TSR Wiki > Study Help > Exams and Qualifications > AEA > Psychology AEA
The AEA in Psychology is based on the same content as the A-level, as outlined by the QCA guidelines for the AEA. It is administered by AQA, with entry code 6881. It was introduced in 2005, along with AEAs in Critical Thinking and Business Studies. Like all AEAs, it is designed to be open to students studying A-level Psychology with any exam board, syllabus or exam option, whether it is AQA A, AQA B, OCR, or Edexcel.
The AEA consists of a single three-hour paper, worth 90 marks and divided into three equally weighted sections, A, B, and C. Section A consists of fairly short questions and mini-essays on "Theoretical Issues and Debates", based on some passages that are provided; this all counts for 30 marks. It centres on interpretation, analysis and evaluation. Section B is a 30-mark question on "Methodology", usually applying several investigational techniques to particular aspects of a problem. Fairly in-depth knowledge of these techniques is required. Section C includes three 30-mark essay questions on "Approaches and Applications"; some have short prompts, others are based on a text, and some are unaccompanied, bald questions. One answer is required from Section C, which should encompass a range of psychological knowledge and applies it to the question.
As with almost all other AEAs, the last examination for this qualification is in June 2009, after which it will be withdrawn.
