Course Overview and Structure

Introduction

This course, PSYC 1010, provides an introduction to the scientific study of psychology, including its history, foundational theories, and practical applications. The course is designed to foster a positive learning environment, promote student engagement, and focus on accessibility and flexibility.

Course Components

• Lectures: Delivered in-person with interactive discussions, activities, and videos. Slides are posted before class, and there is a break at the halfway mark.

• Assessments:

  • Tests: 21% each, with the lowest grade dropped. Includes multiple choice (MC) and short answer (SA) questions.

  • Course Quiz: 2%.

  • Applied Reflections: Choose 5 of 8 to complete throughout the year (2% each), posted to the discussion board and marked on effort/thoroughness.

  • URPP (Undergraduate Research Participation Program): 4%.

• Textbook: An Introduction to Psychological Science (opt-out model for lowest pricing; opt out in first 2 weeks if not purchasing).

• Study Prep: Optional but recommended for exam preparation.

Course Policies

• Refunding and missed test policies are in place.

• Academic honesty is emphasized; posting course materials to sharing websites is prohibited.

• Accommodations are available (book tests ahead of time).

• Office hours and email etiquette are important for communication.

Tips for Success

• Stay on top of readings and assignments.

• Seek help from professors or TAs early if you encounter difficulties.

• Complete all course components, especially if aiming for a higher grade.

• Use proper email etiquette.

• Get to know your professors, especially if considering graduate school.

• Make friends with classmates who share your work ethic; be cautious with group chats.

Common Concerns and Support

• Final/cumulative exams: Resources and review sessions are provided.

• Time management and work-life balance are encouraged.

• Opportunities to make friends and meet new people are available.

Challenging and Controversial Topics

Overview

The course may address topics that are uncomfortable, disturbing, or controversial, such as:

• Social psychology (e.g., conformity, obedience)

• Psychological disorders (e.g., crime, solitary confinement, incarceration)

• Psychology and law (e.g., wrongful convictions, eyewitness misidentification)

Learning about these topics is important for personal growth, empathy, social awareness, problem-solving, and gaining a deeper understanding of complex issues. The classroom environment emphasizes mutual respect and tolerance for differing opinions.

History and Foundations of Psychology

Psychology’s Past and Present

• Originally, psychology was a branch of philosophy; ancient Greeks contemplated the mind.

• Psychology became a formal discipline in the late 19th century.

• Wilhelm Wundt established the first psychology laboratory in 1879, focusing on the building blocks of the mind (structuralism) using introspection.

Structuralism

• Founded by Wilhelm Wundt and E.B. Titchener.

• Aimed to understand the structure and characteristics of the mind through introspection.

• Emphasized systematic observation to study consciousness.

Theoretical Perspectives in Psychology

Modern psychology is shaped by five primary schools of thought:

• Structuralism: Focuses on the structure of the mind and its components.

• Functionalism: Founded by William James; emphasizes the purpose of mental processes and behavior, influenced by the theory of natural selection.

• Behaviorism: Associated with John B. Watson and B.F. Skinner; focuses on observable behavior and the effects of reinforcement and punishment (operant conditioning).

• Cognitivism: Associated with Jean Piaget and Ulric Neisser; studies mental processes underlying thinking, emphasizing interpretation over reward or punishment.

• Psychodynamic: Founded by Sigmund Freud; explores the influence of the unconscious mind and early childhood experiences on behavior.

Additional info:

• Women in psychology have historically faced social prejudice and underrepresentation in faculty positions, though representation is improving.