PSYCHOLOGY (Code No. 037)
Psychology is introduced as an elective subject at the higher secondary stage of school education. As a discipline, psychology specializes in the study of experiences, behaviours and mental processes of human beings within a socio-cultural and socio- historical context. This course purports to introduce the learners to the basic ideas, principles and methods in psychology so as to enable them to understand themselves and their social world better. The emphasis is put on creating interest and exposure needed by learners to develop their own knowledge base and understanding.
The course deals with psychological knowledge and practices which are contextually rooted. It emphasizes the complexity of behavioural processes and discourages simplistic cause-effect thinking. This is pursued by encouraging critical reasoning, allowing students to appreciate the role of cultural factors in behaviour, and illustrating how biology and experience shape behaviour. The course while developing an appreciation of subjectivity, also focuses on multiplicity of worldviews.
It is suggested that the teaching – learning processes should involve students in evolving their own understanding. therefore, teaching of psychology should be based on the use of case studies, narratives, experiential exercises, analysis of common everyday experiences, etc.
The present effort at reforming and updating the syllabus is based on the feedback received from the teachers and students as well as some new educational and curricular concerns such as, the curriculum load, interdisciplinary approach, issues related to gender parity, concerns of special and marginalised groups, peace and environmental concerns, and inculcating citizenship values.
- To develop appreciation about human behaviour and human mind in the context of learners’ immediate society and environment.
- To develop in learners an appreciation of multidisciplinary nature of psychological knowledge and its application in various aspects of life.
- To enable learners to become perceptive, socially aware and self -reflective.
- To facilitate students’ quest for personal growth and effectiveness, and to enable them to become responsive and responsible citizens.