PSYC 1010: Introduction to Psychology – Syllabus and Foundations

Course Overview and Structure

Introduction

This course, PSYC 1010, provides an introduction to the scientific study of psychology, including its foundational theories, research methods, and applications. The course is designed to foster a positive learning environment, promote student engagement, and focus on accessibility and flexibility.

Course Components

• Lectures: Delivered in-person with interactive discussions, activities, and videos. Slides are posted before class. There is a break at the halfway mark and regular in-class activities.

• Assessments:

  • Tests: Two major tests (21% each, lowest grade dropped), including multiple choice (MC) and short answer (SA) questions.

  • Course Quiz: Worth 2% of the final grade.

  • Applied Reflections: Choose 5 out of 8 reflection assignments throughout the year (2% each), posted to the discussion board and marked on effort and thoroughness.

  • URPP: Undergraduate Research Participation Pool (4%).

• 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.

Reflections

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

• One week to reply; no extensions or exceptions.

• Minimum 250 words unless otherwise noted.

• Sample prompts: "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?"

Course Policies

• Refunding policies and missed test procedures.

• Academic honesty: No posting of course materials to sharing websites.

• Accommodations: Book tests ahead of time if needed.

• Office hours and email etiquette are emphasized.

Tips for Success

• Stay on top of readings and assignments.

• Seek help early from professors or TAs if struggling.

• Complete all course components for best results.

• Use proper email etiquette.

• Get to know your professors, especially if considering graduate school.

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

Common Concerns and Support

• Final/cumulative exams: Resources and review sessions provided.

• Time management and work-life balance are important for success.

• Opportunities to make friends and meet new people are encouraged.

Challenging and Controversial Topics

Overview

The course may address topics that are uncomfortable, disturbing, or controversial, such as:

• Social psychology (e.g., conformity, obedience)

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

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

Learning about these topics is important for personal growth, empathy, social awareness, problem-solving, and understanding complex issues. The classroom environment emphasizes mutual respect and tolerance for differing opinions.

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, focusing on the building blocks of the mind (structuralism) using introspection.

Structuralism

• Founded by Wilhelm Wundt and E.B. Titchener.

• Aimed to understand the structure and characteristics of the mind through introspection.

• Emphasized systematic observation to study consciousness.

• Introspection: The process of examining one’s own conscious thoughts and feelings.

Theoretical Perspectives in Psychology

Modern psychology is shaped by five primary schools of thought, each offering a different explanation for behavior:

• Structuralism: Focuses on the structure of the mind and its components.

• Functionalism: Emphasizes the purpose of mental processes and behavior; influenced by the theory of natural selection. Associated with William James.

• Behaviorism: Focuses on observable behavior and the ways it can be controlled. Key figures include John B. Watson and B.F. Skinner. Introduced concepts such as reinforcement and punishment (operant conditioning).

• Cognitivism: Studies mental processes underlying thinking, memory, and interpretation. Associated with Jean Piaget and Ulric Neisser.

• Psychodynamic: Founded by Sigmund Freud, this perspective emphasizes the role of the unconscious mind and early childhood experiences in shaping behavior.

Additional info:

• Women in psychology have historically faced social prejudice and underrepresentation, though their participation is increasing.

• Critical thinking and scientific methods are emphasized throughout the course.