This course provides a comprehensive overview of the fundamental principles and concepts in psychology, the scientific study of behavior and mental processes. Students will explore the historical foundations, major theories, and research methods used in psychology. Topics covered include biological bases of behavior, sensation and perception, learning and memory, motivation and emotion, developmental psychology, personality theories & psychological disorders, Through lectures, discussions, online activities and hands-on activities, students will gain insights into the complexities of human behavior and the factors that influence it.
- Foundational Knowledge: Understand and describe the major concepts, theoretical perspectives, historical trends, and empirical findings in psychology.
- Research Methods: Identify and explain the basic methodologies used in psychological research, including experimental, observational, and survey methods.
- Critical Thinking: Analyze and critically evaluate information to solve problems and make informed decisions related to psychological principles and research.
- Application of Concepts: Apply psychological concepts, theories, and research findings to real-world situations and personal experiences.
- Ethical Awareness: Recognize ethical standards in psychological research and practice, and understand the importance of ethical behavior in diverse settings.
DeWall, C. N., & Myers, D. G. (2022). Exploring Psychology.. Worth Publishers. Macmillan Learning. ISBN:9781319429805
You will need access to the Achieve online learning platform. Access this through the Canvas module and this will include an electronic copy of the current edition of this book. I’ll provide any other readings for you. You’ll find a link and instructions in the Canvas course, sign up using this link, or you won’t automatically be connected to the course. There will be homework for you to do that uses the online material, so you must have access to Achieve to take part in the course.
Assessment Points Totals:
Midterm Tests: 300- lowest score of the 4 dropped (30%)
Final Exam: 300 (30%)
Research Requirement: 40 (4%)
Class Participation: 60 (6%)
Achieve & Other Homework: 300 (30%)
Total: 1000 (100%)
The proportion of the points you need for each letter grade is: A: 90% B: 80% C: 70% D: 60% The above grading scheme represents the toughest I will grade, however, the cutoffs for grades might be relaxed depending on the proportion of students achieving each grade- having said that, lobbying will not turn an individual score of 78% into 80%!
Active engagement and participation is critical for your learning. Therefore, you will earn participation points for in-class engagement in labs and other activities. Participation will be graded based on student presence and preparedness.
Students are expected to maintain the highest standards of academic integrity. All work submitted must be original and properly cited. Plagiarism, cheating, or any form of academic dishonesty will result in immediate consequences as outlined in the university's academic integrity policy.
PSYC 1101-A FALL 2025
This is a Core IMPACTS course that is part of the Social Sciences area.
Core IMPACTS refers to the core curriculum, which provides students with essential knowledge in foundational academic areas. This course will help students master course content, and support students’ broad academic and career goals.
This course should direct students toward a broad Orienting Question:
- How do I understand human experiences and connections?
Completion of this course should enable students to meet the following Learning Outcome:
- Students will effectively analyze the complexity of human behavior, and how historical, economic, political, social, or geographic relationships develop, persist, or change.
Course content, activities and exercises in this course should help students develop the following Career-Ready Competencies:
- Intercultural Competence
- Perspective-Taking
- Persuasion