Aqa GCSE Psychology | Study Online Starting Today

Course Content

Which lessons are in the GCSE Psychology 2026 course?

Cognition and Behaviour - Development 35 lessons

Early Brain Development 10 lessons

1 Basic Brain Development

2 Neural Structures in the Womb

3 Brain Stem Development

4 Thalamus and Cerebellum

5 Cortex Development

6 Autonomic Functions Development

7 Sensory Processing Development

8 Movement and Cognition Development

9 Nature vs Nurture in Development

10 Review and Practice - Brain Development

Effects of Learning on Development 10 lessons

1 Dweck Mindset Theory

2 Fixed Mindset

3 Growth Mindset

4 Role of Praise in Learning

5 Self-efficacy Beliefs

6 Learning Styles Introduction

7 Verbalisers and Visualisers

8 Willingham Learning Theory

9 Criticism of Learning Styles

10 Review and Practice - Learning and Development

Piaget Stage Theory 11 lessons

1 Piaget Theory Introduction

2 Assimilation and Accommodation

3 Sensorimotor Stage

4 Pre-operational Stage

5 Concrete Operational Stage

6 Formal Operational Stage

7 Egocentricity Reduction

8 Conservation Development

9 McGarrigle and Donaldson Study

10 Hughes Policeman Doll Study

11 Review and Practice - Piaget Stages

Piaget Theory in Education 4 lessons

1 Educational Applications

2 Stage-appropriate Learning

3 Active Learning Principles

4 Review and Practice - Educational Applications

Cognition and Behaviour - Memory 22 lessons

Memory as an Active Process 8 lessons

1 Theory of Reconstructive Memory

2 Effort After Meaning Concept

3 Bartlett War of the Ghosts Study

4 Factors Affecting Memory Accuracy

5 Interference in Memory

6 Context Effects on Memory

7 False Memories

8 Review and Practice - Reconstructive Memory

Processes of Memory 4 lessons

1 Encoding, Storage and Retrieval

2 Types of Memory - Episodic, Semantic and Procedural

3 How Memories are Encoded and Stored

4 Review and Practice - Memory Processes

Structures of Memory 10 lessons

1 The Multi-store Model Introduction

2 Sensory Memory Store

3 Short-term Memory Store

4 Long-term Memory Store

5 Coding in Memory Stores

6 Capacity of Memory Stores

7 Duration of Memory Stores

8 Primacy and Recency Effects

9 Murdock Serial Position Curve Study

10 Review and Practice - Memory Structures

Cognition and Behaviour - Perception 41 lessons

Factors Affecting Perception 8 lessons

1 Perceptual Set Introduction

2 Culture and Perception

3 Motivation and Perception

4 Emotion and Perception

5 Expectation and Perception

6 Gilchrist and Nesberg Study

7 Bruner and Minturn Study

8 Review and Practice - Perceptual Factors

Gibson Direct Theory of Perception 5 lessons

1 Nature vs Nurture in Perception

2 Direct Perception Theory

3 Motion Parallax

4 Real World Information for Perception

5 Review and Practice - Gibson Theory

Gregory Constructivist Theory 4 lessons

1 Constructivist Theory Introduction

2 Role of Inferences in Perception

3 Past Experience and Perception

4 Review and Practice - Gregory Theory

Sensation and Perception 3 lessons

1 Difference Between Sensation and Perception

2 Basic Principles of Perception

3 Review and Practice - Sensation vs Perception

Visual Cues and Constancies 9 lessons

1 Monocular Depth Cues Introduction

2 Height in Plane

3 Relative Size

4 Occlusion

5 Linear Perspective

6 Binocular Depth Cues Introduction

7 Retinal Disparity

8 Convergence

9 Review and Practice - Depth Cues

Visual Illusions 12 lessons

1 What are Visual Illusions?

2 Ambiguity in Visual Illusions

3 Misinterpreted Depth Cues

4 Fiction in Visual Illusions

5 Size Constancy

6 The Ponzo Illusion

7 The Muller-Lyer Illusion

8 Rubin Vase

9 The Ames Room

10 The Kanizsa Triangle

11 The Necker Cube

12 Review and Practice - Visual Illusions

Cognition and Behaviour - Research Methods 64 lessons

Correlation 5 lessons

1 Understanding Association

2 Scatter Diagrams

3 Correlational Relationships

4 Strengths and Weaknesses of Correlations

5 Review and Practice - Correlation

Data Handling 12 lessons

1 Quantitative vs Qualitative Data

2 Primary vs Secondary Data

3 Computation and Standard Form

4 Ratios, Fractions and Percentages

5 Descriptive Statistics

6 Mean, Median and Mode

7 Range as Measure of Dispersion

8 Frequency Tables and Diagrams

9 Bar Charts and Histograms

10 Scatter Diagrams for Correlation

