PY2BCH-Behaviour Change

Module Provider: Psychology
Number of credits: 20 [10 ECTS credits]
Level:5
Terms in which taught: Spring term module
Pre-requisites: PY1IPR Introduction to Psychological Research
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2022/3

Module Convenor: Dr Daniel Lamport
Email: daniel.lamport@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

This module explores different approaches to understanding why, when, and how behaviour change does or does not occur. Students will examine how theories and models from different disciplines (e.g., health, clinical, educational, sports science, behavioural economics, etc.) can be used in the implementation and evaluation of behaviour change interventions. This module also evaluates research methods relevant to behaviour change.Ìý

Aims:

This module aims to introduce the principles of behaviour change. Students will learn the basic principles of research methods used to inform the development, implementation, and evaluation of interventions. This module also demonstrates how to apply evidence-based frameworks to a wide range of practical problems.Ìý

Assessable learning outcomes:

By the end of this module, students will be able to:Ìý

• Describe and critically evaluate key theories and models of behaviour change and understand the impact of individual differences in behavioural outcomes.ÌýÌý


• Understand the use of behaviour change interventions in different disciplines and applications including health, policy, digital technologies.ÌýÌý


• Critically assess the value of research in the development, implementation, and evaluation of behaviour change interventions.Ìý

Additional outcomes:

The varied application of behaviour change content provides a solid grounding for students to apply theory and practice into different career avenues including marketing, policy, user testing, and various health professions.Ìý

Students will gain a range of skills that can enhance employability, including professionalism, ethical sensitivity, commercial awareness. The assessment method enables students to develop career-relevant competencies such as written and oral communications, work-based problem-solving, and team work.ÌýÌý

Outline content:

• This module covers key theories and models of behaviour change including Michie’s Behaviour Change Wheel, social cognition models, learning theories, and implementation intentions alongside.Ìý


• The topics will focus on the design, implementation and evaluation of behaviour change interventions using frameworks including behaviour change taxonomy and intervention mapping.ÌýÌý


• The application of behaviour change interventions will be discussed within the context of health and clinical care; education and development; consumer behaviour, and digital technology.Ìý


• The practice and implementation of behaviour change will also be discussed within public policy and local community/government initiatives.Ìý

Global context:

This module will consider the global context of the research and its approaches, with an aim to improve students’ understanding of how behaviour change can be context-bound.Ìý Internationally-relevant examples will be used to illustrate the similarities and differences of research on behaviour change internationally.Ìý

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

• Seminars (10 x 2 hours)Ìý


• Tutorials (feedback/feedforward on poster)Ìý


• Guided independent study (recommended reading provided)Ìý

Contact Hours:

NB: The contact hours in the table below are indicative of the contact hours for students studying this module in the UK, and may vary for students taking this module at branch campuses.