Faculty Syllabus
PSYC-2301 Introduction to Psychology
Richard Yuen
Credit Fall 2024
Section(s)
PSYC-2301-043 (97793)
LEC MW 9:00am - 10:20am RVS RVSA 2266
Course Requirements
Introduction to Psychology - PSYC 2301
~ course syllabus ~
Instructor Information:
Course Number: PSYC 2301-043 (SYN#97793)
Course Title: Introduction to Psychology
Lecture Time: Mondays and Wednesdays 9:00-10:20AM
Lecture Room: RVS-A 2266
Instructor: Dr. Richard K. Yuen
Office Hours: Immediately after class and by appointment
Phone: 512 921 6797
Email: ryuen@austincc.edu
Course Description:
This course presents the substantive knowledge and methodological contributions within the field of psychology. Students survey the various empirical foundations of psychological research into the conscious and unconscious of the individual. Clinical approaches such as behaviorism, learning theory, motivation, and social adaptation will broaden the student’s understanding of learning, memory, thinking, language, intelligence, perception, and sensation. Upon successful completion of this course, students will have developed critical thinking skills that they can utilize to thrive in today’s fast-paced business environment.
Course Prerequisite: None
Learning Objectives:
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
● Survey the field of psychology and psychological science.
● Compare and contrast the major theoretical viewpoints and research findings for each of the course topics.
● Examine and analyze the basic principles and concepts of psychology as applied to one's everyday life, including but not limited to one's career/field of study.
● Think critically about social science issues and research.
● Communicate and present in a clear and concise manner the basic principles and concepts of psychology as applied to one's everyday life, including but not limited to one's career/field of study.
● Value diversity, creativity, and self-directed learning, particularly with respect to the field of psychology and its application to real world issues and situations.
SCANS:
The U.S. Department of Labor established the Secretary's Commission on Achieving Necessary Skills (SCANS) to examine the demands of the workplace and whether our nation's students are capable of meeting those demands. The Commission determined that today's jobs generally require competencies in the following areas:
A. Resources: Identifies, organizes, plans and allocates resources
B. Interpersonal: Works with others
C. Information: Acquires and uses information
D. Systems: Understands complex interrelationships
E. Technology: Works with a variety of technologies
The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board requires that all degree plans in institutions of higher education incorporate these competencies and identify to the student how these competencies are achieved in course objectives.
This course, Introduction to Psychology, incorporates the SCANS competencies in the following ways:
A. Resources
1. Manages time for completing assignments
2. Uses psychological research publication resources
B. Information
1. Acquires and evaluates information presented in lectures
2. Organizes and maintains information required for passing examinations
3. Utilizes and evaluates an array of sources (e.g. books, periodicals, peer
reviewed journals, information databases, worldwide web) for psychological information and research in order to complete assignments
C. Interpersonal
1. Demonstrates the ability to communicate effectively with others in the class
2. Expresses a strong appreciation for diversity (e.g. ethnic/racial, cultural,
religious, gender, socioeconomic status) in the class
D. Systems
1. Understands how basic social psychological processes work in the classroom
and workplace environments
2. Monitors academic progress and performance of oneself within the class
3. Provide constructive feedback to the instructor and institution in order to
improve methods of teaching and evaluation
E. Technology
1. Acquires the ability to use computer-related research tools to obtain pertinent
psychological research information
2. Utilizes computers to complete psychological research papers and class
presentations
F. Basic Skills
1. Demonstrates the ability to work independently and in groups
2. Gathers and interprets pertinent psychological information via lectures, reading,
class presentations, writing research papers, and so forth
3. Verbalizing effectively and professionally acquired psychological knowledge
through class presentations and class discussions
4. Communicating effectively and professionally acquired psychological
knowledge through written research papers
G. Thinking Skills
1. Demonstrates the ability to identify and prioritize goals in order to complete
class assignments successfully and punctually
2. Applies and analyzes critically basic psychological theory and concepts to real
world issues and situations, including but not limited to their career/field
of study
3. Expresses creative applications of basic psychological theory and concepts to
real world issues and situations, including but not limited to their
career/field of study, during class discussions and written assignments
4. Demonstrates the ability to develop new relationships between basic
psychological theory, concepts, and research
H. Personal Qualities
1. Demonstrates responsibility through daily attendance, completion of
assignments on a timely manner, daily preparation for lecture, and daily
contributions to class discussions
2. Exhibits integrity, honesty, and respect during class discussions and through the completion of course assignments
3. Maintains and expresses self-esteem and self-confidence during class
discussions and class presentations
4. Demonstrates the ability to work and learn autonomously as well as
collaboratively during lectures and class discussions, and via course
assignments
Textbook:
Rathus, Spencer A. (2022). PSYCH7. Cenage Learning: Boston, MA.
ISBN: 9780357432921
Teaching Strategies:
Lecture, transparencies/overheads, handouts, projects, films, and internet activities will be used. Students will use the internet and the library for a short research projects and/or papers on current issued in psychology.
Course Structure:
Classes will consist of lectures, discussions, activities, and films. The lectures will consist of material from your text as well as from external sources. Therefore, reading the assigned material before class will add to your understanding of the material covered in lecture. There will be time during each class to discuss any questions you might have about the assigned chapters. You are responsible for any material discussed in class as well as all additional handouts/readings assigned.
Expectations for Successful Course Completion:
- You are a professional. I expect each student to act professionally, treat everyone in the classroom as professionals (i.e. with respect) and accept no less for him or herself. This includes using professional language, following a professional dress code, and carrying oneself with pride and professionalism.
