School Programmes, Syllabi & Academic Information.

ARTS PRODUCTION & PERFOMANCE

ARTS PRODUCTION & PERFOMANCE  (81 hours)

This course is intended for students wishing to pursue their studies in the fields of Photography, Digital Media, and Film & TV Studies. It further caters for students in Drama, Performing Arts, Music and Dance. Students are closely guided and supervised in order to be able to complete their portfolios in their relevant disciplines.

Course content:

  • Basic  Sketch Drills (the importance of drawing, improving the basic idea, from creative thought to image creation)
  • Basic Composition Theory (Simplify the scene, Avoid the middle, Space to move, Creative with colours, Breaking the rules)
  • Story Board (Story board preparation based on sketches, collage etc)
  • Inspiration Sources (How to find inspiration sources) Inspiration – Story board  – final project
  • Photography Basics (Image, composition, scenario)
  • Photography Technical Guides (How to use photography equipment)
  • Photoshop (From basics to advanced)
  • Image Manipulation (Process to transform an image to the desired one)
  • Stop Motion (make stories from still images)
  • Video Basics (Equipment analysis)
  • Video Editing (Various techniques, transformations, blue box, sound, voice)
  • Film Making (Composition, movement, scenario, story)
  • Software Guides (Adobe premiere, Sony Vegas, Power Director)
  • History of Art (Renaissance, impressionism, modern art, expressionism)
  • History of Art Projects (Presentations in various history of art themes)
  • Portfolio Preparation (Artwork portfolio contents according to chosen courses)

Resources and Booklist Suggestions

Alan Parsons, Liz Macfarlane, Louise Arnould, Cambridge International AS & A Level Art & Design Student’s Book, Collins, London, 2018

David Dandner, Sheena Calvert and Anoki Casey, A Foundation Course for Graphic Designers Working in Print, Moving Image and Digital Media, Thames & Hudson, London, 2010

H.W. Janson and Anthony F. Janson, A basic History of Art, Fourth Edition, Prentice Hall – Abrams, New York, 1992

 

PSYCHOLOGY

PSYCHOLOGY (81 hours)

The course aims to enlighten students with the subject matter typical of 1st year British University Psychology Courses. It is aimed towards students of a wide range of academic orientations as it is an Introductory Course while simultaneously unfolding the subject matter to Future Psychologists.

Analysis of the Course

  • Introduction to the discipline of Psychology. Outline & discussion of Perspectives in Psychology.
  • Review of Perspectives of Psychology with examples of clinical behavior. Philos issues – determinism Free will. Case studies of abnormal behavior. Theories of Criminality on Human Nature definition of Criminal behavior. Dilemmas of depicting – categorizing Criminal behavior.
  • Measurement of Crime Hypothesis Creation & testing. The Exceptional Method in Psychology. Nature Purpose of Measurement in Psychology (in Assessment & therapy). Modes of Assessment. Ethical Issues in Psychology – in Milgrams Experiments.
  • Neurobiological Processes of Behavior.
  • Psychological Development. Nature versus Nurture dilemma. Personality. Social development
  • Nature of Consciousness Nature of Unconscious. Nature & function of Sleep. Sleep disorders.
  • Nature & function of Psychoactive Drugs (depressants , etc.) Nature & problems of addiction & dependency. The operation of Psychoactive drugs on Brain neurotransmitters. Alternative forms of psychology in dealing with Addiction, hypnosis, Meditation.
  • Cultural – Social factors involved. Problem Solving.
  • Basic Motives Motivation types of brain functions in reaction to Hedonism. Nature of Imprinting. Drug Addiction. Homeostasis.
  • Homeostatic processes e.g. Hunger, thirst, Obesity & Anorexia, Bulimia. Nature of – Factors reading to treatment aims. Diet & weight Control.
  • Nature of Emotion & Arousal. Discussion of Lie detectors. Expression of emotion – brain localization. Attention & Learning.
  • Nature of Aggression in ordinary population and in criminal population – studies relating to this. Origins of Criminal Behavior. – Biological – Learning Social Factors – Studies – Theories. The Psychopath. Issues. Problems. The Mentally ill offender. Issues. Problems. The Correctional System (Prison, e.t.c.)
  • Individual differences in Human Beings Assessment techniques – what is assessed? Assessment of Personality? Assessment techniques of Personality. Explanations of data – nature – nurture issues. Heredity – nature of – issues concerning.
  • Interactions influencing Personality Discussion of Personality types involved in Criminal Activities.
  • Personality Theories. Psychoanalytic Approach – Structure – dynamics – development shortcomings of.
  • Phenomenological Approach – nature – processes – development – shortcomings. Cognitive – Behavioral Perspective in Personality – nature – processes – issues in measurements e.t.c.
  • Nature & characteristics of Stressful Events Nature of Stress as a positive & Negative phenomenon. Psychological reactions to stress e.g. agoraphobic client – case study. Study of obsession – Compulsion Problems
  • Stress on Health Personality as a Mediator of Stress. Coping skills. Managing Stress Discussion of a assessment treatment Plan of Stress Symptoms.
  • Abnormal Psychology Defining abnormal behavior. Classifying abnormal behaviour Definition of Normality. Consideration of Anxiety disorders – types – processes e.t.c. treatment aims – methods.
  • Discussion of Mood Disorders Schizophrenia. Personality disorders
  • Nature of Mental Health. Enhancing Mental Health. Preventative Measures. Nature of diagnostic – short – term & long – term Services available in Greece. When to seek help.
  • Introduction to Social Psychology. Theories of Social Behavior. Concept of Attitudes – Functions of Nature of Attraction – culture – bound. (Implications for bonding – marriage e.t.c.)
  • Social interaction & Influence. Nature of deindividuation – Social facilitation. Conformity – authority – rebellion – internalization. Compliance Group decision Making – Processes dilemmas & Issues
  • History of Psychology. Research Methods in Psychology

