Jeffrey A. Schaler, Ph.D.

Johns Hopkins University
Peabody Conservatory of Music
Fall 2003

290.111 - INTRODUCTION TO PSYCHOLOGY

Mondays and Wednesdays 8:00 - 9:20 A.M.
Room: 114 LH (Lincoln Hall)
Faculty: Dr. Jeffrey A. Schaler
jeffschaler@attglobal.net
http://www.schaler.net
Office hours by appointment:
Telephone (301) 585-5664

Course Description
An introduction to the fields and research methods of contemporary psychology, including such topics as biological and social bases of behavior, human development, perception, memory, learning theory, intelligence, and abnormal behavior. Lecture and discussion format.

Course Objectives
1. To familiarize students with current theoretical terms and concepts in the psychology field, the methods used to research these concepts, and the applications of the concepts in clinical and educational settings.
2. To develop observational skill in self-observation and the observation of others.
3. To develop objective and critical evaluations of psychological theories and their applications from a philosophical point of view.
4. To develop an understanding and awareness of psychological problems, contemporary theories regarding their etiology, and treatment approaches.


Required Text: Lahey, Benjamin B., (2003) Psychology: An introduction eighth edition. McGraw Hill. Use the accompanying study guide.

Course Requirements and Grades
Examination #1 20%
Examination #2 20%
Examination #3 20%
Final examination 40%
Total: 100%

--> Material discussed in class, and not in any of the readings, may form the basis for questions on the examinations. One grade reduction for over four absences. Sign in at each class. Students are responsible for anything covered in class during their absence, including material presented in films. Readings must be completed by the session to which they are assigned. If Dr. Schaler is absent, please complete the pre-identified assignment, or start the film/video which is available in your classroom. Expect that material on films will be on the examinations.

CLASS SCHEDULE

September 8         Chapter 1                   What is Psychology?
                    Chapter 2                   Research Methods in psychology
September 10        Appendix                    Measurement, Research Design and Statistics p. 681 A-1 to A-12
September 15        Appendix                    Measurement, Research Design and Statistics p. 681 A-1 to A-12
September 17        Chapter 3                   Biological  Foundations of Behavior
September 22        Chapter 3                   Biological Foundations of Behavior
September 24        Chapter 4                   Sensation and Perception (pp. 143-157 only)
September 29        Chapter 5                   States of Consciousness
October 1           Chapter 6                   Basic Principles of Learning
October 6           Chapter 6                   Basic Principles of Learning
October 8           First examination           Chapters 1-6 + Appendix
October 13          Mid-term holiday, no class
October 15          Chapter 7                   Memory
October 20          Chapter 8                   Cognition, Language and Intelligence (Don't read pp. 285-291 on language).
October 22          Chapter 9                   Developmental Psychology
October 27          Chapter 9                   Developmental Psychology
October 29          Chapter 10                  Motivation and Emotion
November 3          Second examination          Chapters 7--10
November 5          Chapter 11                  Gender and Sexuality
November 10         Chapter 12                  Personality Theories and Assessment
November 12         Chapter 13                  Stress and Health
November 17         Third examination           Chapters 11 - 13
November 19         Chapter 14                  Abnormal Behavior
November 24         Chapter 14                  Abnormal Behavior
November 26         No class--Thanksgiving holiday        
December 1          Chapter 15                  Therapies
December 3          Chapter 15                  Therapies
                    Chapter 16                  Social Psychology
December 8          Chapter 16                  Social Psychology
December 10         Review--Last class
December 16-18      Final examination           (Cumulative, Not Chapter 17)
Date of final exam to be announced in class, most likely December 17

Date of final exam to be announced in class - Most likely December 17.
You must take the exams on the dates they are assigned.  This is an early class.  Don't be late!  

You will be sent material and announcements via email.  Make sure you read your email!

Peabody statement regarding disability:  "If you are a student with a disability or 
believe you might have a disability that requires accommodations, please contact 
Dr. Eileen Soskin, Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, the Peabody Conservatory of the Johns Hopkins 
University at 410-659-8100, extension 4405 esoskin@peabody.jh.edu, or Ms. Peggy Hayeslip, University 
Coordinator of Disability Services at 410-516-6224 phayeslip@jhu.edu to discuss reasonable 
and appropriate accommodations."













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