BackSocial Psychology Course Syllabus and Study Guide
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Social Psychology
Course Overview
Social psychology is the scientific study of how individuals think, feel, and behave in social contexts. This course explores major perspectives and research in social psychology, focusing on how people are influenced by others and the social environment.
Definition: Social psychology examines the ways in which social interactions, group dynamics, and cultural factors shape individual behavior and thought.
Applications: Understanding prejudice, conformity, aggression, interpersonal attraction, and applied social psychology.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
Explain the major concepts and theories in social psychology.
Critically evaluate research in social psychology.
Apply social psychological principles to understanding behavior in various contexts.
Analyze the role of social influence, such as conformity, obedience, and persuasion.
Identify and explain factors that influence interpersonal behavior and group dynamics.
Discuss the development and impact of attitudes, prejudice, and discrimination.
Describe processes involved in relationship formation and maintenance, including attraction and aggression.
Course Content
Main Topics
Social psychology theories
Interpersonal attraction
Personal behavior
Applied psychology research
Social cognition
Social perception
Perception of self
Attitudes
Prejudice
Aggression
Group processes
Required Readings
Textbook: Aronson, E., Wilson, T., Fehr, B., & Akert, R. (2022). Social Psychology (7th ed.). Canadian Pearson Canada Inc.
Assessment Overview
Assessment | Due Date | Weight of Final Mark |
|---|---|---|
Test 1 | Week 7 & 8 | 30% |
Assignment | Week 7 & 11 | 30% |
Final Exam | Week 14 | 40% |
Semester Schedule
Week | Topic | Assessment | Due | Readings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Course Overview, Intro to Social Psychology & Social Cognition | 1, 2, 4, 5 | ||
2 | Social Perception | 3, 4 | ||
3 | Self | 1, 2, 5 | ||
4 | Test | Test 1 | In class | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 |
5 | Attitudes | 6 | ||
6 | Family Day - No Class | |||
7 | Prejudice | Assignment 1 | Feb 19 | 7, 11, 12 |
8 | Group Processes | Test 2 | In class | 8, 9, 10 |
9 | Aggression | 13 | ||
10 | Presentations | 1-13 | ||
11 | Presentations | Assignment 2 | Mar 25 | 1-13 |
12 | Social Influence | 1-13 | ||
13 | Social Influence | 1-13 | ||
14 | Final Exam | Final Exam | In class | 1-13 |
General Policies and Expectations
Complete weekly reading assignments before class.
Know when assignments are due and when tests take place.
Adhere to weekly course obligations and participate in class activities.
Use Blackboard regularly for course updates and communication.
Manage your time and workload effectively.
Ask questions whenever needed.
Take responsibility for missed material due to absence.
Academic Integrity
Plagiarism, cheating, and academic dishonesty are strictly prohibited and will result in disciplinary action.
All assignments must be original and properly referenced using APA style.
Use of Artificial Intelligence
AI tools may be used if they align with academic integrity policies and are properly cited.
Course Support
Feedback will be provided within two weeks of assignment submission.
Lectures will cover theoretical content and practical applications.
Students are encouraged to participate actively and seek clarification when needed.
Important Notes
Attendance and participation are crucial for success.
Students should check their Georgian email regularly for updates.
Special needs accommodations are available through the college.
Key Terms and Concepts
Social Cognition: The study of how people process, store, and apply information about others and social situations.
Social Perception: How individuals form impressions and make judgments about others.
Attitudes: Evaluations of people, objects, and ideas that influence behavior.
Prejudice: Preconceived opinions or attitudes about a group not based on reason or experience.
Group Processes: The ways in which group membership influences individual behavior and decision-making.
Aggression: Behaviors intended to harm another person physically or psychologically.
Social Influence: The effects of others on an individual's attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors.
Example: Social Influence
Conformity: Adjusting one's behavior or thinking to match those of a group.
Obedience: Following direct orders from an authority figure.
Persuasion: Efforts to change attitudes or behaviors through communication.
Additional info: This syllabus provides a comprehensive overview of the Social Psychology course, including topics, assessments, policies, and expectations. Students are encouraged to use this guide for effective exam preparation and course success.