11 Normal Distributions

12 Review and Practice - Data Handling

Designing Research 16 lessons

1 Quantitative vs Qualitative Methods

2 Experimental Method Introduction

3 Independent Groups Design

4 Repeated Measures Design

5 Matched Pairs Design

6 Laboratory Experiments

7 Field Experiments

8 Natural Experiments

9 Interviews

10 Questionnaires

11 Case Studies

12 Observation Studies

13 Categories of Behaviour

14 Interobserver Reliability

15 Strengths and Weaknesses of Methods

16 Review and Practice - Research Design

Ethical Considerations 4 lessons

1 BPS Guidelines Introduction

2 Ethical Issues in Research

3 Dealing with Ethical Issues

4 Review and Practice - Ethics

Formulation of Hypotheses 4 lessons

1 Null Hypothesis

2 Alternative Hypothesis

3 Writing Testable Hypotheses

4 Review and Practice - Hypotheses

Planning and Conducting Research 4 lessons

1 Planning Research Considerations

2 Reliability in Research

3 Validity in Research

4 Review and Practice - Planning Research

Research Procedures 7 lessons

1 Standardised Procedures

2 Instructions to Participants

3 Randomisation

4 Allocation to Conditions

5 Counterbalancing

6 Controlling Extraneous Variables

7 Review and Practice - Procedures

Sampling Methods 8 lessons

1 Target Populations and Samples

2 Random Sampling

3 Opportunity Sampling

4 Systematic Sampling

5 Stratified Sampling

6 Strengths and Weaknesses of Sampling

7 Principles of Scientific Sampling

8 Review and Practice - Sampling

Types of Variables 4 lessons

1 Independent Variables

2 Dependent Variables

3 Extraneous Variables

4 Review and Practice - Variables

Social Context and Behaviour - Brain and Neuropsychology 23 lessons

Brain Structure and Function 8 lessons

1 Frontal Lobe

2 Temporal Lobe

3 Parietal Lobe

4 Occipital Lobe

5 Cerebellum

6 Localisation of Function

7 Motor and Sensory Areas

8 Penfield Study of Interpretive Cortex

Nervous System Structure and Function 5 lessons

1 Central and Peripheral Nervous System

2 Somatic and Autonomic Systems

3 Fight or Flight Response

4 James-Lange Theory of Emotion

5 Review and Practice - Nervous System

Neuron Structure and Function 10 lessons

1 Sensory Neurons

2 Relay Neurons

3 Motor Neurons

4 Synaptic Transmission

5 Neurotransmitter Release

6 Neurotransmitter Reuptake

7 Excitation and Inhibition

8 Hebb Theory of Learning

9 Neuronal Growth

10 Review and Practice - Neurons

Social Context and Behaviour - Language, Thought and Communication 39 lessons

Explanations of Non-verbal Behaviour 8 lessons

1 Darwin Evolutionary Theory

2 Non-verbal Behaviour as Adaptive

3 Evidence for Innate Behaviour

4 Behaviour in Neonates

5 Behaviour in Sensory Deprived

6 Evidence for Learned Behaviour

7 Yuki Study of Emoticons

8 Review and Practice - Non-verbal Explanations

Human vs Animal Communication 10 lessons

1 Functions of Animal Communication

2 Survival Communication

3 Reproduction Communication

4 Territory Communication

5 Food Communication

6 Von Frisch Bee Study

7 Human Communication Properties

8 Planning Future Events

9 Discussing Abstract Concepts

10 Review and Practice - Communication Differences

Language and Thought Relationship 7 lessons

1 Piaget Theory - Language Depends on Thought

2 Sapir-Whorf Hypothesis

3 Thinking Depends on Language

4 Cultural Variations in Recall

5 Recognition of Colours

6 Native American Culture Examples

7 Review and Practice - Language and Thought

Non-verbal Communication 14 lessons

1 Definitions of Non-verbal Communication

2 Functions of Eye Contact

3 Regulating Conversation Flow

4 Signalling Attraction

5 Expressing Emotion

6 Body Language

7 Open and Closed Posture

8 Postural Echo

9 Touch Communication

10 Personal Space

11 Cultural Differences in Space

12 Status and Personal Space

13 Gender Differences in Space

14 Review and Practice - Non-verbal Communication

Social Context and Behaviour - Social Influence 36 lessons

Conformity 10 lessons

1 What is Conformity?

2 Social Factors in Conformity

3 Group Size Effects

4 Anonymity Effects

5 Task Difficulty Effects

6 Dispositional Factors in Conformity

7 Personality and Conformity

8 Expertise and Conformity

9 Asch Study of Conformity

10 Review and Practice - Conformity

Crowd and Collective Behaviour 8 lessons

1 Prosocial Behaviour in Crowds

