This module provides an opportunity to study the literature on group processes at an advanced level and familiarises students with current theorising and research on the psychology of groups and teams in organisations. The module introduces theoretical and empirical background, and uses these to help students develop ideas for further research and practice.
The module builds upon knowledge of social psychology gained at undergraduate level and draws primarily on small group research in social and organisational psychology, but perspectives from other fields such as moral psychology and economics will also be considered. Seminar topics include social identity, group cohesion, status and leadership, creativity, social dilemmas, trust/distrust, as well as moral judgment and behaviour. The module involves a great deal of student presentation, participation and discussion.
Private Study: 178
Contact Hours: 22
Total: 200
Compulsory to the following courses:
• MSc Organisational Psychology
Optional to the following courses:
• MSc Political Psychology
• MSc Social Psychology
Main assessment methods
Presentation (approx. 30 minutes, non-prescriptive) – 40%*
Research Proposal (4,000 words) – 60%*
*this element is pass compulsory and must be passed to achieve the learning outcomes of the module
Reassessment methods
Like-for-Like
The University is committed to ensuring that core reading materials are in accessible electronic format in line with the Kent Inclusive Practices.
The most up to date reading list for each module can be found on the university's reading list pages.
See the library reading list for this module (Canterbury)
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1 Demonstrate advanced knowledge of the core domains of group processes; particularly as they relate to teams and organisations
2 Understand a range of conceptual, historical, theoretical, and philosophical issues underlying the role of groups and teams in organisations
3 Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of evolutionary perspectives on human group behaviour;
4 Develop the intellectual skill of critical reflection when considering the diversity of perspectives, including psychological, management, and evolutionary perspectives, that underpin the study of groups, teams, and organisations
5 Show key intellectual skills when critically evaluating theoretical and empirical literature on group processes;
6 Design meaningful research studies and write a research proposal which link psychological science to organisational issues;
7 Apply psychological research about groups and teams in organisations to management and business contexts.
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