Resources and booklist suggestions:

1.        Atkinson, R. Introduction to Psychology 1996 (main text). Harcourt Brace Publishers.

2.        Gross, Richard Psychology. The Science of Mind and Behavior

3.        Meadows, Sara The child as a thinker; The Development and Acquisition of Cognition in Childhood.

4.        Sternberg, R. J. Intellectual Development

5.        Freud, S. The Interpretation of Dreams

6.        Papalia, D. E. Human development

7.        Wenar Developmental Psychology from Infancy through Adolescence

8.        Valle, Ronald Existential – phenomenological Perspectives in Psychology

9.        Bartol, Curt Criminal Behavior ; A Psychosocial Approach 4th Ed. 1995

10.     Taylor, S.E. Health Psychology

11.     Sunberg, Norman Introduction to Clinical Psychology: Perspectives, Issues and Contributions to Human Service

HISTORY & POLITICS

HISTORY & POLITICS (81 hours)

Course Description

This module balances a strong grounding in the two component subjects (History and Politics) with the chance to explore the ways in which historical and political understanding together illuminate the modern world.

Aim of the course

This module aims to provide students with an understanding of history, politics and international relations. It not only enables students to set contemporary political problems in their historical perspective, but also equips them to approach the study of the past with the conceptual rigour derived from political science. This module provides students with a critical understanding of modern world history, including how historical developments have shaped present-day politics, economics and societies. It is designed to promote awareness of the wider importance and value of the skills of historical study. It is, also, designed to develop intellectual skills of acquisition, understanding, analysis and evaluation of historical evidence and enhance awareness and deepen understanding of historical and theoretical debate.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the students will:­

  • Show deep knowledge and understanding of key aspects of global history
  • Demonstrate critical awareness of the differences and similarities between different world regions of modern world history and of the interaction between and inter-dependence of different world regions
  • Get a thorough knowledge and deep understanding of theoretical concepts appropriate to the study of modern world history as well as politics
  • Conceptualise and prepare arguments based on the analysis of different accounts of global history as they relate to international politics
  • Develop specific research skills in areas of international politics and world history

Syllabus

  • The causes of the First World War
  • Britain and the First World War:1914–1918
  • The peace treaties after the First World War
  • Russia and the USSR 1905-1941
  • The USA 1919-1941
  • The League of Nations
  • Causes of the Second World War
  • The beginnings of the Cold War: 1945-1949
  • The Cold War 1950-1975
  • Eastern Europe and the Cold War 1948-1989
  • Political Principles arising from historical facts

Resources and booklist suggestions:

Walsh Ben, 2009, Modern World History, 3rd edition, Hodder Education

CHEMISTRY

CHEMISTRY (81 hours)

Course Description

Chemistry is the study of the substances of which matter is composed, the investigation of their properties and reactions and the use of such reactions to form new substances.

This course introduces students to chemistry and to its general concepts. Its aim is to impart understanding of how scientific knowledge is acquired and communicated, surveying the history of Chemistry from ancient years to the present time with its momentous achievements. The course syllabus focuses on fundamental chemistry concepts and skills, the nature of materials, including natural and synthetic substances, and the contemporary theories that underpin our understanding of chemistry. Through the principles of Chemistry, students will gain solid understanding of everyday life, nature and technology, and the impact of the daily applications of Chemistry on the well-being of modern human beings.

Aim of the Course 

The course will focus on the basic concepts of General Chemistry:

  1. MATTER AND MEASUREMENT
  2. ATOMS, MOLECULES, AND IONS
  • PERIODIC TABLE
  1. STOICHIOMETRY
  2. ELECTRONIC STRUCTURE OF ATOMS
  3. BASIC CONCEPTS OF CHEMICAL BONDING
  • CHEMICAL KINETICS & EQUILIBRIUM
  • THE CHEMISTRY OF LIFE: ORGANIC AND BIOLOGICAL CHEMISTRY 

Learning Outcomes  

A student completing this course will be able to: 

  • use dimensional analysis to solve problems
  • understand the fundamental properties of atoms, molecules, and the various states of matter with an emphasis on the particulate nature of matter
  • understand the mole concept and use it perform calculations relating quantities of substances to each other in reactions
  • understand the fundamentals of acid/base reactions, redox reactions, combustion reactions, and precipitation reactions
  • explain the relationship among heat, work, internal energy and enthalpy changes to solve problems involving thermochemical concepts
  • understand the fundamental atomic structure and simple quantum mechanical treatments of atoms
  • explain the concept of quantisation as applied to modern atomic theory
  • understand the periodic properties of the elements
  • determine chemical connections between atoms using different bonding theories and determine the three dimensional shape of a substance
  • understand the basic concepts of organic chemistry, the chemistry of life and biomolecules
  • Effectively read, write, speak and understand scientific material

Syllabus

Matter & Measurement

Atoms, molecules, ions, solutions, relative atomic masses, properties of matter, dimensional analysis

Basics of chemical nomenclature

Inorganic compounds and Organic compounds

Chemical equations

Writing equations and prediction of reaction types, balancing equations, molar interpretation of the balanced equation, the mole ratio, mole-mole, mole-gram, gram-gram conversions, examples of equations involving aqueous solutions and gases, precipitates, oxidation number, redox and ionic equations.