- I expect you to complete all work as assigned on a timely manner. I reserve the right to deduct points from the grade of each assignment if it is turned in late.
- If you are going to miss class, you are expected to call Austin Community College, call me, or e-mail me that you will be absent. Barring severe circumstances (e.g. documented death, documented medical emergency), no absence will be excused.
- I expect students to follow all Austin Community College policies as noted in your Student Handbook/Calendar.
- I expect a lot from all of my students because I believe you are here to better your lives through education. You are investing a lot of time, effort, and money in bettering yourself. Given this, you deserve the best. Therefore, I will teach this class as if I were teaching at any other prestigious college/university. You should expect no more and no less than this for yourself. And so, I will expect the same from you.
Attendance Policy:
Because you will be responsible for all material covered, it is highly recommended that you attend every lecture. However, I will not be monitoring attendance. If you arrive late to any lecture, I will expect you to sit at the back of the room as to not disturb the rest of the class.
Late Policy:
On exam days, I will enforce a 10-minute rule. If you arrive more than 10 minutes late to class on any exam day, you will not be permitted to take the exam. In addition, there will be no make-up exams, barring extreme circumstances. You will receive 0 points for any exam that you miss. If you notify me in advance of an absence on an exam day, I will arrange for you to take the exam early. No exams will be taken after the scheduled exam date and time.
On days when papers/projects are due, I will also enforce a 10-minute rule. You will be expected to turn in your paper at the beginning of class. I will accept papers/projects up to 10 minutes after the beginning of class. However, early paper/project submissions will be accepted.
Academic Honesty:
Acts prohibited and for which discipline may be administered include scholastic dishonesty, including but not limited to cheating on an exam or quiz, plagiarizing, unauthorized collaboration with another in preparing outside work. Academic work submitted by students shall be the result of their thought, research, or self-expression. Academic work is defined as, but not limited to tests, quizzes, classroom presentations, and homework.
Therefore, all students will be expected to produce their own work. Any student who is caught cheating on an exam and/or plagiarizing reports or writings will receive 0 points for that work and may be failed for the course.
Withdrawals and Incompletes:
Students will be solely responsible for their official registration and withdrawal/drop from the course. Students should consult their student handbook and current academic calendar for these policies, procedures, and deadlines.
Method of Evaluating Students:
Exams: 400 points
Papers: 200 points
In-Class Exercises: 100 points
Exams (400 points / 72 points extra credit possible):
Four exams will be administered. Each exam will be worth 100 points. They will be non-cumulative exams and will cover only new information since the last exam. Each exam will consist of 20 multiple-choice questions and 2 short answer questions. There will be extra credit questions on the exams.
Papers (200 points / 40 points extra credit possible):
Four critical thinking papers will be required. Each paper will be worth 50 points. Each paper/project must be typed. The exact topic and specific requirements for each paper/project will be announced two weeks or more in advance of the due date.
In-Class Writing Exercises (100 points):
Ten in-class writing exercises will be required. Each in-class writing exercise will be worth 10 points. Throughout the semester, at the end of class, I will ask you to reflect upon a specific concept, topic or issue relevant to the lecture material. You will be asked to write a short reaction to the concept, topic or issue, and submit it before leaving class.
Final Grade (700 points):
I will be formulating grades based on only 700 total points out of the 812 actual points that you will be able to earn throughout the course. This means there are 40 extra points that you will be able to earn within the critical thinking paper/project assignments. And there are 72 extra points that you will be able to earn on the exams.
Point System Grade System
Grade Numeric Score Grade Percentage Score
A = 625 – 700 A = 90 – 100%
B = 555 – 624 B = 80 – 89%
C = 485 – 554 C = 70 – 79%
D = 415 – 484 D = 60 – 69%
F = 000 – 414 F = 0 – 59%
Topic Outline:
Week (08/26, 08/28): Chapter 1: What is Psychology?
Chapter 1: Research Methods
Week (09/02): Labor Day Holiday- NO CLASS
Week (09/04): Chapter 1: Research Methods
Week (09/09, 09/11): Chapter 2: Biology & Psychology
Chapter 3: Sensation & Perception
Week (09/16, 09/18): Paper #1 Draft Due
Chapter 3: Sensation & Perception
Chapter 4: Consciousness
Exam Review
Week (09/23, 09/25): Exam #1 (Chapters 1, 2, 3)
Chapter 5: Learning
Week (09/30, 10/02): Chapter 6: Memory
Chapter 7: Thinking, Language & Intelligence
Week (10/07, 10/09): Paper #1 Final Report Due
Chapter 8: Motivation & Emotion
Chapter 9: Life Span
Exam Review
Week (10/14, 10/16): Exam #2 (Chapters 4, 5, 6, 7)
Chapter 9: Life Span
Chapter 10: Personality
Week (10/21, 10/23): Chapter 10: Personality
Chapter 11: Stress, Health & Coping
Week (10/28, 10/30): Paper #2 Draft Due
Chapter 12: Psychological Disorders
Exam Review
Week (11/11, 11/13): Exam #3 (Chapters 8, 9, 10, 11)
Chapter 13: Methods of Therapy
Week (11/18, 11/20): Chapter 14: Social Psychology
Chapter 14: Sex Gender Love
Week (11/25, 11/27): Thanksgiving Holiday
Back From Madness Video !!!Watch on your own this week!!! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ChLICdnmgtM
Week (12/02, 12/04): Exam Review
Exam #4 (Chapter 12, 13, 14)
Paper #2 Final Report Due
Week (12/09, 12/11): Cushion Week *OUR CLASS ONLY*
Readings
Introduction to Psychology - PSYC 2301
~ course syllabus ~
Instructor Information:
Course Number: PSYC 2301-043 (SYN#97793)
Course Title: Introduction to Psychology
Lecture Time: Mondays and Wednesdays 9:00-10:20AM
Lecture Room: RVS-A 2266
Instructor: Dr. Richard K. Yuen
Office Hours: Immediately after class and by appointment
Phone: 512 921 6797
Email: ryuen@austincc.edu
Course Description:
This course presents the substantive knowledge and methodological contributions within the field of psychology. Students survey the various empirical foundations of psychological research into the conscious and unconscious of the individual. Clinical approaches such as behaviorism, learning theory, motivation, and social adaptation will broaden the student’s understanding of learning, memory, thinking, language, intelligence, perception, and sensation. Upon successful completion of this course, students will have developed critical thinking skills that they can utilize to thrive in today’s fast-paced business environment.
