PS 401 Summer 2000  Requirements

Text:

Connections in the History and Systems of Psychology  Thorne & Henley (1997)

Additional readings are available as hyperlinks.

Class Protocol:

Class will be a combination of lecture and discussion. For this to be effective it is absolutely essential that you complete the assigned readings and come to class prepared to discuss them or ask questions about them. To this end, for (almost) every reading assignment I will provide you with study questions. These questions are designed to help you hone in on the central issues, and will focus both on material in the text and material from lectures. Occasionally we will work on these questions in groups during class—this presupposes that you have already read the material!! These study questions will be excellent guides for preparing for exams.

In addition to the text, readings will be found on the web pages associated with each unit.  These readings provide both background information and access to original works by well known psychologist.  Some of these readings will be assigned as homework.  Others are available for your to peruse for your own interest.

During the course you will have the option of doing additional readings for extra credit. You may select up to five articles written by psychologists (and not required reading for everyone), read the article, and write a clear and thoughtful summary of it. These summaries are worth 1 point each, which is added to your final grade at the end of the course (e.g., if your final grade is 87 and you have done 4 extra credit summaries, you would end up with a 91-an A- rather than a B).  You may earn a maximum of 5 extra credit points.

To better acquaint you with primary source material in psychology you will be asked to select a book that is considered to be a classic or important work in the field.  After reading these books, you will write critical reviews of each. Details provided in link below.

Book Review    

There will be 3 in-class exams. If you must miss an exam because of illness or emergency, you must obtain written permission from the Dean of Students prior to the time of the exam, and you must notify me (by phone, e-mail, or in person). Make-up exams will be given at a mutually convenient time and place.

Attendance at every class is expected. Please come to class on time, and try to avoid leaving the room during class.  Comings and goings during class are disruptive for everyone.

Course Outline and Schedule

The course is divided into topical units and readings are given for each unit.  A list of these units and links to them are given on the schedule.  Readings will include selections from your text, articles and chapters placed on reserve in the library (marked * ), and selected web sites. Additional readings may be added as the course progresses.

Grades

Exams                                      80%                 

Book review                             20%

Updated May 11, 2000