Course Overview

Introduction to Psychology

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to psychology as both a biological and social science. It covers foundational topics such as research methodology, physiological processes, perception, learning, memory, cognition, human development, animal behaviour, emotion, motivation, consciousness, personality, psychological disorders, treatment, and social psychology. The course is designed for students who have completed Psychology 1000 and aims to build a broad understanding of psychological principles and their applications.

Course Structure and Evaluation

Course Delivery

• Lecture Schedule: In-person classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays, with traditional lectures and in-class activities.

• Attendance: Not mandatory but highly recommended for optimal learning and performance.

• Course Materials: All textbook, lecture, and slide content is examinable.

Evaluation Methods

Students can choose between two grading paths, each with different weightings for quizzes, activities, midterm, and final exams. This flexibility allows students to select the path that best matches their learning style and academic goals.

Additional info: Path 1 is recommended for students seeking hands-on experience in psychological sub-fields, while Path 2 is suitable for those who prefer traditional exam-based assessment.

Assessment Details

• Online Quizzes: Eight weekly quizzes (20 multiple-choice questions each), with the top six scores counted. Strict deadlines apply; no deferrals are allowed.

• In-Class Activities: Group-based but individually submitted activities, with the lowest two grades dropped. Only Path 1 students are graded, but all are encouraged to participate.

• Midterm Exam: Covers Chapters 9-11, includes multiple-choice and matching questions. Scheduled for February 12th, 2026.

• Final Exam: Non-cumulative, covers Chapters 12-15. Scheduled by the registrar during the official exam period.

Course Content and Schedule

Weekly Topics and Readings

The course follows a structured schedule, with each week dedicated to a major area of psychology. The readings correspond to chapters in the open-access textbook "Introduction to Psychology and Neuroscience" (MUN Edition).

Additional info: The schedule includes important academic dates such as midterm break, last day to drop courses, and exam period.

Academic Policies and Resources

Student Accommodations

• Memorial University supports inclusive education and provides accommodations for students with disabilities. Students must initiate accommodation requests as per university policy.

Academic Integrity

• Students are expected to adhere to university regulations regarding academic conduct. Academic offenses may result in penalties such as grade reduction, probation, suspension, or expulsion.

• Resources on plagiarism and academic misconduct are available on the university website.

Support Services

• Writing Centre

• Student Wellness and Counselling Centre

• Blundon Centre

• Centre for Innovation and Teaching

Study Strategies

Effective Study Habits

• Read each chapter before class and use audio tools for review.

• Maintain a consistent study schedule and actively participate in lectures.

• Take detailed notes and revisit material after each lecture.

• Use flashcards and self-testing to reinforce learning.

• Avoid cramming and media multitasking to improve attention and retention.

Additional info: Teaching others and spaced repetition are evidence-based strategies for enhancing memory and understanding.

Research Participation (PREP)

Bonus Credit for Research Experience

• Students may earn up to 3% bonus credit by participating in psychology research studies through the PREP system.

• Participation can be in-person or online, with a maximum of two points from online studies and at least one from in-person experience.

• Alternative written assignments are available for those who do not wish to participate in studies.

• Instructors only see the total credit points earned, not the specific studies or assignments completed.

Contact Information

Key Contacts

• Instructor: Dr. Laura Fallon (lfallon@mun.ca)

• Teaching Assistants: Kathryn Danyk, Julien Relente, Matthew Wheeler

• Course Manager: Adam Brown

• Department Secretary: Marilyn Simms

• Department Head: Dr. Christina Thorpe

• Mediator: Dr. Darlene Skinner

• First-Year Coordinator: Dr. Felix Aseyu

Textbook Information

Required Text

• Title: Introduction to Psychology and Neuroscience, MUN Edition

• Editors: Fitzpatrick, C., & Thorpe, C. (2022)

• eISBN: 978-1-7781696-3-2

• Access: Open Access Textbook