Course Prerequisite: None
Learning Objectives:
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
● Survey the field of psychology and psychological science.
● Compare and contrast the major theoretical viewpoints and research findings for each of the course topics.
● Examine and analyze the basic principles and concepts of psychology as applied to one's everyday life, including but not limited to one's career/field of study.
● Think critically about social science issues and research.
● Communicate and present in a clear and concise manner the basic principles and concepts of psychology as applied to one's everyday life, including but not limited to one's career/field of study.
● Value diversity, creativity, and self-directed learning, particularly with respect to the field of psychology and its application to real world issues and situations.
SCANS:
The U.S. Department of Labor established the Secretary's Commission on Achieving Necessary Skills (SCANS) to examine the demands of the workplace and whether our nation's students are capable of meeting those demands. The Commission determined that today's jobs generally require competencies in the following areas:
A. Resources: Identifies, organizes, plans and allocates resources
B. Interpersonal: Works with others
C. Information: Acquires and uses information
D. Systems: Understands complex interrelationships
E. Technology: Works with a variety of technologies
The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board requires that all degree plans in institutions of higher education incorporate these competencies and identify to the student how these competencies are achieved in course objectives.
This course, Introduction to Psychology, incorporates the SCANS competencies in the following ways:
A. Resources
1. Manages time for completing assignments
2. Uses psychological research publication resources
B. Information
1. Acquires and evaluates information presented in lectures
2. Organizes and maintains information required for passing examinations
3. Utilizes and evaluates an array of sources (e.g. books, periodicals, peer
reviewed journals, information databases, worldwide web) for psychological information and research in order to complete assignments
C. Interpersonal
1. Demonstrates the ability to communicate effectively with others in the class
2. Expresses a strong appreciation for diversity (e.g. ethnic/racial, cultural,
religious, gender, socioeconomic status) in the class
D. Systems
1. Understands how basic social psychological processes work in the classroom
and workplace environments
2. Monitors academic progress and performance of oneself within the class
3. Provide constructive feedback to the instructor and institution in order to
improve methods of teaching and evaluation
E. Technology
1. Acquires the ability to use computer-related research tools to obtain pertinent
psychological research information
2. Utilizes computers to complete psychological research papers and class
presentations
F. Basic Skills
1. Demonstrates the ability to work independently and in groups
2. Gathers and interprets pertinent psychological information via lectures, reading,
class presentations, writing research papers, and so forth
3. Verbalizing effectively and professionally acquired psychological knowledge
through class presentations and class discussions
4. Communicating effectively and professionally acquired psychological
knowledge through written research papers
G. Thinking Skills
1. Demonstrates the ability to identify and prioritize goals in order to complete
class assignments successfully and punctually
2. Applies and analyzes critically basic psychological theory and concepts to real
world issues and situations, including but not limited to their career/field
of study
3. Expresses creative applications of basic psychological theory and concepts to
real world issues and situations, including but not limited to their
career/field of study, during class discussions and written assignments
4. Demonstrates the ability to develop new relationships between basic
psychological theory, concepts, and research
H. Personal Qualities
1. Demonstrates responsibility through daily attendance, completion of
assignments on a timely manner, daily preparation for lecture, and daily
contributions to class discussions
2. Exhibits integrity, honesty, and respect during class discussions and through the completion of course assignments
3. Maintains and expresses self-esteem and self-confidence during class
discussions and class presentations
4. Demonstrates the ability to work and learn autonomously as well as
collaboratively during lectures and class discussions, and via course
assignments
Textbook:
Rathus, Spencer A. (2022). PSYCH7. Cenage Learning: Boston, MA.
ISBN: 9780357432921
Teaching Strategies:
Lecture, transparencies/overheads, handouts, projects, films, and internet activities will be used. Students will use the internet and the library for a short research projects and/or papers on current issued in psychology.
Course Structure:
Classes will consist of lectures, discussions, activities, and films. The lectures will consist of material from your text as well as from external sources. Therefore, reading the assigned material before class will add to your understanding of the material covered in lecture. There will be time during each class to discuss any questions you might have about the assigned chapters. You are responsible for any material discussed in class as well as all additional handouts/readings assigned.
Expectations for Successful Course Completion:
- You are a professional. I expect each student to act professionally, treat everyone in the classroom as professionals (i.e. with respect) and accept no less for him or herself. This includes using professional language, following a professional dress code, and carrying oneself with pride and professionalism.
- I expect you to complete all work as assigned on a timely manner. I reserve the right to deduct points from the grade of each assignment if it is turned in late.