Atomic structure

Evidence for atomic structure, subatomic particles, isotopes, mass numbers.

Electronic structure

Evidence for the electronic structure of atoms, shells, sub-shells, electrons and orbitals, predicting electronic structures, ionisation energies, trends across the periodic table, s block metals and their compounds, p block elements and their compounds, transition metals and their compounds.

Acids and bases

Bronsted-Lowry acids and bases, conjugate pairs, amphoterism, polyprotic acids and bases, ionisation equilibrium of water, pH and pKa definitions

The electronic theory and chemical bonding

Ionic bonding, covalent bonding (sharing electrons), determining the shapes of some simple molecules.

Intermolecular forces

Polarity and bonding, Van der Waals’ forces, hydrogen bonding.

Energy changes and bonding

Ideas and language of thermochemistry, standard heats of formation and combustion, predicting whether reactions will occur, uses of bond energies, energy sources for the future.

Equilibria

Equilibria in physical and chemical processes, the equilibrium of a solute between two immiscible solvents, partition coefficient, solvent extraction, equilibrium law and constant, factors affecting equilibria, ionic and heterogeneous equilibria, acid base indicators, pH changes during titration.

Entropy and free energy

Entropy changes and free energy changes.

Reaction rates

Factors affecting the rate of a reaction, catalysis, use of reaction rate studies.

Basics of Organic Chemistry

Isomerism, functional groups, basic reaction mechanisms in organic chemistry, organic nomenclature. Nomenclature, properties and reactivity of: alkanes, alkenes, alkynes, aromatic hydrocarbons; halogenoalkanes and halogenoarenes; alcohols, phenols and ethers; aldehydes and ketones; amines; carboxylic acids and their derivatives – halogenoacids, aminoacids, hydroxyacids; acid halogenides, esters, amides, anhydrides; carbonic acid derivatives.

Biochemistry

Saccharides: structure – linear and cyclic formulae, monosaccharides, disaccharides, polysaccharides, importance in biochemistry. Lipids: classification, composition, properties, importance in biochemistry. Proteins: basic amino acids (formulae), peptide bonds, composition and function of proteins. Nucleic acids: composition, nucleosides, nucleotides, base pairing, structure and function. Enzymes: characteristics, classification, digestive enzymes. Basic metabolic pathway of saccharides, triacylglycerols and proteins. Energy production.

Resources and booklist suggestions:

  1. Chemistry, the Central Science, Theodore L. Brown et al., 12th edition, 2012
  2. General Chemistry, Ebbin & Gabbon, 9th edition, 2007
  3. General Chemistry – the essential concepts, Chang & Overby, 6th edition, 2011

BIOLOGY

BIOLOGY (81 hours)

Course Description

Biology is known as the study of living organisms, the Science of Life. The aim of this course is to help students understand and appreciate the diversity of life, the remarkable adaptations of organisms to the environment and their evolutionary and ecological relationships. Through this course, students will have the opportunity to explore and understand the meaning of the basic unit of life, the cell, learn about the structures and processes shared by all living things and gain insight into the molecular functions that make all living organisms, including humans, unique. Biological research contributes to modern society by making our lives healthier and safer. It is very important to underline the basic interconnectedness and the fundamental similarities of all living organisms, two aspects of Biology that have great impact on the daily lives of all of us.

Aim of the Course

The course will focus on the major concepts of biology:

  1. ORGANISATION OF LIFE
  2. ENERGY OF LIFE

III. GENETICS

  1. REPRODUCTION
  2. NUTRITION
  3. ECOLOGY

VII. COORDINATION & CONTROL

VIII. TRANSPORT & EXCHANGE

Learning Outcomes

A student completing this course will be able to:

  • Demonstrate sound understanding of the core concepts of biology, including organisation of life, cell biology, molecular biology, genetics and human physiology.
  • Gain good understanding of general biological facts and principles.
  • Use the scientific method and reasoning to describe, explain and understand biological systems.
  • Respond to everyday dilemmas and modern day debates regarding biological, bioethical and health issues, using scientifically acquired knowledge.
  • Effectively read, write, speak and understand scientific material.

Syllabus

Organisation of life

  • The fundamental similarities of all living things
  • The evolution of life on the planet Earth
  • The diversity of life and the classification of the organisms (taxonomy)
  • Molecular and cellular levels of organisation
  • Tissue organisation
  • Chemistry needed in Biology (atomic organisation)

Molecular organisation

  • Covalent bonds, Ionic bonding, Hydrogen bonds.
  • Molecular organization. Inorganic ions.
  • Carbohydrates: Monosaccharides, Disaccharides, Polysaccharides.
  • Lipids: Fatty acids, triaglycerols, phospholipids, functions of lipids, steroids.
  • Proteins: Amino acids.
  • Nucleic acids: DNA, RNA and other functional derivatives.

Enzymes

  • Structure and function, mechanism of action, properties.
  • Enzyme cofactors, control of metabolic pathways.

