Introduction to Educational Psychology for Teachers (EDPS 200)

Course Overview: Educational Psychology for Teachers

Introduction

This course, EDPS 200, provides an introduction to the field of educational psychology with a focus on its application for teachers. The course aims to develop students' understanding of psychological principles relevant to teaching, learning, and classroom environments.

• Course Title: Educational Psychology for Teachers

• Instructor: Psychologist with experience in mental health and education

• Institution: Faculty of Education, University of Edmonton

• Start Date: September, 2025

Course Structure and Policies

The course begins with an overview of important policies, syllabus review, and expectations for student engagement. Students are encouraged to participate actively and communicate openly with the instructor.

• Course Content: Lectures, activities, textbook readings, and assessments

• Assessment: Transparent grading, constructive feedback, and use of educational technologies

• Policies: Timely submission of assignments, no late submissions accepted

• Student Support: Instructor is open to feedback, questions, and concerns

Main Topics in Educational Psychology

What is Educational Psychology?

Educational psychology is the discipline concerned with understanding how people learn and develop in educational settings. It applies theories of human development, learning, and motivation to improve teaching and learning outcomes.

• Definition: The study of how people learn in educational environments, including schools and informal settings

• Key Focus: Teaching strategies, student characteristics, classroom management, assessment, and motivation

• Application: Informing instructional practices and supporting diverse learners

Roles and Responsibilities of the Instructor

The instructor's role is to facilitate learning by providing clear communication, effective use of technology, and fair assessment practices.

• Communication: Clearly explain course content and expectations

• Support: Respond promptly to student questions and provide helpful feedback

• Assessment: Use transparent grading and provide constructive feedback

• Engagement: Encourage student participation and self-reflection

Student Success Strategies

Students are encouraged to develop self-awareness, motivation, and effective study habits to succeed in the course.

• Self-Awareness: Reflect on personal learning goals and challenges

• Motivation: Connect course content to personal relevance and future career

• Study Strategies: Use recommended resources and find methods that work best for individual learning styles

• Support: Reach out for help and participate in campus resources

Key Concepts in Educational Psychology

Major Areas of Study

• Cognition: Understanding how students think, process information, and solve problems

• Academic Skills: Developing reading, writing, and mathematical abilities

• Development: Examining physical, cognitive, and social-emotional growth

• Motivation: Exploring factors that influence student engagement and persistence

• Assessment: Using data, tests, and feedback to inform instruction

Research and Evidence-Based Practice

Educational psychology relies on both quantitative and qualitative research methods to inform best practices in teaching and learning.

• Quantitative Research: Uses numerical data and statistical analysis

• Qualitative Research: Explores experiences, perceptions, and classroom interactions

• Evidence-Based Practice: Applying research findings to improve educational outcomes

Social and Emotional Awareness

Developing empathy and understanding for students' social and emotional needs is essential for effective teaching.

• Empathy: Recognizing challenges students may face

• Respect: Contributing to a supportive classroom environment

• Application: Using psychological principles to foster positive relationships and community impact

Table: Comparison of Psychology and Education

Aspect	Psychology	Education
Focus	Cognition, development, motivation	Academic skills, teaching strategies
Settings	Clinical, research, school	Classroom, school, community
Methods	Assessment, data, tests	Instruction, curriculum, evaluation

Example: Applying Educational Psychology

A teacher uses knowledge of motivation theories to design engaging lessons that encourage student participation and persistence. By understanding developmental stages, the teacher adapts instruction to meet the needs of diverse learners.

Additional info:

• Course includes optional videos and articles for further study

• Students are encouraged to complete introductory surveys and communicate accommodation needs