2 Antisocial Behaviour in Crowds

3 Social Loafing

4 Deindividuation

5 Culture and Collective Behaviour

6 Personality and Collective Behaviour

7 Morality and Collective Behaviour

8 Review and Practice - Collective Behaviour

Obedience 9 lessons

1 What is Obedience?

2 Milgram Agency Theory

3 Agency in Obedience

4 Authority and Obedience

5 Culture and Obedience

6 Proximity and Obedience

7 Dispositional Factors in Obedience

8 Adorno Authoritarian Personality

9 Review and Practice - Obedience

Prosocial Behaviour 9 lessons

1 Bystander Behaviour Introduction

2 Social Factors in Helping

3 Presence of Others

4 Cost of Helping

5 Dispositional Factors in Helping

6 Similarity to Victim

7 Expertise and Helping

8 Piliavin Subway Study

9 Review and Practice - Prosocial Behaviour

Frequently Asked Questions

What is BrainyLemons?

BrainyLemons is an online learning platform that provides comprehensive GCSE and iGCSE courses designed for home study. We offer expert-created content, virtual tutoring support, and flexible learning schedules to help students achieve their academic goals from anywhere in the world.

How do I know if home learning is right for me?

Home learning with BrainyLemons is perfect if you're:

Self-motivated and disciplined
Prefer flexible scheduling
Need to work around other commitments
Want personalised pacing

Our 30-minute lesson format makes it easy to fit studying into your daily routine, whether you're homeschooled, supplementing traditional education, or retaking subjects.

What age groups do you cater to?

Our courses are designed for students typically aged 14-18 taking GCSEs and iGCSEs. However, we welcome adult learners and mature students who want to gain qualifications or improve their knowledge in specific subjects.

Which exam boards do you cover?

We offer courses aligned with major exam boards including:

AQA
Cambridge (iGCSE)
Pearson Edexcel
OCR
WJEC

Each course clearly states which exam board it follows, so you can choose the right one for your needs.

How many subjects can I study at once?

You can enroll in as many subjects as you feel comfortable managing. Most students take 5-9 subjects, but this depends on your goals, available study time, and other commitments. We recommend starting with 3-4 subjects if you're new to home learning.

How long does each course take to complete?

Course duration varies by subject, typically ranging from 100-200 hours of study time. With our flexible approach, you can:

Intensive study: Complete in 6 months (4-5 hours per week)
Standard pace: Complete in 12 months (2-3 hours per week)
Extended study: Spread over 18-24 months for lighter commitment

Are your courses up to date with the latest syllabus?

Yes! All our courses are regularly updated to reflect the most current exam board specifications. We clearly indicate which exam year each course is designed for (e.g., 2026 specifications).

What does a typical lesson look like?

Each lesson is designed to take approximately 30 minutes and includes:

Clear learning objectives
Engaging video content or interactive materials
Written explanations and examples
Practice questions
Knowledge check quizzes
Progress tracking

Can I learn at my own pace?

Absolutely! One of our key advantages is flexible, self-paced learning. You can study when it suits you, repeat lessons as needed, and accelerate through topics you find easier. Our bespoke study timetable feature helps you plan your learning journey.

What if I get stuck on a topic?

We provide multiple support options:

24/7 AI advisors for instant help
Virtual tutors specializing in each subject
Detailed explanations and worked examples
Interactive quizzes to test understanding
Progress reports highlighting areas needing attention

Do you provide practice papers and exam preparation?

Yes! Each course includes extensive revision materials, practice questions, and exam-style assessments. Our progress tracking system identifies your strengths and areas for improvement, helping you focus your revision effectively.

What equipment do I need?

You only need:

A computer, tablet, or smartphone with internet access
A modern web browser (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Edge)
Basic writing materials for note-taking
Optional: Printer for worksheets and practice papers

Can I access courses offline?

