Peabody Conservatory of Music
Fall 2002
290.111 - INTRODUCTION TO PSYCHOLOGY
Mondays and Wednesdays 8:00 - 9:20 A.M.
Room: 114 LH (Lincoln Hall)
Faculty: Dr. Jeffrey A. Schaler
jeffschaler@attglobal.net
http://www.schaler.net
Office hours by appointment:
Telephone (301) 585-5664
Course Description
An introduction to the fields and research methods of contemporary psychology, including such topics as biological and social bases of behavior, human development, perception, memory, learning theory, intelligence, and abnormal behavior. Lecture and discussion format.
Course Objectives
1. To familiarize students with current theoretical terms and concepts in the psychology field, the methods used to research these concepts, and the applications of the concepts in clinical and educational settings.
2. To develop observational skill in self-observation and the observation of others.
3. To develop objective and critical evaluations of psychological theories and their applications from a philosophical point of view.
4. To develop an understanding and awareness of psychological problems, contemporary theories regarding their etiology, and treatment approaches.
Required Text:
Lahey, Benjamin B., (2001) Psychology: An introduction seventh edition. McGraw Hill. Use the accompanying study guide.
Course Requirements and Grades
Examination #1 20%
Examination #2 20%
Examination #3 20%
Final examination 40%
Total: 100%
--> Material discussed in class, and not in any of the readings, may form the basis for questions on the examinations. One grade reduction for over four absences. Sign in at each class. Students are responsible for anything covered in class during their absence, including material presented in films. Readings must be completed by the session to which they are assigned. If Dr. Schaler is absent, please complete the pre-identified assignment, or start the film/video which is available in your classroom. Expect that material on films will be on the examinations.
CLASS SCHEDULE
September 9 Chapter 1 What is Psychology? Chapter 2 Research Methods September 11 Appendix (p. 677/A1-12) Measurement, Research Design and Statistics September 16 Appendix (p. 677/A1-A12) Measurement, Research Design and Statistics September 18 Chapter 3 Biological Foundations of Behavior September 23 Chapter 3 Biological Foundations of Behavior September 25 Chapter 4 Sensation and Perception (pp. 137-147 only) September 30 Chapter 5 States of Consciousness October 2 Chapter 6 Basic Principles of Learning October 7 Chapter 6 Basic Principles of Learning October 9 First examination Chapters 1-6 + Appendix October 14 Mid-term holiday, no class October 16 Chapter 7 Memory October 21 Chapter 8 Cognition, Language and Intelligence (Don't read pp. 286-293 on language.) October 23 Chapter 9 Developmental Psychology October 28 Chapter 9 Developmental Psychology October 30 Chapter 10 Motivation and Emotion November 4 Second examination Chapters 7--10 November 6 Chapter 11 Gender and Sexuality November 11 Chapter 12 Personality Theories and Assessment November 13 Chapter 13 Stress and Health November 18 Third examination Chapters 11 - 13 November 20 Chapter 14 Abnormal Behavior November 25 Chapter 14 Abnormal Behavior November 27 No class--Thanksgiving holiday December 2 Chapter 15 Therapies December 7 Chapter 15 Therapies Chapter 16 Social Psychology December 9 Chapter 16 Social Psychology December 11 Review December 16-18 Final examination (Cumulative, Not Chapter 17) Date of final exam to be announced in class