Cellular organisation

  • Prokaryotic cells: structure.
  • Eukaryotic cells: structural differences between plant – animal cells.
  • Cell structure: Cell membrane, Nucleus, Chloroplast, Mitochondrion, Endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, Ribosomes, Lysosomes, Vacuoles, Peroxisomes, Cytoskeleton (Microtubules, Microfilaments, Centrosomes), Cilia, Flagella, Microvilli, Storage granules, Cell wall.
  • Movement in and out of cells. Diffusion, Osmosis, Active transport, Phagocytosis, Pinocytosis.

DNA and the genetic code

  • The nucleus contains the hereditary material
  • The Nature of the genetic material, experiments of Griffith, Avery, McCarty and MacLeod, etc.
  • Mutagens, constancy of DNA within a cell.
  • The Central Dogma of Biology.

Molecular Biology

  • DNA replication.
  • The genetic code.
  • Protein synthesis (transcription – translation).
  • Genetic engineering.

Cell division

  • Chromosome structure, number, cell cycle.
  • Mitosis – Meiosis, significance, comparison.

Heredity and Genetics

  • Monohybrid inheritance – 1stLaw of Mendel
  • Dihybrid inheritance – 2ndLaw of Mendel. Genes, alleles, representing genetic crosses, test cross.
  • Sex determination, linkage, sex linkage.
  • Allelic interaction, Gene interaction.

Genetic Variation

  • Origins of Variation. Mutations – chromosome changes.
  • Causes of mutation. Genetic screening and counselling.

Reproduction 

  • Asexual reproduction, sexual reproduction.
  • Gametogenesis in mammals
  • The Reproductive System
  • The menstrual cycle. Female and male sex hormones.

Energy and Organisms 

  • Laws of Thermodynamics. Autotrophic nutrition (photosynthesis)
  • Leaf adaptations for obtaining light, liquids, gasses, Photosynthetic pigments.
  • Mechanism of photosynthesis (light dependent – light independent stages).
  • Factors affecting the rate of photosynthesis – Principle of limiting factors. 

Cellular respiration

  • ATP – importance – uses. Glycolysis – Krebs cycle.
  • Anaerobic respiration.
  • Comparison of energy yield between aerobic – anaerobic respiration. Alternative respiratory substrates.

Energy and the ecosystem 

  • Energy flow, food chains, food webs.
  • Ecological pyramids.
  • Cycling of nutrients C, N, H2O

Transport in Animals

  • Blood structure and functions, respiratory pigments.
  • Blood clotting.
  • Defence against disease.
  • The immune System – Antibodies – AIDS
  • Blood groups.
  • The Circulatory System.

Transport in Plants

  • Water
  • Transpiration
  • Simple plant tissues – stomata 

Homeostasis

  • Principles
  • Temperature control

Muscular Movement and Support

  • Muscle tissue
  • The skeleton – structure of bones
  • Muscle structure and contraction
  • The Musculoskeletal System

Heterotrophic Nutrition

  • Holozoic nutrition. Diet, principles of digestion – digestive enzymes
  • Digestion in humans (mouth, stomach, small intestine, large intestine).
  • The Digestive System

Response and coordination in animals

  • Nerve tissue
  • The nervous system (central, peripheral, autonomous)
  • Transmission of impulses, synapses, chemistry of neurotransmitters, sensory system
  • Principles of endocrine control – chemistry of hormones
  • Mechanism of hormone action. Endocrine glands (hypothalamus, thyroid, adrenal, pancreas).

Resources and booklist suggestions:

  1. Biology, Raven, Johnson, Mason, Losos, Singer, 11th edition, 2017
  2. Campbell Biology, Reece, Urry, Cain, Wasserman, Minorsky, Jackson, 10th edition, 2014

Concepts of Biology, Fowler, Roush, Wise, 1st edition, 2013

RESEARCH PROJECT & PRESENTATION

RESEARCH PROJECT & PRESENTATION (81 hours)

Course Description

The aim of the course is to give students an opportunity to perform a research project under supervision. Specifically, the course aims at introducing them to the basic concepts used in research and to scientific social research methods.

Students are introduced to quantitative and qualitative methods for conducting meaningful inquiry and research.

In addition, students gain an overview of research content and design, methodology and technique, format and presentation, data management and analysis informed by commonly used in research projects.

Finally, students are equipped with filmmaking and video editing skills.

 

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the course, students are able to demonstrate the following:

 

– Differentiate and integrate available software for literature organization.

– Operate and employ modern software for text and multimedia communication.

– Compose and design successful presentations.- Interpret and illustrate the use of Internet resources and appropriate software for producing on-line questionnaires, collecting responses and analyzing collected data

 

Syllabus

.
Regarding knowledge and understanding, students learn to:

·         apply experimental methods to solve a given scientific task

·         collect data for evaluation and statistical treatment

·         use relevant scientific literature

·         construct the online version of the standard questions

·         gather, perform critical analysis and interpret the results

·         prepare presentation

 

Regarding film-making and video editing skills, students learn to:

·         to be thorough and pay attention to detail.

·         knowledge of media production and communication.

·         the ability to work well with others.

·         knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software.

·         to be flexible and open to change.

·         the ability to use your initiative

 

Regarding research methods skills, students learn to:

·         develop a research framework and objectives

·         show independence, critical and creative thinking

·         document results by creating a research report presentation

·         present and discuss the research results

 

Regarding values and attitudes, students learn to:

·           show a professional attitude regarding time planning and collaboration

·           carry out the project work in an ethical manner

·           reflect upon and discuss the relevance of the work both in written and oral form

Resources and booklist suggestions:

1.       Cohen, L. Lawrence, M., & Morrison, K. (2005). Research Methods in Education (5th edition). Oxford: Oxford University Press.

