TEXAS STATE UNIVERSITY
Spring 2017 - PSY 1300
Introduction to Psychology
Dr. Amy M. Meeks
COURSE GOALS
This course is designed to introduce you to the field of psychology. In doing so, we
will discuss various aspects of life and how those aspects interact with psychological
principles. Because this is a survey course, we will not be able to go into great detail on
any of these topics. The goal instead is to cover the main points and give you a good
working knowledge that will help you understand psychology as a discipline and as a
science. You will find that this working knowledge will add to your understanding of how
complex and fascinating we are as human beings. Whenever possible, we will use inclass projects, out-of-class assignments, demonstrations, and videos to illustrate key
concepts in this course.
COURSE REQUIREMENTS
---- Four (4) Multiple Choice Exams: 95% of your grade
---- Research Participation: You must complete two (4) credits: 5% of your grade
COURSE MATERIALS
Required text: Myers, D. G., EXPLORING PSYCHOLOGY (10th ed.) New York:
Worth
The ISBN for the paperback version + LaunchPad is:
978-1-319-06147-0
LaunchPad is the on-line learning tool that goes with the text. You do not need to
purchase it as it is free with the textbook.
INSTRUCTOR
Name: Dr. Amy M. Meeks, PhD - Texas State E-mail: [email protected]
Office Location: 231 UAC; Phone: (512) 245-3622 (no voice mail)
Office Hours: M – W from 10 to 11 and 2 to 3
Teaching Assistant: 8 a.m. class: Marin: [email protected]
9 a.m. class: Kate: [email protected]
COURSE POLICIES
Attendance
Class attendance and class participation are considered important in the attainment of
course goals. Therefore, absences are strongly discouraged. Attendance is taken daily
and class is best when we are here together.
If you choose to be absent, or are absent for reasons beyond your control, that is okay
and not the end of the world. Life happens and sometimes you are not in class. The
only absences which are accepted and excused are those that are school related in that
you are elsewhere representing Texas State University. Documentation verifying those
times is essential. Students who attend class MUST VERIFY their attendance each
class day.
Otherwise, if you miss class because you are sick, I hope you feel better; if you miss
class because you have to attend a funeral, I am sorry for your loss; and if you miss
class because you overslept, I hope you feel rested. My hope is that you choose to
come to class, be involved, and learn.
Attendance for classes held in Regular Classrooms:
Attendance will be documented by signing in on the roster each class day. You must
sign in each day in order to be counted as being present in class.
Attendance for classes held in Teaching Theatres:
Attendance will be documented by the scanners. You must scan in and scan out each
class day with your student ID. Leaving class after attendance has been taken but
before class is over, will count as an absence.
Academic Integrity Issues
The professor will strictly adhere to the University Academic Integrity Policy described in
the Student Handbook in dealing with plagiarism or other academic integrity issues.
This policy states:
All work submitted for credit must be the student’s original work. Any
assignment turned in that is questionable in terms of its authorship will be
investigated and will be subject to the disciplinary action(s) recommended
under Texas State University policies.
This information can be found in the university handbook at UPPS 07.10.01
STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES
Daily Assignments
We will cover approximately one chapter per week. You are expected to have read the
chapter by class time and you are responsible for all assigned reading material for the
examinations. Classroom activities and lectures will be based on the chapter topics and
related issues that you should be able to discuss.
Classroom Discussions
Issues in psychology can be among the most sensitive and personal that we may
encounter in the academic world. Your opinion is valuable and we want to hear from
you!! Listening to new perspectives in a discussion will facilitate your own learning and
that of others. The following ground rules will aid us in having useful, respectful
discussions about these sensitive topics:
Take responsibility for your own learning in this class.
Speak up if you have a question or do not understand.
Respect all opinions, your own and those of others.
Feel free to disagree with any opinion that is expressed, but only after you fully
understand the other point of view.
Derogatory comments or personal attacks are not acceptable.
Agree that we may disagree.
Take risks by sharing feelings and opinions, but leave what others say in the classroom.
If, during this course, personal issues are raised that you would like to discuss with a
counselor, please contact the University Counseling Center at 245 - 2208. I am willing
to help you find the right resource for you and your situation but I can not become your
counselor.