- If you are going to miss class, you are expected to call Austin Community College, call me, or e-mail me that you will be absent. Barring severe circumstances (e.g. documented death, documented medical emergency), no absence will be excused.
- I expect students to follow all Austin Community College policies as noted in your Student Handbook/Calendar.
- I expect a lot from all of my students because I believe you are here to better your lives through education. You are investing a lot of time, effort, and money in bettering yourself. Given this, you deserve the best. Therefore, I will teach this class as if I were teaching at any other prestigious college/university. You should expect no more and no less than this for yourself. And so, I will expect the same from you.
Attendance Policy:
Because you will be responsible for all material covered, it is highly recommended that you attend every lecture. However, I will not be monitoring attendance. If you arrive late to any lecture, I will expect you to sit at the back of the room as to not disturb the rest of the class.
Late Policy:
On exam days, I will enforce a 10-minute rule. If you arrive more than 10 minutes late to class on any exam day, you will not be permitted to take the exam. In addition, there will be no make-up exams, barring extreme circumstances. You will receive 0 points for any exam that you miss. If you notify me in advance of an absence on an exam day, I will arrange for you to take the exam early. No exams will be taken after the scheduled exam date and time.
On days when papers/projects are due, I will also enforce a 10-minute rule. You will be expected to turn in your paper at the beginning of class. I will accept papers/projects up to 10 minutes after the beginning of class. However, early paper/project submissions will be accepted.
Academic Honesty:
Acts prohibited and for which discipline may be administered include scholastic dishonesty, including but not limited to cheating on an exam or quiz, plagiarizing, unauthorized collaboration with another in preparing outside work. Academic work submitted by students shall be the result of their thought, research, or self-expression. Academic work is defined as, but not limited to tests, quizzes, classroom presentations, and homework.
Therefore, all students will be expected to produce their own work. Any student who is caught cheating on an exam and/or plagiarizing reports or writings will receive 0 points for that work and may be failed for the course.
Withdrawals and Incompletes:
Students will be solely responsible for their official registration and withdrawal/drop from the course. Students should consult their student handbook and current academic calendar for these policies, procedures, and deadlines.
Method of Evaluating Students:
Exams: 400 points
Papers: 200 points
In-Class Exercises: 100 points
Exams (400 points / 72 points extra credit possible):
Four exams will be administered. Each exam will be worth 100 points. They will be non-cumulative exams and will cover only new information since the last exam. Each exam will consist of 20 multiple-choice questions and 2 short answer questions. There will be extra credit questions on the exams.
Papers (200 points / 40 points extra credit possible):
Four critical thinking papers will be required. Each paper will be worth 50 points. Each paper/project must be typed. The exact topic and specific requirements for each paper/project will be announced two weeks or more in advance of the due date.
In-Class Writing Exercises (100 points):
Ten in-class writing exercises will be required. Each in-class writing exercise will be worth 10 points. Throughout the semester, at the end of class, I will ask you to reflect upon a specific concept, topic or issue relevant to the lecture material. You will be asked to write a short reaction to the concept, topic or issue, and submit it before leaving class.
Final Grade (700 points):
I will be formulating grades based on only 700 total points out of the 812 actual points that you will be able to earn throughout the course. This means there are 40 extra points that you will be able to earn within the critical thinking paper/project assignments. And there are 72 extra points that you will be able to earn on the exams.
Point System Grade System
Grade Numeric Score Grade Percentage Score
A = 625 – 700 A = 90 – 100%
B = 555 – 624 B = 80 – 89%
C = 485 – 554 C = 70 – 79%
D = 415 – 484 D = 60 – 69%
F = 000 – 414 F = 0 – 59%
Topic Outline:
Week (08/26, 08/28): Chapter 1: What is Psychology?
Chapter 1: Research Methods
Week (09/02): Labor Day Holiday- NO CLASS
Week (09/04): Chapter 1: Research Methods
Week (09/09, 09/11): Chapter 2: Biology & Psychology
Chapter 3: Sensation & Perception
Week (09/16, 09/18): Paper #1 Draft Due
Chapter 3: Sensation & Perception
Chapter 4: Consciousness
Exam Review
Week (09/23, 09/25): Exam #1 (Chapters 1, 2, 3)
Chapter 5: Learning
Week (09/30, 10/02): Chapter 6: Memory
Chapter 7: Thinking, Language & Intelligence
Week (10/07, 10/09): Paper #1 Final Report Due
Chapter 8: Motivation & Emotion
Chapter 9: Life Span
Exam Review
Week (10/14, 10/16): Exam #2 (Chapters 4, 5, 6, 7)
Chapter 9: Life Span
Chapter 10: Personality
Week (10/21, 10/23): Chapter 10: Personality
Chapter 11: Stress, Health & Coping
Week (10/28, 10/30): Paper #2 Draft Due
Chapter 12: Psychological Disorders
Exam Review
Week (11/11, 11/13): Exam #3 (Chapters 8, 9, 10, 11)
Chapter 13: Methods of Therapy
Week (11/18, 11/20): Chapter 14: Social Psychology
Chapter 14: Sex Gender Love
Week (11/25, 11/27): Thanksgiving Holiday
Back From Madness Video !!!Watch on your own this week!!! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ChLICdnmgtM
Week (12/02, 12/04): Exam Review
Exam #4 (Chapter 12, 13, 14)
Paper #2 Final Report Due
Week (12/09, 12/11): Cushion Week *OUR CLASS ONLY*
Course Subjects
Introduction to Psychology - PSYC 2301
~ course syllabus ~
Instructor Information:
Course Number: PSYC 2301-043 (SYN#97793)
Course Title: Introduction to Psychology
Lecture Time: Mondays and Wednesdays 9:00-10:20AM
Lecture Room: RVS-A 2266
Instructor: Dr. Richard K. Yuen
Office Hours: Immediately after class and by appointment
Phone: 512 921 6797
Email: ryuen@austincc.edu
Course Description:
This course presents the substantive knowledge and methodological contributions within the field of psychology. Students survey the various empirical foundations of psychological research into the conscious and unconscious of the individual. Clinical approaches such as behaviorism, learning theory, motivation, and social adaptation will broaden the student’s understanding of learning, memory, thinking, language, intelligence, perception, and sensation. Upon successful completion of this course, students will have developed critical thinking skills that they can utilize to thrive in today’s fast-paced business environment.