2.       Coughlan M., Cronin P. and Ryan F. (2007). Step-by-step guide to critiquing research. Part 1: quantitative research. British journal of Nursing 16 (11).

3.       Denscombes, M. (2010). The Good Research Guide: For small-scale social research projects. Maiden-Read: Open University Press

4.      Kumar, R. (2011). Research Methodology: a step-by-step guide for beginners (3rd edition). London, UK: TJ International Ltd, Padstow, Corwall.

5.      Leedy, P. D. (1980). Practical Research: Planning and design. Washington: Mc Millan Publishing Co., Inc.

6.      Singh, Y. K. (2006). Fundamental of Research Methodology and Statistics. New Delhi. New International (P) Limited, Publishers.

7.      Wallinman, N. (2006). Your Research Project: A step-by-step guide for the first-time researcher. London: Sage Publications

SOCIOLOGY

SOCIOLOGY (81 hours)

Course Description: This course is available to students coming from a variety of academic orientations. Its subject matter examines the role of the individual in society and the impact of society on the individual. A range of social phenomena in the modern world are analysed in the context of exploring the relationship between individuals and the society in which they live. It is a highly recommended elective course for students wishing to enter the teaching profession or for those who will work primarily with people.

Aim of the course:

  1. To encourage students to debate the development of human identity within a sociological framework
  2. To introduce students to the analysis of modern sociological terms
  3. To help students understand theoretical approaches to the study of sociology

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of the course, students will be able to:

  1. Analyse the relationship between the individual and society
  2. Analyse the influence of society on the development of individual identity
  3. Analyse the course of life in sociological terms
  4. Undertake sociological analyses of different sociological phenomena in the modern world

Course Syllabus

Definition of Sociology

  • Overview of formal definitions and discussion of various sociological phenomena
  • Discussing the term Sociological Imagination
  • Studying people and society
  • Analysing theories and perspectives of sociology: functionalism, interactionism and conflict theories, among others
  • Explaining the role of sociology

Globalisation and Social change

  • Critical analysis of early societies
  • The transformation of society and the transition from modern and industrialised to postmodern and post-industrialised societies
  • Discussion of developed and developing countries. Newly industrialised countries
  • Critical analysis of elements of globalisation, information technology, transnational corporations and political globalisation
  • Examination of the consequences of globalisation

Social Interaction and Social Life 

  • Discussion of cyber bullying
  • Introduction to the concept of civil inattention and social interaction
  • Examination of the importance of non-verbal communication in social interaction
  • Embodiment and identities
  • Exploration of the different types of personal space
  • Discussion of the rules of social interaction and online interaction

The Life Course

  • The importance of socialisation in the development of individual identity
  • Examination of child development theories
  • Definitions of agents of socialisation
  • Learning about gender
  • Examination of the course of life
  • Analysis of different stages in the course of life: childhood, teenage years and youth, young adulthood, mature adulthood and later life
  • Discussion of the concept of ageing and analysis of the different forms of ageing
  • Introduction to the aspects that define ageing
  • Discussion of death in modern societies and the implications of assisted dying and euthanasia

Families and intimate relationships

  • The family as an institution and functions of family
  • Discussion of domestic violence and child abuse
  • Examination of different family structures
  • Marriage and divorce
  • Exploration of new partnerships and blended families
  • Discussion of the changing family pattern

Gender and Sexuality

  • Analysis of sex, gender and sexuality in society
  • Examination of the role of biology and learning in the development of sexual identity and changes in gender roles
  • Sexuality and religion and different forms of sexuality
  • Examination of gender inequality
  • Discussion of the feminist approach

Crime and Deviance

  • Introduction to different theories of crime and deviance
  • Patterns in crime in the UK and differences from those in Greece
  • Analysis of victims and perpetrators in terms of gender, age and class
  • Discussion of punishment and rehabilitation
  • Crime in global context, new patterns of crime, cybercrime

Education 

  • Examination of education and culture
  • Outline of the different perspectives on the role and purpose of education
  • Social division and education
  • Discussion of the relationship between gender and education as well as between ethnicity and education
  • Education and technology, new patterns of schooling and learning
  • Discussion of the future of education

Race and Ethnicity

  • Insights into the concepts of “race” and “ethnicity”
  • Critical analysis of prejudice and discrimination in the late 20th and early 21st centuries
  • Discussion of racism: old and new forms of racism, ethnocentrism
  • Examination of ethnic integration models
  • Discussion of migration in the global era; migration and the EU

Social class 

  • The concept of social class and its relevance in modern Britain and Greece
  • The relationship between social class and individual identity

Religion 

  • Definitions of religion
  • The position of religion in classical sociology
  • Analysis of the concept of secularisation
  • Trends in contemporary religion
  • Discussion of religion in Europe and the USA

The Mass Media

  • The digital revolution and the internet
  • Analysis of the different approaches to political economy
  • Audiences and different representations

Cities and Urban Life

  • Definitions of urbanisation
  • Analysis of different theories of urbanism, the Chicago School
  • Discussion of urbanisation in the developing world
  • The role of cities as active agents

Work and Economy

  • Introduction to economic sociology
  • Analysis of new concepts such as Taylorism and Fordism
  • Discussion on what work is and a survey of the hidden forms of work
  • Examination of the social significance of employment
  • Discussion of the increase in job insecurity

Resources and booklists suggestions:

