PSY 240: Introduction to Psychology
Course Description:
PSY 240 is an introductory course in the field of psychology. The course aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental concepts, theories, and research methods in psychology. It covers a wide range of topics including the history of psychology, biological bases of behavior, sensation and perception, learning and memory, motivation and emotion, personality, social psychology, and abnormal psychology.
Course Objectives:
Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
1. Demonstrate knowledge of the major theoretical perspectives and concepts in psychology.
2. Understand the biological and environmental factors that influence behavior and mental processes.
3. Analyze and apply research methods used in psychological research.
4. Evaluate and critique psychological research studies.
5. Apply psychological principles to real-life situations.
6. Understand the ethical considerations in psychological research and practice.
7. Develop effective communication and critical thinking skills.
Course Requirements and Assessments:
1. Readings: The course will require reading from the assigned textbook and additional readings as provided by the instructor. It is essential to complete the readings before each class to actively participate in discussions.
2. Assignments: There will be regular assignments throughout the course, including quizzes, essays, and group projects. These assignments aim to assess students’ understanding of key concepts and their ability to apply them to real-life scenarios.
3. Exams: There will be two exams during the semester, a midterm and a final exam. These exams will cover the material discussed in lectures, readings, and class discussions.
4. Class Participation: Active participation in class discussions and activities is crucial for enhancing understanding of the material and engaging with peers. Attendance and participation will be considered during the grading process.
Grading Policy:
The grading scale for this course is as follows:
– Exams: 40% (20% for midterm, 20% for final exam)
– Assignments: 30%
– Class Participation: 10%
– Quizzes: 10%
– Group Project: 10%
Course Policies:
1. Attendance: Regular attendance is expected. Students who miss more than three classes without a valid excuse will receive a grade deduction.
2. Late Work: Late assignments will only be accepted with a valid reason, and a grade deduction might be applied as per the discretion of the instructor.
3. Academic Honesty: Plagiarism or any form of academic dishonesty will not be tolerated. It is important to properly cite and reference all sources used in assignments and exams.
4. Communication: Students are encouraged to communicate with the instructor regarding any questions or concerns about the course material. Office hours will be provided for individual consultations.
Recommended Textbook:
– “Psychology: From Inquiry to Understanding” by Scott O. Lilienfeld, Steven J. Lynn, Laura L. Namy, and Nancy J. Woolf.
Additional readings and resources will be shared throughout the course.
Course Schedule:
Week 1: Introduction to Psychology and its Research Methods
– Readings: Chapter 1 – The Science of Psychology
– Discussion: Overview of the field of psychology, its history, and research methods.
Week 2: Biological Bases of Behavior
– Readings: Chapter 2 – Biological Foundations of Behavior
– Discussion: Neurotransmitters, brain structures, and their role in behavior.
Week 3: Sensation and Perception
– Readings: Chapter 3 – Sensation and Perception
– Discussion: The processes of sensation and perception, including vision, hearing, taste, and touch.
Week 4: Learning and Memory
– Readings: Chapter 6 – Learning; Chapter 7 – Memory
– Discussion: Classical and operant conditioning, stages of memory, and factors affecting memory.
Week 5: Motivation and Emotion
– Readings: Chapter 11 – Motivation and Emotion
– Discussion: Biological and psychological factors influencing motivation and emotion.
Week 6: Personality
– Readings: Chapter 12 – Personality
– Discussion: Major theories of personality, including psychodynamic, humanistic, and trait theories.
Week 7: Social Psychology
– Readings: Chapter 14 – Social Psychology
– Discussion: Group behavior, interpersonal attraction, aggression, and attitudes.
Week 8: Abnormal Psychology
– Readings: Chapter 15 – Psychological Disorders
– Discussion: Classification and diagnosis of psychological disorders, treatment approaches.
Week 9: Review and Exam Preparation
– Exam 1
Weeks 10-14: Advanced Topics in Psychology
– Topics will include cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, industrial-organizational psychology, and positive psychology. Each week will focus on a specific topic.
– Readings and discussions will be assigned accordingly.
Week 15: Review and Exam Preparation
– Final Exam
Please note that the schedule is subject to change based on the pace of the class and instructor’s discretion.
Disclaimer: This syllabus is a guideline and may be modified by the instructor as deemed necessary to best meet the educational goals of the course.
References:
Lilienfeld, S. O., Lynn, S. J., Namy, L. L., & Woolf, N. J. (2019). Psychology: From Inquiry to Understanding. Pearson.
