Course Description
The study of research methodologies, empirical findings, and theoretical concerns in the area of interpersonal behavior. Pre-requisites: PSYC 1310 (or permission of the Instructor).
Required Textbooks & Materials
R. Biswas-Diener & E. Diener (Eds.). (2022). Noba textbook series: The science of social psychology. Champaign, IL: DEF Publishers. DOI: http://noba.to/bqwvhydj
This textbook is FREE and is accessed online through nobaproject.com.
Course Structure
This is a 5-week course. You are expected to read the modules in each unit within the course textbook, complete assignments related to chapter content, and take 5 exams, each of which will cover one unit. Exams for each unit will be due at the end of each week. Assignments are due by 11:59pm on August 9th. Please see the course schedule.
Because this is an online course, it is somewhat self-paced. Remember, however, that you will only have 5 weeks to complete the course, so it is important that you stay on top of the readings, assignments, and exams and pay attention to due dates/deadlines. As a result, self-motivation and self-discipline will be necessary in order for you to do well in the course.
Technical Requirements
Students must have access to a reliable Internet connection. Students should have a basic working knowledge of how to navigate and use D2L. This course will require the use of Microsoft Word or another word processing program to complete assignments. Students will also need a PDF reader, which is available on D2L.
Course Purpose & Goals
This 3-credit hour course is designed to provide you with a greater knowledge and understanding of social psychology. Objectives for this course include 1) learning more about the influence of social factors on the individual and about the behavior of groups; 2) developing a working knowledge of past and present research conducted in social psychology; and 3) learning about the methods, designs, and ethics associated with research in social psychology.
Course Learning Objectives
At the conclusion of this course, students are expected to:
 What social psychology is and how it differs from other disciplines.
The topics social psychologists study and the research methodology commonly used in social psychological research.
The self and self-control.
Social cognition.
Attitudes and beliefs.
Emotion and affect.
Social influence, including persuasion, compliance, conformity, obedience to authority, helping, cooperation, and groups and group processes.
Stereotypes, prejudice, discrimination, and intergroup relations.
Antisocial and aggressive behavior.
Attraction and exclusion, including the human need to belong, close relationships, love, and sex.