  1. Abbot, P and Wallace, C (1997) An introduction to sociology 2nd
  2. Abercrombie, N (2004) Sociology, Cambridge: Polity
  3. Banton, M (1998) Racial Theories 2nd, Cambridge, Cambridge University press
  4. Bernades, J (1997) Family studies, New York, Routledge
  5. Bond, J & Coleman, P eds. (1990) Ageing in society, London, Sage
  6. Bruce, S ed. (1992) Religion and modernism
  7. Croall, H. (2011) Crime and Society in Britain London, Longman.
  8. Devine, F and Waters, M (eds) (2004) Social Inequalities in Comparative Perspective, Oxford: Blackwell
  9. Durkheim, E. (2002) Suicide: A Study in Sociology. London: Routledge.
  10. Erikson, E (1965) Childhood and Society 2nd London, Triad/Granada
  11. Giddens, A and Sutton, P.W (2018) Sociology 8th
  12. Lemert, C. (2011) Social Things: An Introduction to the Sociological Life, 5th ed. Lanham: Rowman and Littlefield.
  13. Miles, R (1989) Racism, London, Routledge
  14. Reid, I (1986) The Sociology of schools and education, London, Fontana
  15. Stones, R. (ed) (2008) Key Sociological Thinkers, 2nd edition. London: MacMillan

PHYSICS

PHYSICS (81 hours)

Course Description: Physics is the most fundamental of the experimental sciences, as it seeks to explain the universe itself from the very smallest particles—currently accepted as quarks, which may be truly fundamental—to the vast distances between galaxies. Classical physics, built upon the great pillars of Newtonian mechanics, electromagnetism and thermodynamics, went a long way in deepening our understanding of the universe. From Newtonian mechanics came the idea of predictability in which the universe is deterministic and knowable. This led to Laplace’s boast that by knowing the initial conditions—the position and velocity of every particle in the universe—he could, in principle, predict the future with absolute certainty. Maxwell’s theory of electromagnetism described the behaviour of electric charge and unified light and electricity, while thermodynamics described the relation between energy transferred due to temperature difference and work and described how all natural processes increase disorder in the universe.

Aim of the Course:

Through studying physics, students should become aware of how scientists work and communicate with each other. While the scientific method may take on a wide variety of forms, it is the emphasis on a practical approach through experimental work that characterises these subjects. The aims enable students, through the overarching theme of the nature of science, to:

  1. Appreciate scientific study and creativity within a global context through stimulating and challenging opportunities.
  2. Acquire a body of knowledge, methods and techniques that characterise science and technology.
  3. Apply and use a body of knowledge, methods and techniques that characterise science and technology.
  4. Develop an ability to analyse, evaluate and synthesise scientific information.
  5. Develop experimental and investigative scientific skills, including the use of current technologies.
  6. Develop and apply 21st-century communication skills in the study of science.

Learning Outcomes:

The assessment objectives for physics reflect those parts of the aims that will be formally assessed either internally or externally. These assessments will centre upon the nature of science. It is the intention of this course that students are able to fulfil the following assessment objectives:

  1. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of: a) facts, concepts and terminology, b) methodologies and techniques, and c) communicating scientific information.
  2. Apply: a) facts, concepts and terminology, b) methodologies and techniques, and c) methods of communicating scientific information.
  3. Formulate, analyse and evaluate: a) hypotheses, research questions and predictions, b) methodologies and techniques, c) primary and secondary data, and d) scientific explanations.
  4. Demonstrate the appropriate research, experimental, and personal skills necessary to carry out insightful and ethical investigations.

Syllabus 

It consists of three modules: Mechanics & Thermodynamics – Waves, Electricity & Magnetism – Nuclear Physics & topics from Modern Physics.

MECHANICS & THERMODYNAMICS

Physical phenomena, quantities and theories, SI units, scalar and vector quantities, vectors

Kinematics: Force, mass, velocity, acceleration, velocity-time graphs, displacement – time graphs, projectiles, rectilinear motion, circular motion.

Dynamics: Newton’s laws, momentum, work, power, kinetic and potential energy, energy conservation, momentum conservation, collisions.

Statics: Equilibrium of a point particle, friction, turning forces, equilibrium of rigid bodies, centre of mass of rigid bodies.

Further mechanics: Simple harmonic motion, gravitational fields, stress, strain, Young modulus.

o        Thermal Physics: Temperature and thermometers, gas laws, ideal gas equation, kinetic theory of ideal gases, Boltzman’s constant, density, pressure, difference between solids, liquids and gases, isothermal, isobaric and adiabatic gas changes, work done in various gas changes.

o        Energetics: Heat, specific heat capacities, latent heat, transfer of energy, conduction, convection radiation, internal energy, enthalpy, the laws of thermodynamics, the Carnot engine, the efficiency of an engine, entropy.

WAVES, ELECTRICITY & MAGNETISM

Introduction to Wave Physics: The simple pendulum revised, characteristics of waves, mechanical waves, electromagnetic waves, longitudinal and transverse waves

Electricity: Electric charge, Coulomb’s law, electric current, electric potential, electrical resistance, internal resistance of a power supply, Kirchhoff’s laws, electric fields, capacitors, sources, voltage – current, basic circuits with resistances and capacitors.

Magnetism and electromagnetism: Magnetic fields, electromagnetic induction, Faraday’s and Lenz’s laws, motion of a charged particle in a magnetic field, alternating current circuits and electromagnetic waves.