Course Prerequisite: None
Learning Objectives:
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
● Survey the field of psychology and psychological science.
● Compare and contrast the major theoretical viewpoints and research findings for each of the course topics.
● Examine and analyze the basic principles and concepts of psychology as applied to one's everyday life, including but not limited to one's career/field of study.
● Think critically about social science issues and research.
● Communicate and present in a clear and concise manner the basic principles and concepts of psychology as applied to one's everyday life, including but not limited to one's career/field of study.
● Value diversity, creativity, and self-directed learning, particularly with respect to the field of psychology and its application to real world issues and situations.
SCANS:
The U.S. Department of Labor established the Secretary's Commission on Achieving Necessary Skills (SCANS) to examine the demands of the workplace and whether our nation's students are capable of meeting those demands. The Commission determined that today's jobs generally require competencies in the following areas:
A. Resources: Identifies, organizes, plans and allocates resources
B. Interpersonal: Works with others
C. Information: Acquires and uses information
D. Systems: Understands complex interrelationships
E. Technology: Works with a variety of technologies
The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board requires that all degree plans in institutions of higher education incorporate these competencies and identify to the student how these competencies are achieved in course objectives.
This course, Introduction to Psychology, incorporates the SCANS competencies in the following ways:
A. Resources
1. Manages time for completing assignments
2. Uses psychological research publication resources
B. Information
1. Acquires and evaluates information presented in lectures
2. Organizes and maintains information required for passing examinations
3. Utilizes and evaluates an array of sources (e.g. books, periodicals, peer
reviewed journals, information databases, worldwide web) for psychological information and research in order to complete assignments
C. Interpersonal
1. Demonstrates the ability to communicate effectively with others in the class
2. Expresses a strong appreciation for diversity (e.g. ethnic/racial, cultural,
religious, gender, socioeconomic status) in the class
D. Systems
1. Understands how basic social psychological processes work in the classroom
and workplace environments
2. Monitors academic progress and performance of oneself within the class
3. Provide constructive feedback to the instructor and institution in order to
improve methods of teaching and evaluation
E. Technology
1. Acquires the ability to use computer-related research tools to obtain pertinent
psychological research information
2. Utilizes computers to complete psychological research papers and class
presentations
F. Basic Skills
1. Demonstrates the ability to work independently and in groups
2. Gathers and interprets pertinent psychological information via lectures, reading,
class presentations, writing research papers, and so forth
3. Verbalizing effectively and professionally acquired psychological knowledge
through class presentations and class discussions
4. Communicating effectively and professionally acquired psychological
knowledge through written research papers
G. Thinking Skills
1. Demonstrates the ability to identify and prioritize goals in order to complete
class assignments successfully and punctually
2. Applies and analyzes critically basic psychological theory and concepts to real
world issues and situations, including but not limited to their career/field
of study
3. Expresses creative applications of basic psychological theory and concepts to
real world issues and situations, including but not limited to their
career/field of study, during class discussions and written assignments
4. Demonstrates the ability to develop new relationships between basic
psychological theory, concepts, and research
H. Personal Qualities
1. Demonstrates responsibility through daily attendance, completion of
assignments on a timely manner, daily preparation for lecture, and daily
contributions to class discussions
2. Exhibits integrity, honesty, and respect during class discussions and through the completion of course assignments
3. Maintains and expresses self-esteem and self-confidence during class
discussions and class presentations
4. Demonstrates the ability to work and learn autonomously as well as
collaboratively during lectures and class discussions, and via course
assignments
Textbook:
Rathus, Spencer A. (2022). PSYCH7. Cenage Learning: Boston, MA.
ISBN: 9780357432921
Teaching Strategies:
Lecture, transparencies/overheads, handouts, projects, films, and internet activities will be used. Students will use the internet and the library for a short research projects and/or papers on current issued in psychology.
Course Structure:
Classes will consist of lectures, discussions, activities, and films. The lectures will consist of material from your text as well as from external sources. Therefore, reading the assigned material before class will add to your understanding of the material covered in lecture. There will be time during each class to discuss any questions you might have about the assigned chapters. You are responsible for any material discussed in class as well as all additional handouts/readings assigned.
Expectations for Successful Course Completion:
- You are a professional. I expect each student to act professionally, treat everyone in the classroom as professionals (i.e. with respect) and accept no less for him or herself. This includes using professional language, following a professional dress code, and carrying oneself with pride and professionalism.
- I expect you to complete all work as assigned on a timely manner. I reserve the right to deduct points from the grade of each assignment if it is turned in late.
