Introduction to Psychology: PSYC 1010 Syllabus and Foundations

Course Overview: PSYC 1010

Introduction

PSYC 1010 is an introductory course designed to provide students with foundational knowledge in psychology. The course covers major theoretical perspectives, historical context, and essential skills for success in the field.

Course Structure and Policies

Teaching Philosophy

• Foster a positive learning environment: The course aims to create a supportive and inclusive atmosphere for all students.

• Promote student engagement: Interactive lectures, discussions, and activities encourage active participation.

• Focus on accessibility and flexibility: Materials and assessments are designed to accommodate diverse student needs.

Lectures

• Delivered in-person with discussions, interactive elements, and videos.

• Slides are posted before class for student review.

• Includes a break at the halfway mark and fun in-class activities.

Assessments

• Tests: Multiple choice (MC) and short answer (SA), 21% each, with the lowest grade dropped.

• Course quiz: 2% of final grade.

• Applied reflections: Choose 5 of 8 to complete throughout the year, each worth 2%.

• URPP: Undergraduate Research Participation Program, 4%.

Reflections

• Posted to the discussion board; students cannot see other responses until they reply.

• One week to reply; no extensions or exceptions.

• Marked based on effort and thoroughness (out of 2 points).

• Minimum 250 words unless otherwise noted.

• Prompts include: "What was the most confusing or unclear part of today's material?", "What was the most important thing you learned today?", "What question do you still have?"

Textbook and Study Resources

• Textbook: An Introduction to Psychological Science (opt-out model for lowest pricing; opt out in first 2 weeks if not purchasing).

• Study Prep: Optional but highly recommended for exam preparation.

Course Policies

• Grading and refund policies.

• Missed tests and academic honesty (no posting on course-sharing websites).

• Accommodations (book tests ahead of time).

• Office hours and email etiquette.

Tips for Success

• Stay on top of readings and assignments.

• Talk to the professor or TA if you are having trouble; do not wait until the end.

• Complete all course components, especially if aiming for a higher grade.

• Use proper email etiquette.

• If interested in graduate school, get to know your professors.

• Make friends with classmates who share your work ethic; be cautious with group chats.

Common Concerns and Support

• Final/cumulative exams.

• Resources for studying, including test review sessions.

• Time management and work-life balance.

• Making friends and meeting new people.

Controversial Topics in Psychology

Examples and Importance

• Social psychology (conformity, obedience).

• Psychological disorders (crime, solitary confinement, incarceration).

• Psychology and law (wrongful convictions, eyewitness misidentification).

Learning about these topics is important for:

• Personal growth

• Empathy and understanding

• Social awareness

• Problem-solving

• Gaining a deeper understanding of complex issues

Classroom norms: Mutual respect, tolerance for dissenting opinions, and a positive, safe environment.

History and Foundations of Psychology

Psychology’s Past and Present

• Originally part of philosophy; ancient Greeks contemplated the mind.

• Formal beginning in the late 19th century.

• Wilhelm Wundt: Established the first psychology lab in 1879; studied the building blocks of the mind using introspection.

Structuralism

• Key Figures: Wilhelm Wundt and E.B. Titchener.

• Focused on understanding the structure and characteristics of the mind through introspection.

• Emphasized systematic observation to study consciousness.

Theoretical Perspectives in Psychology

Modern psychology is shaped by five primary schools of thought:

Perspective	Key Features	Notable Figures
Structuralism	Analyzes the structure of the mind via introspection	Wilhelm Wundt, E.B. Titchener
Functionalism	Focuses on the purpose and function of mental processes	William James
Behaviorism	Emphasizes observable behavior and its control	John B. Watson, B.F. Skinner
Cognitivism	Studies mental processes underlying thinking and interpretation	Jean Piaget, Ulric Neisser
Psychodynamic	Explores the role of the unconscious and early childhood experiences	Sigmund Freud

Additional info: These perspectives provide different approaches to understanding behavior, from internal mental processes to external observable actions.