Introduction to Psychology Syllabus

PSY 201 - Summer 2010

Required Text: Schacter, D.L., Gilbert, D.T., & Wegner, D.M. (2009). Psychology.  New York, NY: Worth. ISBN: 978-0-7167-5215-8

Objectives: This course represents an introduction to the concepts, principles, and problems basic to the understanding of behavior.  It is heavily experimental, in that we will not only discuss these ideas, but the research from which these ideas were derived.

The course will have both a theoretical and a practical emphasis.  On the theoretical side, you are expected to be able to identify and explain concepts presented in class and in assigned readings.  On the practical side, you are expected to show how these various concepts and principles can be applied to everyday matters of human behavior.

Catalog Description: A survey of basic concepts and methods of psychology as a behavioral science and seeks to develop an understanding of the individual and social forces that influence and direct behavior.  Prereq for all other psychology courses.

 This is a UCC Course - meeting requirement C2 -
C. The World: Enhancement of Cultural and Natural Awareness
C2. An understanding of individual development and social behavior
Students should know how individuals develop, interact, and organize themselves in political, religious, social, and economic spheres.  They should understand the significance and vitality of social organizations ranging from groups to institutions, and the role of the individual within social environments.

Lecture and Reading Outline:            This outline can be only an approximate guide, since the dates for particular lecture topics can be only approximate and since material may be added or deleted.  The dates and material for exams will be as listed, however, unless changes are absolutely necessary.  If changes affecting exams are made, they will be announced in class as soon as possible.

                                               
COURSE REQUIREMENTS

Grades: Grades will be based on the results of six exams.  Each exam will be worth 100 points.  The final exam will NOT be cumulative.  Tests will be composed of multiple choice questions.  Final grades will be determined by the total number of points you have earned in the course.

Class Sessions: You are expected to attend class and be prepared to discuss the planned topic.  You are responsible for all material covered in class and for any announcements made in class, regardless of whether you attend.  If you miss a class, obtain a copy of lecture notes from someone in the class.  If you have trouble understanding any aspect of them, other than legibility, come see me.  I do NOT give out my notes -- don’t ask.

 Exams: Each exam covers material presented in lecture and the textbook since the previous test.  You will need to read the book AND come to class, one or the other will not suffice.  You must take at least 4 of the 5 exams to pass this course.  The lowest grade of the 5 will be dropped.  If you miss an exam, that will be dropped.  No make-ups will be given.

Students may not retain copies of exam questions.  Do not arrive at an exam late; once anyone has finished the exam and left, no one else may start the exam. Students caught cheating on exams, projects, papers…will be dealt with severely, according to University regulations. Please check out the plagiarism web sites on our site.  Plagiarism will result in a minimal penalty of a 0 for that item, a maximum penalty of an F for the course and a recommendation for expulsion from the university.  If you are unsure of the regulations, they can be found in your Bulletin under Student Rights and Responsibilities. 

Plagiarism:  See notes under exams, but to complete this idea…  According to the Bulletin (1999-2001), "Plagiarism is literary burglary…[and]…is a crime (p. 40)."  Under Student Rights and Responsibilities (Bulletin, 1999-2001, p. 267-268), "the benchmarks of any great university are high academic standards for both teacher and student.  For this reason truth and honesty are necessary to a university community.  The University expects both students and faculty to adhere to these principles and to foster them daily."  Regardless of the penalty, a record will be made of the incident, sent to the dean of your college and added to your file.  Please do not make such a thoughtless mistake.