development.
  2. Analyse the major factors that influence students’ motivation and engagement.
  3. Assess instructional strategies designed to support students’ learning and development.
  4. Explain how children’s development is influenced by ecological systems.
  5. Develop an action plan underpinned by relevant theory and research to address the wellbeing and development needs of a child experiencing difficulties at school.
  6. Present effectively, using oral and written forms.

Subject Content

  1. Recognition of context in child and adolescent development
  2. Biological, cognitive, social, emotional, and moral development across childhood and adolescence 
  3. Cognitive processes (learning, attention, memory, executive functions), neuromyths, and implications for teaching and learning
  4. Learning theories and evidence-based pedagogical practice
  5. Motivation theories and implications for teaching and learning
  6. Social and emotional wellbeing in culturally responsive classrooms

Assessment

The following table summarises the standard assessment tasks for this subject. Please note this is a guide only. Assessment tasks are regularly updated, where there is a difference your Learning Guide takes precedence.

Type Length Percent Threshold Individual/Group Task Mandatory
Short Answer 300 + Map 10 N Individual N
Portfolio 750 words 30 N Individual N
Case Study 1000 words 40 N Individual N
Presentation 5 mins per student 20 N Group N

Prescribed Texts

  • Duchesne, S. McMaugh, A., & Mackenzie, E. (2021). Educational Psychology for Learning and Teaching (7th ed.). Cengage Learning Australia.

Teaching Periods

Autumn Block 2 (2025)

Bankstown City

On-site

Subject Contact Mitchell Liddle Opens in new window

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Parramatta City - Macquarie St

On-site

Subject Contact Mitchell Liddle Opens in new window

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Spring Block 2 (2025)

Bankstown City

On-site

Subject Contact Mitchell Liddle Opens in new window

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Parramatta City - Macquarie St

On-site

Subject Contact Mitchell Liddle Opens in new window

View timetable Opens in new window