PSYC 1010: Introduction to Psychology – Syllabus, Foundations, and Major Perspectives

Course Overview and Policies

Introduction to PSYC 1010

This course provides an introduction to the scientific study of psychology, covering foundational concepts, major theoretical perspectives, and essential skills for success in the discipline.

• Instructor: Dr. Alisha Salerno

• Lecture Format: In-person, interactive discussions, videos, and activities

• Slides: Posted before class

• Breaks: Scheduled at the half-way mark

Teaching Philosophy

• Foster a positive learning environment

• Promote student engagement

• Focus on accessibility and flexibility

Assessments

• Tests: 21% each, drop the lowest grade; includes multiple choice (MC) and short answer (SA)

• Course Quiz: 2%

• Applied Reflections: Choose 5 of 8 throughout the year (2% each)

• URPP: 4% (University Research Participation Program)

Reflections

• Posted to the discussion board

• Cannot see other responses until you reply

• One week to reply – no extensions, no exceptions

• Marked based on effort/thoroughness (out of 2)

• 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 (Pearson)

• Opt-out model: Students are automatically charged unless they opt out in the first two weeks

• Study Prep: Not mandatory but highly recommended for exam preparation

Course Policies

• Missed tests and refunding policies

• Academic honesty: No posting to course-sharing websites

• Accommodations: Book your 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 applying to graduate school, get to know your professors

• Make friends with classmates who share your work ethic; beware of 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

Major and Controversial Topics in Psychology

Controversial Topics

Some topics in psychology may be uncomfortable or disturbing, but discussing them is important for personal and academic growth.

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

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

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

Importance of Learning About Controversial Topics:

• Personal growth

• Empathy and understanding

• Social awareness

• Problem-solving

• Deeper understanding of complex issues

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

Foundations of Psychology

Psychology’s Past and Present

Psychology originated as a branch of philosophy, with ancient Greeks contemplating the mind. It formally began in the late 19th century.

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

Structuralism

Structuralism was one of the earliest schools of thought in psychology, focusing on the structure and characteristics of the mind.

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

• Method: Introspection – systematic observation of conscious experience

• Goal: Understand the basic elements of consciousness

Example: Participants might describe their sensations and feelings in response to stimuli, aiming to break down mental processes into their simplest components.

Theoretical Perspectives in Psychology

Modern psychology is shaped by five primary schools of thought, each offering unique explanations for behavior.

Perspective	Key Figures	Main Focus
Structuralism	Wilhelm Wundt, E.B. Titchener	Structure of the mind; introspection
Functionalism	William James	Purpose of mental processes; adaptation
Behaviorism	John B. Watson, B.F. Skinner	Observable behavior; learning through reinforcement and punishment
Cognitivism	Jean Piaget, Ulric Neisser	Mental processes; thinking and interpretation
Psychodynamic	Sigmund Freud	Unconscious mind; early childhood experiences

Additional info: These perspectives continue to influence research, therapy, and applied psychology today.