What is an AEA in psychology?

The AEA in psychology is designed to help candidates develop and demonstrate a deeper understanding of psychology than is required at advanced level. It encourages candidates to demonstrate this depth of knowledge and understanding through:

• evaluating information and evidence about how psychology can be used and applied in society
• applying psychological concepts, theories, approaches and research methodology creatively and in novel situations
• understanding and evaluating the range of methods and techniques used by psychologists to collect and analyse information
• bringing together and using knowledge of the ways in which different areas of psychology relate to each other
• communicating knowledge and understanding of psychology coherently and effectively.

The AEA qualifications:

• will be included in the UCAS tariff from 2006
• are based on Advanced GCE subject criteria
• test depth of understanding and ability to think critically and creatively
• test connections between different elements of the subject
• require no additional teaching or resources.

All AEAs will have a 100 per cent external assessment.