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Student Perspective<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n\n\n Below, one of our Level 6 students, Bahar Bezer, shares her experience of the trip: <\/p>\n\n\n\n A few weeks ago, our class took a trip to ZSL London Zoo, and honestly, it was such a great experience. It wasn\u2019t just a fun day out; it really changed the way I look at animal behaviour and consciousness.<\/em> <\/p>\n\n\n\n At the start, we were given a sheet highlighting key factors to consider, including a zoo observation guide and a reminder of how we’re all related\u202fas primates – monkeys, great apes, African apes, and humans. One exercise involved a laterality index questionnaire, where we reflected on whether we were left- or right-handed, much like how we observe handedness in apes. It was fascinating to compare how different species use their hands and how this might relate to brain function. We also noted that an animal\u2019s environment and brain density influenced its behaviour more than just its physical size, which really shifted how we observed them.<\/em> <\/p>\n\n\n\n One of the most interesting aspects was learning how to observe animals through \u2018zooming in\u2019 and \u2018zooming out.\u2019 Instead of just watching animals in a general sense, we focused on small, specific behaviours – like a primate carefully using a tool or a subtle shift in facial expression. Then, we \u2018zoomed out\u2019 to consider the bigger picture: the animal\u2019s environment, interactions, and the possible reasons behind its behaviour. It really highlighted the complexity of animal consciousness and how much we might underestimate their awareness.<\/em> <\/p>\n\n\n\n The trip also made me reflect on zoos in general. On one hand, they allow us to study and appreciate animals up close, which is so valuable for education and conservation. But at the same time, it raises questions about captivity and whether these environments can ever truly replicate an animal\u2019s natural habitat. It\u2019s something I\u2019ll keep thinking about, especially in the context of our Consciousness\u202fmodule. Seeing how certain mammals, like apes, interact with their young – the way they nurture, protect, and even discipline them – was a powerful reminder of how close yet distant human and animal consciousness can feel. The similarities can be striking, but at the same time, there are depths of human awareness that seem just out of reach for them, or perhaps we just don’t fully understand theirs yet.<\/em> <\/p>\n\n\n\n Overall, the experience deepened my understanding of animal behaviour in a way that just reading about it never could. Plus, let\u2019s be honest – any excuse to spend a day at the zoo is always a win!<\/em> <\/p>\n\n\n\n Learning Beyond the Classroom<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n\n\n This field trip is just one of the many ways we bring psychology to life at Westminster. By stepping outside the classroom and using London as a learning resource, our students gain hands-on experience that deepens their understanding of complex psychological concepts. Whether it’s through observing primates at the zoo, debating consciousness in class, or engaging in interactive assessments, we ensure that learning is dynamic, relevant, and inspiring. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
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