Peabody Conservatory of Music
Fall 2003
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., (2003) Psychology: An introduction eighth 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.
September 8 Chapter 1 What is Psychology?
Chapter 2 Research Methods in psychology
September 10 Appendix Measurement, Research Design and Statistics p. 681 A-1 to A-12
September 15 Appendix Measurement, Research Design and Statistics p. 681 A-1 to A-12
September 17 Chapter 3 Biological Foundations of Behavior
September 22 Chapter 3 Biological Foundations of Behavior
September 24 Chapter 4 Sensation and Perception (pp. 143-157 only)
September 29 Chapter 5 States of Consciousness
October 1 Chapter 6 Basic Principles of Learning
October 6 Chapter 6 Basic Principles of Learning
October 8 First examination Chapters 1-6 + Appendix
October 13 Mid-term holiday, no class
October 15 Chapter 7 Memory
October 20 Chapter 8 Cognition, Language and Intelligence (Don't read pp. 285-291 on language).
October 22 Chapter 9 Developmental Psychology
October 27 Chapter 9 Developmental Psychology
October 29 Chapter 10 Motivation and Emotion
November 3 Second examination Chapters 7--10
November 5 Chapter 11 Gender and Sexuality
November 10 Chapter 12 Personality Theories and Assessment
November 12 Chapter 13 Stress and Health
November 17 Third examination Chapters 11 - 13
November 19 Chapter 14 Abnormal Behavior
November 24 Chapter 14 Abnormal Behavior
November 26 No class--Thanksgiving holiday
December 1 Chapter 15 Therapies
December 3 Chapter 15 Therapies
Chapter 16 Social Psychology
December 8 Chapter 16 Social Psychology
December 10 Review--Last class
December 16-18 Final examination (Cumulative, Not Chapter 17)
Date of final exam to be announced in class, most likely December 17
Date of final exam to be announced in class - Most likely December 17.
You must take the exams on the dates they are assigned. This is an early class. Don't be late!
You will be sent material and announcements via email. Make sure you read your email!
Peabody statement regarding disability: "If you are a student with a disability or
believe you might have a disability that requires accommodations, please contact
Dr. Eileen Soskin, Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, the Peabody Conservatory of the Johns Hopkins
University at 410-659-8100, extension 4405 esoskin@peabody.jh.edu, or Ms. Peggy Hayeslip, University
Coordinator of Disability Services at 410-516-6224 phayeslip@jhu.edu to discuss reasonable
and appropriate accommodations."