- If you are going to miss class, you are expected to call Austin Community College, call me, or e-mail me that you will be absent. Barring severe circumstances (e.g. documented death, documented medical emergency), no absence will be excused.
- I expect students to follow all Austin Community College policies as noted in your Student Handbook/Calendar.
- I expect a lot from all of my students because I believe you are here to better your lives through education. You are investing a lot of time, effort, and money in bettering yourself. Given this, you deserve the best. Therefore, I will teach this class as if I were teaching at any other prestigious college/university. You should expect no more and no less than this for yourself. And so, I will expect the same from you.
Attendance Policy:
Because you will be responsible for all material covered, it is highly recommended that you attend every lecture. However, I will not be monitoring attendance. If you arrive late to any lecture, I will expect you to sit at the back of the room as to not disturb the rest of the class.
Late Policy:
On exam days, I will enforce a 10-minute rule. If you arrive more than 10 minutes late to class on any exam day, you will not be permitted to take the exam. In addition, there will be no make-up exams, barring extreme circumstances. You will receive 0 points for any exam that you miss. If you notify me in advance of an absence on an exam day, I will arrange for you to take the exam early. No exams will be taken after the scheduled exam date and time.
On days when papers/projects are due, I will also enforce a 10-minute rule. You will be expected to turn in your paper at the beginning of class. I will accept papers/projects up to 10 minutes after the beginning of class. However, early paper/project submissions will be accepted.
Academic Honesty:
Acts prohibited and for which discipline may be administered include scholastic dishonesty, including but not limited to cheating on an exam or quiz, plagiarizing, unauthorized collaboration with another in preparing outside work. Academic work submitted by students shall be the result of their thought, research, or self-expression. Academic work is defined as, but not limited to tests, quizzes, classroom presentations, and homework.
Therefore, all students will be expected to produce their own work. Any student who is caught cheating on an exam and/or plagiarizing reports or writings will receive 0 points for that work and may be failed for the course.
Withdrawals and Incompletes:
Students will be solely responsible for their official registration and withdrawal/drop from the course. Students should consult their student handbook and current academic calendar for these policies, procedures, and deadlines.
Method of Evaluating Students:
Exams: 400 points
Papers: 200 points
In-Class Exercises: 100 points
Exams (400 points / 72 points extra credit possible):
Four exams will be administered. Each exam will be worth 100 points. They will be non-cumulative exams and will cover only new information since the last exam. Each exam will consist of 20 multiple-choice questions and 2 short answer questions. There will be extra credit questions on the exams.
Papers (200 points / 40 points extra credit possible):
Four critical thinking papers will be required. Each paper will be worth 50 points. Each paper/project must be typed. The exact topic and specific requirements for each paper/project will be announced two weeks or more in advance of the due date.
In-Class Writing Exercises (100 points):
Ten in-class writing exercises will be required. Each in-class writing exercise will be worth 10 points. Throughout the semester, at the end of class, I will ask you to reflect upon a specific concept, topic or issue relevant to the lecture material. You will be asked to write a short reaction to the concept, topic or issue, and submit it before leaving class.
Final Grade (700 points):
I will be formulating grades based on only 700 total points out of the 812 actual points that you will be able to earn throughout the course. This means there are 40 extra points that you will be able to earn within the critical thinking paper/project assignments. And there are 72 extra points that you will be able to earn on the exams.
Point System Grade System
Grade Numeric Score Grade Percentage Score
A = 625 – 700 A = 90 – 100%
B = 555 – 624 B = 80 – 89%
C = 485 – 554 C = 70 – 79%
D = 415 – 484 D = 60 – 69%
F = 000 – 414 F = 0 – 59%
Topic Outline:
Week (08/26, 08/28): Chapter 1: What is Psychology?
Chapter 1: Research Methods
Week (09/02): Labor Day Holiday- NO CLASS
Week (09/04): Chapter 1: Research Methods
Week (09/09, 09/11): Chapter 2: Biology & Psychology
Chapter 3: Sensation & Perception
Week (09/16, 09/18): Paper #1 Draft Due
Chapter 3: Sensation & Perception
Chapter 4: Consciousness
Exam Review
Week (09/23, 09/25): Exam #1 (Chapters 1, 2, 3)
Chapter 5: Learning
Week (09/30, 10/02): Chapter 6: Memory
Chapter 7: Thinking, Language & Intelligence
Week (10/07, 10/09): Paper #1 Final Report Due
Chapter 8: Motivation & Emotion
Chapter 9: Life Span
Exam Review
Week (10/14, 10/16): Exam #2 (Chapters 4, 5, 6, 7)
Chapter 9: Life Span
Chapter 10: Personality
Week (10/21, 10/23): Chapter 10: Personality
Chapter 11: Stress, Health & Coping
Week (10/28, 10/30): Paper #2 Draft Due
Chapter 12: Psychological Disorders
Exam Review
Week (11/11, 11/13): Exam #3 (Chapters 8, 9, 10, 11)
Chapter 13: Methods of Therapy
Week (11/18, 11/20): Chapter 14: Social Psychology
Chapter 14: Sex Gender Love
Week (11/25, 11/27): Thanksgiving Holiday
Back From Madness Video !!!Watch on your own this week!!! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ChLICdnmgtM
Week (12/02, 12/04): Exam Review
Exam #4 (Chapter 12, 13, 14)
Paper #2 Final Report Due
Week (12/09, 12/11): Cushion Week *OUR CLASS ONLY*
Student Learning Outcomes/Learning Objectives
Introduction to Psychology - PSYC 2301
~ course syllabus ~
Instructor Information:
Course Number: PSYC 2301-043 (SYN#97793)
Course Title: Introduction to Psychology
Lecture Time: Mondays and Wednesdays 9:00-10:20AM
Lecture Room: RVS-A 2266
Instructor: Dr. Richard K. Yuen
Office Hours: Immediately after class and by appointment
Phone: 512 921 6797
Email: ryuen@austincc.edu
Course Description:
This course presents the substantive knowledge and methodological contributions within the field of psychology. Students survey the various empirical foundations of psychological research into the conscious and unconscious of the individual. Clinical approaches such as behaviorism, learning theory, motivation, and social adaptation will broaden the student’s understanding of learning, memory, thinking, language, intelligence, perception, and sensation. Upon successful completion of this course, students will have developed critical thinking skills that they can utilize to thrive in today’s fast-paced business environment.