NUCLEAR PHYSICS & TOPICS FROM MODERN PHYSICS

Atomic and Nuclear Physics: The atom and the nucleus, atomic mass, nucleon number, proton number, isotopes, the periodic table, binding energy, radioactive decay, the alpha, beta and gamma radiations, Bohr’s theory, introduction to quantum mechanics, Pauli’s exclusion principle.

Introduction to the theory of special relativity, consequences of special relativity.

 Resources and booklist suggestions:

  1. Physics for Scientists and Engineers with Modern Physics, 4th edition, Serway, Saunders College Publishing (including the interactive CD SD-2000)
  2. College Physics, 4th ed., Serway and Faughn, Saunders College Publishing.
  3. Physics, P. Fullick, Heinemann Advanced Science, 1994.
  4. Physics for the IB Diploma (6th Ed.), K.A. Tsokos, Cambridge University Press
  5. IB Physics Course Book 2014 Edition, D. Homer & M. Bowen-Jones, Oxford University Press
  6. A-Level Physics, Nelkon and Parker

COMMUNICATION, MEDIA & POLITICS

COMMUNICATION, MEDIA & POLITICS (81 hours)

Course Description

This course seeks to provide an overview and instil understanding of the key concepts that define the relationship between Communication, Media & Politics . It includes a thorough exposition of the nature, the role and influence of communication and media within the international terrain in the modern world.

The course explores the ways in which commercialised news media organisations have been occupying an increasingly important role in the global flow of modern communications. The impact of the media and their influence on the international system has scarcely begun to be appreciated. Communication, society, culture, the economy and foreign affairs are all now inseparable from the information created and exchanged on an international basis. Mass communication and mass media are comparatively recent phenomena but set the conditions and delineate the boundaries within which politicians and statesmen have been increasingly forced to operate.

This course is available to students coming from a variety of backgrounds and academic orientations. It is a highly recommended elective course for students wishing to enter the world of Economics, Business, Legal and European and International Studies, and a compulsory course for those entering the area of Media and Communication Studies.

AIM:

The aim of the course is two-fold. It intends to provide solid understanding of the basic concepts of Communication and help students comprehend the codes of communication and the various meanings and definitions of interpersonal communication and social interaction. Moreover, it intends to provide a comprehensive overview of overarching structures such as culture, mass media and gender, and of their respective roles in shaping interpersonal interaction.

In contrast, the Media part of the course avails the opportunity for students to see how communication principles apply to and operate within the contemporary media system and its social, political and economic aspects. Teaching of the material is enhanced with pertinent videos and in-class discussions. Students are responsible for submitting an assignment on a relevant topic in which they are required to incorporate major concepts covered in class during the academic year.

LEARNING OUTCOMES:

Upon completion of this course, students will be expected to

  • comprehend and apply communication principles in personal, small group, and public situations
  • apply knowledge of nonverbal communication
  • demonstrate critical thinking competencies
  • adapt messages and behaviour to different communication contexts
  • employ appropriate listening and responding behaviour
  • demonstrate understanding and respect for cultural and social diversity
  • know the various meanings and definitions of interpersonal communication and social interaction
  • become familiar with overarching structures such as culture, mass media and gender, as well as with their role in shaping interpersonal interaction
  • become better-informed users of mass media and, if they study or work in mass media contexts, more alert and sensitive practitioners
  • understand the process of producing and distributing messages through mass communication
  • realise the profound role mass media play in society and how mass media industries have been changing during the past fifteen years
  • understand international communications and international politics since 1945
  • develop a critical attitude towards the impact of contemporary news media on international affairs
  • analyse the role of the media in the reporting of warfare
  • study information warfare and psychological operations
  • understand and critically evaluate modern trends in politics and communication
  • become well-versed in the ways that modern methods of communication are applied to politics
  • learn how to use appropriate tools of analysis to tackle issues of political and communicative character

SYLLABUS:

BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMMUNICATION

  • Message
  • Channels/Mediated Communication
  • The Process of Communication
  • Interpersonal/Intrapersonal/Small-Group/Organisational/Public Communication
  • Mass Communication
  • Communication and Culture
  • Gender Stereotypes
  • Cultures and their components
  • Gender roles and sexual orientation

BASIC CONCEPTS OF MASS MEDIA

  • The Mass Media Industry (Production, Distribution, Exhibition)
  • The MM Genres (Entertainment, News, Advertising, Education)
  • The Print Media (Books, Newspapers, Magazines)
  • The Electronic Media (Radio, Motion Picture, Television, Computers)
  • Advertising and Public Relations
  • Mass Media and Society
  • Communication and the media in the information age

BASIC CONCEPTS OF POLITICS

  • Order and disorder in the information age
  • International communication and international politics since 1945
  • The real new world information order
  • Brushfires and firefighters: international affairs and the news media
  • Foreign policy in the mass media age
  • Public opinion and foreign policy
  • Diplomacy and the media
  • Illusions of reality: the media and the reporting of warfare
  • Television and diplomacy
  • Framing the military-media dynamic
  • Mind games: information warfare and psychological operations

Resources and booklist suggestions:

  1. Joseph Turow, Media Today, An Introduction to Mass Communication, 3rd, Routledge
  2. Introduction to Mass Communication, 11thedition, Agee, Ault, Emery, Harper Collins Publishers
  3. Mass Communication Theory: An Introduction, D. McQuail, 2ndedition, Em Griffin
  4. A First Look at Communication Theory, 9thedition (McGraw-Hill, 2015)
  5. Negrine, R. (2006) The Political Communication Reader, Routledge;
  6. Stanyer, J. (2007) Modern Political Communication, Polity;
  7. Swanson, D. L. & Mancini, P. (1996) Politics, Media, and Modern Democracy. An International Study of Innovations in Electoral Campaigning and Their Consequences, Greenwood;

MATHEMATICS AND STATISTICS

MATHEMATICS AND STATISTICS (81 Hours)

Course Description: This course caters for students who already possess knowledge of basic mathematical concepts, and who are equipped with the skills needed to apply simple mathematical techniques correctly. The majority of these students will expect to need a sound mathematical background as they prepare for future studies in subjects such as chemistry, economics, psychology and business administration.

