Introduction to Psychology
Psychology
Mr. Fuller
Email: ianfuller@hpcsd.org
Rooms 500
Course Description:
This half-year course addresses the basic principles of psychology, which is the study of mental processes and behavior. The scope of psychology is broad; therefore this course serves as an introduction to the theories, methodology, biological bases, research and leading pioneers and research in the field of psychology. Areas of focus for the introductory course include psychological perspectives, learning, memory, motivation, sensation and perception, and parts of the brain.
Course Objectives:
To learn about psychology and critical thinking
To become familiar with basic psychological terminology
To encourage thinking about learning and the different components of the learning process (attention, memory, language, social cognition, etc…)
To identify personal strengths and weaknesses and discover ways to maximize strengths and compensate for weaknesses
To develop an understanding of the scientific methods used in psychological research while designing and conducting a research experiment
To research, create, and present a student led discussion on either an occupation related to psychology or a specific area of interest in psychology
To recognize, tolerate, respect, and celebrate individual differences in learning and behavior
To participate in worthwhile activities and discussions along the way
Units
Introduction to psychology, vocabulary, purpose, perspectives, founding figures. Project – Founding Figures in Psych. Presentation.
Research in psychology – goals, methods, issues. Project – research question, observation and survey
Human learning – classical and operant conditioning, observational learning, social – cognitive learning theory. Problem solving. Project – extra credit – students will teach a short lesson based on a learning style
Memory – types of memory, storage, process. Project – memory song task – presentation of a song and related memory
Parts of the Brain and Their Functions – Projects – clay neurons. Life sized map of systems
Sensation and perception – senses and the relation among our senses and perceptions.
Occupations related to psychology. Ongoing theme throughout the course. Project – presentations on careers involving psychology beginning near the end of the course
Student Responsibilities
Treat the teacher, classmates, and yourself with respect and care as individuals
Attend classes regularly and on time
Missed assignments are the students responsibility to get and make up
Participate in discussions and complete all assignments on time
Be cooperative and minimize disruptions
Learn and master the content of the course
Maintain an organized binder or notebook and folder of class materials
Grading Policy:
33% Tests and quizzes
33% Papers and projects
33% Participation – includes participation in discussions and activities,
attendance, homework, and class work