Course Prerequisite: None
Learning Objectives:
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
● Survey the field of psychology and psychological science.
● Compare and contrast the major theoretical viewpoints and research findings for each of the course topics.
● Examine and analyze the basic principles and concepts of psychology as applied to one's everyday life, including but not limited to one's career/field of study.
● Think critically about social science issues and research.
● Communicate and present in a clear and concise manner the basic principles and concepts of psychology as applied to one's everyday life, including but not limited to one's career/field of study.
● Value diversity, creativity, and self-directed learning, particularly with respect to the field of psychology and its application to real world issues and situations.
SCANS:
The U.S. Department of Labor established the Secretary's Commission on Achieving Necessary Skills (SCANS) to examine the demands of the workplace and whether our nation's students are capable of meeting those demands. The Commission determined that today's jobs generally require competencies in the following areas:
A. Resources: Identifies, organizes, plans and allocates resources
B. Interpersonal: Works with others
C. Information: Acquires and uses information
D. Systems: Understands complex interrelationships
E. Technology: Works with a variety of technologies
The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board requires that all degree plans in institutions of higher education incorporate these competencies and identify to the student how these competencies are achieved in course objectives.
This course, Introduction to Psychology, incorporates the SCANS competencies in the following ways:
A. Resources
1. Manages time for completing assignments
2. Uses psychological research publication resources
B. Information
1. Acquires and evaluates information presented in lectures
2. Organizes and maintains information required for passing examinations
3. Utilizes and evaluates an array of sources (e.g. books, periodicals, peer
reviewed journals, information databases, worldwide web) for psychological information and research in order to complete assignments
C. Interpersonal
1. Demonstrates the ability to communicate effectively with others in the class
2. Expresses a strong appreciation for diversity (e.g. ethnic/racial, cultural,
religious, gender, socioeconomic status) in the class
D. Systems
1. Understands how basic social psychological processes work in the classroom
and workplace environments
2. Monitors academic progress and performance of oneself within the class
3. Provide constructive feedback to the instructor and institution in order to
improve methods of teaching and evaluation
E. Technology
1. Acquires the ability to use computer-related research tools to obtain pertinent
psychological research information
2. Utilizes computers to complete psychological research papers and class
presentations
F. Basic Skills
1. Demonstrates the ability to work independently and in groups
2. Gathers and interprets pertinent psychological information via lectures, reading,
class presentations, writing research papers, and so forth
3. Verbalizing effectively and professionally acquired psychological knowledge
through class presentations and class discussions
4. Communicating effectively and professionally acquired psychological
knowledge through written research papers
G. Thinking Skills
1. Demonstrates the ability to identify and prioritize goals in order to complete
class assignments successfully and punctually
2. Applies and analyzes critically basic psychological theory and concepts to real
world issues and situations, including but not limited to their career/field
of study
3. Expresses creative applications of basic psychological theory and concepts to
real world issues and situations, including but not limited to their
career/field of study, during class discussions and written assignments
4. Demonstrates the ability to develop new relationships between basic
psychological theory, concepts, and research
H. Personal Qualities
1. Demonstrates responsibility through daily attendance, completion of
assignments on a timely manner, daily preparation for lecture, and daily
contributions to class discussions
2. Exhibits integrity, honesty, and respect during class discussions and through the completion of course assignments
3. Maintains and expresses self-esteem and self-confidence during class
discussions and class presentations
4. Demonstrates the ability to work and learn autonomously as well as
collaboratively during lectures and class discussions, and via course
assignments
Textbook:
Rathus, Spencer A. (2022). PSYCH7. Cenage Learning: Boston, MA.
ISBN: 9780357432921
Teaching Strategies:
Lecture, transparencies/overheads, handouts, projects, films, and internet activities will be used. Students will use the internet and the library for a short research projects and/or papers on current issued in psychology.
Course Structure:
Classes will consist of lectures, discussions, activities, and films. The lectures will consist of material from your text as well as from external sources. Therefore, reading the assigned material before class will add to your understanding of the material covered in lecture. There will be time during each class to discuss any questions you might have about the assigned chapters. You are responsible for any material discussed in class as well as all additional handouts/readings assigned.
Expectations for Successful Course Completion:
- You are a professional. I expect each student to act professionally, treat everyone in the classroom as professionals (i.e. with respect) and accept no less for him or herself. This includes using professional language, following a professional dress code, and carrying oneself with pride and professionalism.
- I expect you to complete all work as assigned on a timely manner. I reserve the right to deduct points from the grade of each assignment if it is turned in late.
- If you are going to miss class, you are expected to call Austin Community College, call me, or e-mail me that you will be absent. Barring severe circumstances (e.g. documented death, documented medical emergency), no absence will be excused.
