Psychology 110 |
Course Outline |
Camosun College |
Instructor: Dr. R. G. Tonks |
Fall 2013 |
Office: Fisher 308B |
e-mail: through d2l | Phone: 370-3308 |
Office Hours: M/ W 10:30-11:20
Course Description:
This course presents
experimental methodologies used in psychology including how data is collected,
organized, and interpreted in psychological research. Topics: psychobiology,
sensation, perception, cognition, learning theory, memory, assessment,
and experimental design. Topics will be discussed and demonstrated in lecture
and laboratory activities. Math 10 is highly recommended and Math 11 is
recommended . Prerequisites: English 12 or assessment.
Learning Outcomes:
At the end of the course, the student shall:
1. apply the terminology of the topics covered in the course
2. demonstrate the skills involved in interrelating concepts presented in the course
3. apply the psychological theories and concepts of the topics covered in the course
4. understand how psychological knowledge is acquired and modified
5. design and run psychological studies
6. recognize and critique the difficulties inherent in psychological research
7. demonstrate skills in presenting data to other students
As such, this course is intended to offer a broad survey of the fundamental topics of psychology. Beginning with a brief overview of the nature of psychology and a sample of the diverse areas of human life that it touches, this course aims to provide students with a foundation in research methods and critical thinking skills needed to understand basic research in psychology. An emphasis is placed on understanding psychology as an experimental science, covering topics such as: physiological bases to psychology, sensation and perception, memory, consciousness, learning, thinking and intelligence. Along with providing students with some 'hands-on' training in carrying out psychological research, there is an opportunity for students to become fluent with psychological theories and concepts through lab exercises that accompany the lectures.
Learning Outcomes:
Course Text: Gerrig, Zimbardo, Desmarais, Ivanco (2011). Toronto: Pearson.
Teaching Schedule: Keep up with the weekly readings and assignments, see syllabus.
While we will be following along with the chapters of the textbook, as indicated on the attached syllabus, the lecture topics may stray from the material covered in the weekly readings. Students are responsible to read the assigned chapters as the material is covered in class, however students are also encouraged to read the assigned material before it is covered in class.
Evaluation: There will be two exams and a quiz. The quiz, midterm & final exams will be based upon the material covered in lecture, the assigned readings, and the laboratory activities. These tests will involve various multiple-choice and a few short answer questions. The exams will be on or about the dates indicated on the course syllabus and the final exam will be during the regular exam period in December. Weekly lab assignments and a group research report and presentation comprise the activities and marks for the lab portion of this course.
Marking Scheme:
Quiz | 15 % | October 2nd |
Midterm Exam | 30 % | November 6th |
Final Exam | 20 % | December 5 |
Online Practice Quizzes | 10 % | Weekly |
Laboratory Exercises | 25 % | Weekly |
Grading Scheme:
(Camosun Standards)
A+ 90 - 100 | B 73 - 76 | D 50 - 59 |
A 85-89 | B- 70 - 72 | F 0 - 49 |
A- 80 - 84 | C+ 65 - 69 | I = Incomplete* |
B+ 77-79 | C 60 - 64 |
Lab Activities:
Various class and small group activities
will be carried out in Labs. It is expected that all students show up to
their own Lab times as marks will be allotted for work completed during
and for Labs. Should a student be unable to attend their scheduled Lab
due to illness or some other legitimate excuse they may be permitted to
attend another Lab with permission from the instructor. A detailed list
of Lab activities will be handed out in the Laboratory classes.
Interpretation of Grades
Letter Grades are established according to the college definition as well as my own teaching experience.
A: Superior levels of achievement. High quality is expected which shows a full understanding of the work that is is to include some form of exceptional achievement (i.e. new insight, obvious quality of research, clear presentation above and beyond the minimum required, better work than the majority of the class).
B: High levels of achievement. Here a grade corresponds to good work that shows full understanding. It does not have the same degree of exceptional achievement that makes an A, but is distinctly beyond the minimum required, and above average.
C+: Satisfactory level of achievement. This is seen as average or acceptable quality.
C: Sufficient level of achievement to proceed with next level of study. Reaches average work, showing an understanding of the material and the minimum requirements have been met, however there are usually some errors and mistakes made that hold the grade here. It does not indicate the student is having any significant difficulties.
D: Minimum level of achievement for which credit is granted; a course with a D grade cannot be used as a prerequisite. This grade is given for work that is present but is not providing sufficient insight or completeness. It is likely lacking in details, but has some approximation of adequate work.
F: Minimum level is not achieved.
STUDENT RIGHTS and RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Students are responsible for reading the assigned material according to the assignment dates so that they are prepared to participate in online discussions and group tasks. It is essential for students to consult the chapter study guides since they will reveal the topic activities that will for the basis of the tests.
2. If a student requires special accommodation to be successful in this course, please contact me the first week of class.
3. Students, and their prospective participants have the right not to participate in any given lab exercise.
4. As part of the course, specifically in the lab activities, you always have the right NOT to self-disclose any information.
5. Students are expected to follow certain standards of conduct:
a) Work must be used for this course only, and it must be original-authored by the student who submits the work.
b) Assignments that are copied (identical or plagiarized) between students will be given 0% for ALL students with identical work. If you want to work cooperatively, inform me ahead of time.
c) Fabrication of research data is not acceptable.
d) It is college policy that "If an instructor remains convinced that there has been a violation [such as plagiarism or cheating], he or she may assign a grade of F for the work involved, or for the course..."
All students are
expected to follow the College’s
Student Conduct Policy as outlined in
Camosun College
Calendar