Introduction to Psychology

PSY 2513                  

Email Address:   priscillas@blackrivertech.org 

Website: http://faculty.blackrivertech.org/pstillwell

Priscilla Stillwell, Instructor,

Office: AD 150     Phone: 870-248-4000 (Office-Pocahontas) ext. 4143

Spring, 2007                           *9:30 - 10:45 a.m. MW

Office Hours:     

 Text:

Nevid, J. S. (2006). Essentials of Psychology; Concepts and Applications.   Boston: Houghton Mifflin Company.

Course Objectives:

The primary objective of all introductory psychology courses is to improve student learning by exploring the subject matter of the field and allowing the students to become familiar with the vocabulary and concepts of the field and with some of the research findings upon which our knowledge of human thought and behavior is based.

A goal of this class is to emphasize development of critical thinking skills and to prepare you to be a cautious and analytical consumer of information that is proclaimed scientific or based on research.

I also hope that you will derive personal benefits from the class; that at the end of the term you will have increased your understanding and acceptance of yourself and others; and that you will gain something from this class that will enrich your personal relationships and add to your success in your chosen occupation.

Course Requirements:

There are four regularly scheduled tests. The final will not be comprehensive. Students are expected to write two article reviews.  Students will be expected to complete the questions that are on Blackboard and make at least 3 responses per question that are relevant and clearly answer the question.

Tests:

There will be 50 multiple-choice items on each of the four required tests.  The test items will be taken primarily from the reading assignments, but you can expect some test questions based on lectures, films, or any class activity.  The tests are worth 100 points each.  To get the best use of your study guide, read each chapter thoroughly and complete the questions in the study guide.  The questions in the study guide contain the information you will need to complete the test successfully.  Please note that all questions on the tests are application questions.  The study guides appear in Blackboard.

Papers:

Two one-page reviews are to be written and submitted during the term.  These reviews will come from psychological journal articles from the library data system.  A list of acceptable journals will be provided.  A day has been set aside in the syllabus to discuss the library system.  An example of format for the paper will be provided on the day of that visit.  Each review is worth 50 points.  The articles and the directions for written assignments can be found on blackboard.  Due dates are listed below.  

Blackboard Discussion Questions:

I will place you in the blackboard system.  In order to access it go to:

http://blackboard.blackrivertech.org 

Once there, click on Login.  Then type in your username.  Your username is your first name(.) last name.

Example: priscilla.stillwell

Your username is the last four digits of your social security number and your birth date.  

Example: 22225784   {2222=last for digits of SS#, 5784=birthdate}

This is the location where you may find your grades, the syllabus, paper requirement information and study guides.  

This is also the location where you can find the topic Discussion Board listed on the left.  There you will find 12 separate sections.  One section is for questions or problems that you would like me to address. If the nature of your discussion is private, please phone me or come by my office.   One section is for student use in case you have questions among yourselves.  I will not be reading this, so do not ask me questions there.  The last 10 sections are specific questions related to topics within the chapters.  Each section is worth 10 points and in order to get those points:

You must post three substantial messages to each question and provide detail. Grammar and mechanics will also be included in the evaluation of these assignments. Better grades will go to those who read his/her classmates’ answers and responds to them. I will be looking for the following answers that:

a.       bring up relevant questions and new ideas

b.       clearly answer the question

c.       clarify a point

d.       use a personal story/situation that illustrates a point

If it seems I am trying to force you to communicate, congratulations, you have indeed understood.  Experience has taught me that individuals who do not communicate are often confused about assignments, misunderstand the requirements of the course, and do not take responsibility for their own learning. 

Attendance Requirements:

Attendance will be taken periodically during the term.  Ten attendance grades will be taken for a total of 100 points.  This can help you--don't miss class!

Academic Dishonesty

Plagiarism, cheating, and other forms of academic dishonesty are prohibited.  In addition to other possible disciplinary sanctions that may be imposed through institutional procedures as a result of academic misconduct, instructors have the authority to assign an "F" for the exercises or examination or to assign an "F" for the course.

 Grading Scale:

Note 1: You are expected to establish personal access to the Internet and to communicate with me via email if necessary.

Note 2: If you have a documented disabling condition, you are expected to meet with me as soon as possible to arrange appropriate modifications.  If you have a disabling condition that has not been documented by the Office of Disability Services, you must complete the appropriate documentation before requesting modifications.

Note 3: This syllabus is intended as a guide for the course and is subject to changes as situations warrant at the discretion of the instructor.

Make-up Policy:  ONLY ONE MAKE-UP EXAM WILL BE ALLOWED.   TESTS MUST BE MADE UP WITHIN ONE WEEK OF THE MISSED TEST DATE. TESTS MISSED AFTERWARDS WILL RESULT IN A ZERO.  REVIEWS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED LATE!

Class Schedule: 

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