- I expect students to follow all Austin Community College policies as noted in your Student Handbook/Calendar.
- I expect a lot from all of my students because I believe you are here to better your lives through education. You are investing a lot of time, effort, and money in bettering yourself. Given this, you deserve the best. Therefore, I will teach this class as if I were teaching at any other prestigious college/university. You should expect no more and no less than this for yourself. And so, I will expect the same from you.
Attendance Policy:
Because you will be responsible for all material covered, it is highly recommended that you attend every lecture. However, I will not be monitoring attendance. If you arrive late to any lecture, I will expect you to sit at the back of the room as to not disturb the rest of the class.
Late Policy:
On exam days, I will enforce a 10-minute rule. If you arrive more than 10 minutes late to class on any exam day, you will not be permitted to take the exam. In addition, there will be no make-up exams, barring extreme circumstances. You will receive 0 points for any exam that you miss. If you notify me in advance of an absence on an exam day, I will arrange for you to take the exam early. No exams will be taken after the scheduled exam date and time.
On days when papers/projects are due, I will also enforce a 10-minute rule. You will be expected to turn in your paper at the beginning of class. I will accept papers/projects up to 10 minutes after the beginning of class. However, early paper/project submissions will be accepted.
Academic Honesty:
Acts prohibited and for which discipline may be administered include scholastic dishonesty, including but not limited to cheating on an exam or quiz, plagiarizing, unauthorized collaboration with another in preparing outside work. Academic work submitted by students shall be the result of their thought, research, or self-expression. Academic work is defined as, but not limited to tests, quizzes, classroom presentations, and homework.
Therefore, all students will be expected to produce their own work. Any student who is caught cheating on an exam and/or plagiarizing reports or writings will receive 0 points for that work and may be failed for the course.
Withdrawals and Incompletes:
Students will be solely responsible for their official registration and withdrawal/drop from the course. Students should consult their student handbook and current academic calendar for these policies, procedures, and deadlines.
Method of Evaluating Students:
Exams: 400 points
Papers: 200 points
In-Class Exercises: 100 points
Exams (400 points / 72 points extra credit possible):
Four exams will be administered. Each exam will be worth 100 points. They will be non-cumulative exams and will cover only new information since the last exam. Each exam will consist of 20 multiple-choice questions and 2 short answer questions. There will be extra credit questions on the exams.
Papers (200 points / 40 points extra credit possible):
Four critical thinking papers will be required. Each paper will be worth 50 points. Each paper/project must be typed. The exact topic and specific requirements for each paper/project will be announced two weeks or more in advance of the due date.
In-Class Writing Exercises (100 points):
Ten in-class writing exercises will be required. Each in-class writing exercise will be worth 10 points. Throughout the semester, at the end of class, I will ask you to reflect upon a specific concept, topic or issue relevant to the lecture material. You will be asked to write a short reaction to the concept, topic or issue, and submit it before leaving class.
Final Grade (700 points):
I will be formulating grades based on only 700 total points out of the 812 actual points that you will be able to earn throughout the course. This means there are 40 extra points that you will be able to earn within the critical thinking paper/project assignments. And there are 72 extra points that you will be able to earn on the exams.
Point System Grade System
Grade Numeric Score Grade Percentage Score
A = 625 – 700 A = 90 – 100%
B = 555 – 624 B = 80 – 89%
C = 485 – 554 C = 70 – 79%
D = 415 – 484 D = 60 – 69%
F = 000 – 414 F = 0 – 59%
Topic Outline:
Week (08/26, 08/28): Chapter 1: What is Psychology?
Chapter 1: Research Methods
Week (09/02): Labor Day Holiday- NO CLASS
Week (09/04): Chapter 1: Research Methods
Week (09/09, 09/11): Chapter 2: Biology & Psychology
Chapter 3: Sensation & Perception
Week (09/16, 09/18): Paper #1 Draft Due
Chapter 3: Sensation & Perception
Chapter 4: Consciousness
Exam Review
Week (09/23, 09/25): Exam #1 (Chapters 1, 2, 3)
Chapter 5: Learning
Week (09/30, 10/02): Chapter 6: Memory
Chapter 7: Thinking, Language & Intelligence
Week (10/07, 10/09): Paper #1 Final Report Due
Chapter 8: Motivation & Emotion
Chapter 9: Life Span
Exam Review
Week (10/14, 10/16): Exam #2 (Chapters 4, 5, 6, 7)
Chapter 9: Life Span
Chapter 10: Personality
Week (10/21, 10/23): Chapter 10: Personality
Chapter 11: Stress, Health & Coping
Week (10/28, 10/30): Paper #2 Draft Due
Chapter 12: Psychological Disorders
Exam Review
Week (11/11, 11/13): Exam #3 (Chapters 8, 9, 10, 11)
Chapter 13: Methods of Therapy
Week (11/18, 11/20): Chapter 14: Social Psychology
Chapter 14: Sex Gender Love
Week (11/25, 11/27): Thanksgiving Holiday
Back From Madness Video !!!Watch on your own this week!!! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ChLICdnmgtM
Week (12/02, 12/04): Exam Review
Exam #4 (Chapter 12, 13, 14)
Paper #2 Final Report Due
Week (12/09, 12/11): Cushion Week *OUR CLASS ONLY*
Office Hours
M W 10:20 AM - 11:00 AM RVS Adjunct Offices
NOTE Office hours are immediately after class or by appointment.Published: 08/21/2024 09:45:54