While our platform is primarily online to ensure you have the latest content and features, you can download certain materials like worksheets and revision guides for offline study.

Do you arrange exams for students?

No, you are responsible for booking and paying for your own exams. Exam fees are not included in course subscriptions. However, we provide guidance on finding local exam centres and understanding the booking process.

How do I find an exam centre?

We recommend:

Contacting local schools, colleges, or sixth forms
Searching online exam centre directories
Contacting the exam board directly
Considering private exam centres

We provide a helpful guide on our website with step-by-step instructions for finding and booking exam centres.

When should I book my exams?

Most exam boards require registration 4-6 months before the exam date. We recommend researching exam centres and booking as early as possible, especially for less common subjects or if you live in a remote area.

What grades do students typically achieve?

Our students have a 97% success rate, with many achieving grades 7-9 (A*-A equivalent). Success depends on consistent study, engagement with materials, and effective exam preparation.

How much do courses cost?

Individual courses start from £49.99-£50 per subject. We also offer bundle discounts for multiple subjects and payment plan options to make learning more affordable.

Do you offer discounts?

Yes! We provide:

Multi-subject bundle discounts
Early bird pricing for advance bookings
Price match promise against competitors
Special offers for newsletter subscribers
Family discounts for siblings

What's included in the course fee?

Your course fee includes:

12 months access to all course materials
260+ lessons per subject (varies by course)
Virtual tutor support
AI advisor access (24/7)
Progress tracking and reporting
Interactive quizzes and assessments
Revision materials and practice papers

What's NOT included?

Course fees do not include:

Exam registration fees
Exam centre costs
Physical textbooks (though digital resources are provided)
Individual face-to-face tutoring

What support do parents receive?

Parents get:

Detailed progress reports showing strengths and areas needing support
Study guide resources to monitor upcoming lessons
Complete visibility of their child's learning journey
Safety assurance with our fully moderated, child-friendly platform
Flexible scheduling options to fit family routines

How do you ensure student safety online?

We maintain a fully moderated, child-friendly platform with:

Secure login systems
Monitored virtual tutor interactions
Age-appropriate content
Privacy protection measures
Clear reporting mechanisms for any concerns

What if I'm not satisfied with my course?

We're confident in our course quality, but if you're not satisfied within the first 14 days, we offer a full refund. After this period, we'll work with you to address any specific concerns and ensure you get the most from your learning experience.

How does online learning compare to classroom teaching?

Online learning with BrainyLemons offers:

Flexibility: Study when and where it suits you
Personalisation: Learn at your own pace
Accessibility: 24/7 access to materials and support
Focused attention: No classroom distractions
Comprehensive resources: Everything you need in one place

However, it requires more self-discipline and motivation than traditional classroom learning.

Will universities and employers accept my qualifications?

Yes! GCSEs and iGCSEs obtained through independent study are identical to those achieved in traditional schools. What matters is your exam results, not how you prepared for them. Our courses prepare you for the same official exams as school students.

How do I stay motivated when studying alone?

We help maintain motivation through:

Clear progress tracking and celebration of achievements
Interactive quizzes and games that make learning fun
Regular check-ins with virtual tutors
Flexible scheduling that prevents burnout
Community features to connect with other learners

How can I contact support?

Email: support@brainylemons.com
Live Chat: Available on our website during business hours
Help Centre: Comprehensive guides and tutorials
Community Forum: Connect with other students and get peer support

What makes BrainyLemons different from other online learning platforms?

Expert-created content aligned with official exam specifications
30-minute lesson format perfect for busy schedules
24/7 AI support plus specialised virtual tutors
97% success rate with proven results
Comprehensive progress tracking for students and parents
Affordable pricing with flexible payment options
12 months access giving you plenty of time to complete courses

Got questions? Contact us!

Psychology

Course fee: £49.99

Start Learning Aqa GCSE Psychology Today!

Everything You Need to Pass

Broken into simple 30 minute lessons

Bespoke Study Timetable

Test your knowledge

Track Your Progress

AI learning

Course Content

Which lessons are in the GCSE Psychology 2026 course?

For Parents: Supporting Your Child's GCSE Journey

Key benefits for parents:

Frequently Asked Questions

Brainy Lemons helps you learn with AI

Popular Courses

GCSE Sociology

iGCSE Environmental Management

iGCSE Travel & Tourism

iGCSE Geography

iGCSE Biology