Ssyilbus

Course Description

This course overviews the foundations of psychology as the field applies to everyday life. The physical and mental aspects of psychology are traced through lifespan development with emphasis on psychological health and wellness. Further study focuses on personality; thinking, learning and memory; motivation and emotions; and gender and sexuality. Based in various historical traditions, the course is set in the context of contemporary psychological principles.

Course Topics & Objectives

Week One: A Brief History of Psychology

Describe the subfields of psychology.

Explain the five major perspectives in the field of psychology.

Identify research methods used by psychologists.

Identify major ethical issues in the field of psychology research.

Week Two: The Brain and Mind

Identify the structure and functions of the brain.

Describe sensation and perception.

Recognize behaviors associated with states of consciousness.

Week Three: Learning and Memory

Compare classical and operant conditioning.

Summarize cognitive approaches to learning.

Explain the three-system approach to memory.

Week Four: Motivation and Emotion

· Compare different approaches to motivation.

· Summarize the varieties of human needs.

· Classify the range of emotions.

Week Five: Lifespan Development: Infancy and Childhood

Contrast the influence of nature vs. nurture.

Outline the milestones of physical, social, and cognitive development during childhood.

Week Six: Lifespan Development: Adulthood

Summarize the major transitions that characterize adolescence.

Explain social development in adulthood.

Identify the cognitive changes that occur in late adulthood.

Week Seven: Personality and Intelligence...