Psychology of Human Performance

In this module you'll consider theoretical approaches to human performance and how this may change in response to stress and health. A key focus of this module will be underlying biological mechanisms (e.g. brain structure and function, hormone signalling, sleep, diet), psychological aspects (e.g. personality, motivation, attention) and social impacts (e.g. culture, relationships, connectivity) on optimal, and sub-optimal, human performance. 

This module will examine the unique aspects of human performance in demanding settings, such as defence and security, emergency medicine, and space exploration. You'll explore the enablers and disablers of performance in highly demanding settings, including aspects of individual and team performance, and discover new insights into how to predict who will perform well in these settings from a biopsychosocial perspective. This module will also acknowledge the work of Sylvia Ann Hewlett who proposed the concept of extreme jobs in the corporate world (e.g., working ten or more hours a day, fast paced with tight deadlines) and associated health and performance consequences. 

This module will consider potential interventions for improving individual and team performance, and their effectiveness in different settings. This will include psychological interventions that are based on cognitive behavioural approaches, such as metacognitive techniques, imagery, and self-talk. The role of breath control strategies will also be considered (e.g., box breathing, resonant breathing). You will also consider some examples of group level interventions such as social identity interventions and social network approaches. 
 

In this module you'll develop skills in critical thinking, critical analysis, and research methods in preparation for your Synthesis and Independent Project. The module will comprise lectures and a ‘journal club’ approach where you'll be expected to read and critically discuss key papers in human performance psychology with your tutor. We will integrate research methods in our teaching throughout the module. 
 

In this module, you'll develop independent research skills and synthesise the knowledge that you have gained throughout the course into the development and completion of an independent project. You'll be supported by a supervisor to develop a project proposal (20% assessment) and then complete an independent project (80% assessment). There will be flexibility in options for the type of project that you may wish to conduct (eg research project, literature review, service evaluation, intervention design, whitepaper), and your supervisor will consider your background, experience and future intentions when advising and agreeing on the project design and type.