Aim of the Course: The course focuses on introducing important mathematical concepts through the development of mathematical techniques. The intention is to introduce students to these concepts in a comprehensible and coherent way, rather than insisting on the mathematical rigour required for mathematics HL. Students should, wherever possible, apply the mathematical knowledge they have acquired to solve realistic problems set in an appropriate context. The internally assessed component, the exploration, offers students the opportunity for developing independence in their mathematical learning. Students are encouraged to take a considered approach to various mathematical activities and to explore different mathematical ideas. The exploration also allows students to work without the time constraints of a written examination and to develop the skills they need for communicating mathematical ideas. 

Learning Outcomes:

  1. Enjoy mathematics, and develop an appreciation of the elegance and power of mathematics
  2. Develop an understanding of the principles and nature of mathematics.
  3. Communicate clearly and confidently in a variety of contexts
  4. Develop logical, critical and creative thinking, and patience and persistence in problem-solving
  5. Employ and refine their powers of abstraction and generalisation
  6. Apply and transfer skills to alternative situations, to other areas of knowledge and to future developments
  7. Appreciate how developments in technology and mathematics have influenced each other
  8. Appreciate the moral, social and ethical implications arising from the work of mathematicians and the applications of mathematics
  9. Appreciate the international dimension in mathematics through an awareness of the universality of mathematics and its multicultural and historical perspectives

Syllabus

MATHEMATICS Algebra: Sets of Real Numbers, Properties of Real Numbers, Operations With Algebraic Expressions, Equations, Inequalities and Applications, Algebraic Operations on Polynomials, Partial Fractions, Quadratic Equation theory, Quadratic Inequalities, Applications.

Exponential and Logarithmic functions and Equations, Cartesian Coordinates, Straight Line Equations, Equations of Parabolas and Hyperbolas.

Basic Trigonometric Functions, Trigonometric Equations and Identities. Sequences Of Numbers: Arithmetic Sequences, Geometric Sequences, Series.

Calculus: The Derivative Function, Simple Rules of Differentiation, The Chain Rule, Product And Quotient Rules. Tangents And Normals, Rates of Change. Integration: Antidifferentiation and Antiderivative,

The Fundamental Theorem of Calculus, Rules for Integration, The Definite Integral and Areas Under Curves, Volumes of Revolution, Mean Values, Further Applications of Differentiation and Integration.

Curve Properties (e.g. Maxima-Minima) and Sketching. Transformations, Matrices, Determinants. Differential Equations: First Order, Separable, Integrating Factor, Second order With Constant coefficients. Numerical Methods. Linear Algebra: Matrix Theory, Linear System Solutions, Linear Programming Methods. Advanced topics: Binomial expansion, Taylor series, numerical methods of finding roots of equations, the Trapezium rule, Simpson’s rule

Descriptive Statistics: Key Statistical Concepts, Sampling, Frequency Distributions, Graphical Representation of Statistical Data, Measures of Centre: Mean, Median, Mode, Cumulative Frequency, Cumulative Frequency Polygon, Measures of Spread: Quartiles, Percentiles, Standard Deviation, Standard Deviation and The Normal Curve (informal)

Inferential Statistics: Estimation, confidence Intervals, Hypothesis Testing. Statistical Modelling: Regression Analysis. Correlation Analysis.

Probability: Key Concepts, Experimental Probability, Theoretical Probability, Sample Space: Definition, Representations. Probability of Events, Compound Events and their Probability: Introduction, Sampling With and Without Replacement, Binomial Probabilities, Combination Counting. Laws of Probability: Sets And Venn Diagrams, The Addition Law, Mutually Exclusive Events, Conditional Probability, Independent Events, Dependent Events. Probabilities Using Permutations And Combinations. Bayes’ Theorem.

Discrete Random Variables: Mass Function, Common Distributions, Measures of Discrete Random Variables.

Continuous Random Variables: Probability Density, Measures of Continuous Random Variables. Nor- mal Distribution, Standard Normal Distribution, Standardizing any Normal Distribution, Applications of the Normal Distribution.

Resources and booklist suggestions:

  1. Introductory Mathematical Analysis, E. Haeussler, R. Paul, Prentice Hall International Editions
  2. A-Level Mathematics Longman Revise Guides.
  3. A Concise Course in A-Level Statistics (3rd ed.), J, Crawshaw, J. Chambers, Stanley Thornes (Publishers) Ltd.
  4. Mathematics, The core course for A-Level, L. Bostock and S. Chandler, Stanley Thornes (Publishers) Ltd.
  5. Further Pure Mathematics, L. Bostock, S. Chandler, C. Rourke, Stanley Thornes (Publishers) Ltd.
  6. Mathematics A-Level Course Companion Letts (Educational) Ltd.