SPECIAL STUDENTS
If you are a student with a disability who will require accommodation to participate in this
class, please contact me as soon as possible. You will be asked to provide
documentation from the Office of Disability Services.
COURSE GRADES
Your grade in this course will be the result of four (4) examinations (95% of total grade),
and Research Participation (5%). So 95% from exams, and 5 % from research
participation through SONA. Details on the last pages of this syllabus.
Examinations will be based on class materials, lectures, guest lectures, media
presentations, and text assignments.
Make-up examinations are allowed only in cases of an excused absence or an
emergency, and the reason must be documented in writing. If you must take an exam
outside of the regularly scheduled time there will be an automatic deduction of 15
points. This will not apply to students who miss an exam due to university related
business.
All make-up exams must be taken within one week of the class exam.
NO TEST SCORES ARE DROPPED.
The grading scale will be as follows:
A:
B:
C:
D:
F:
if your average is between 90 and 100
if your average is between 80 and 89
if your average is between 70 and 79
if your average is between 60 and 69
if your average is 59 or below
You are each responsible for the grade that you make in this class. I want you to all
make A’s, and I will do my part to help you achieve that grade, but I cannot do it for you.
If your average for the course falls in the 70’s then you will receive a C in the class,
regardless of how much you explain to me that your transcript cannot handle another C.
At the end of each semester, I have students tell me in great detail why they REALLY
need a certain grade in this class. If you choose to do this, I will listen patiently to your
explanation and then I will give you the grade that you have earned. I will be glad to give
you an A, if your average is in the 90’s.
I see this class as a joint effort between you and me. I promise to do my part by
showing up each class day ready to lecture on the material and explain it in a way that
you can hopefully understand. I need you to do your part by coming to class willing to
learn and prepared to discuss the material of the day.
It is possible to make a great grade in this class and to have fun doing so. That is my
goal for each of you.
ELECTRONIC BEHAVIOR IN THE CLASSROOM:
Laptop computers may be used to take notes from the class lecture of the day. Using
your laptop during class for any other purpose will cause you to loose the privilege of
having your laptop in this class. Cell phone use is not allowed in class so please
silence your phones while you are in class
HOW YOU AND I COMMUNICATE
When I have information that I need to tell you, I will always put it in the form of
an Announcement on our TRACS site. At the same time, I always send a copy to
your Bobcat email account. PLEASE read your Bobcat email so you will know of
any changes I have made to the class schedule and/or events you may attend for
extra credit. I will always give you the information you need to know for this class
BUT you must read it in order to be aware of such information. Please read your
Bobcat emails.
EXTRA CREDIT
Limited to 16 points total for the semester.
1.) Attendance in class:
If you have perfect attendance between tests, then 2 points will be added to your test
grade. For example, if you do not miss a class before Test #1 then you will be given 2
points as extra credit for Test #1. The same concept will apply to Test #2, 3, and 4.
Attendance is taken every day and, with the completion of each test, you start over on
your ability to earn 2 points for the next test.
2.) Participation in various research opportunities:
During the semester I am often approached and asked to allow my students to
participate in various research projects. I will always tell you about these opportunities
and give you the chance to participate. Participation is not required but is usually a fun
way to earn extra credit. The number of points you earn varies with each study
depending on the time required of you.
3.) Attending Various Campus Events:
These will be announced in class as they become available.
COURSE CALENDER - INTRO TO PSYCHOLOGY - SPRING 2016
WEEK 1
January
MLK - 18 - 20
CHAPTER 1: Thinking Critically…
CHAPTER 2: Biology…
WEEK 2
January
23 - 25 - 27
WEEK 3
February
30 - 1 - 3
WEEK 4
February
6 - 8 - 10
WEEK 5
February 13 - 15 - 17
WEEK 6
February
WEEK 7
Feb/March 27 - 1 - 3
CHAPTER 9: Thinking, Language, …
WEEK 8
March
TEST #2: Chapters 4, 7, 9
WEEK 9
March
20 – 22 - 24
6 - 8 - 10
-
-
CHAPTER 3: Consciousness…
TEST #1: Chapters 1,2,3
CHAPTER 4: Developing through…
CHAPTER 7: Learning
---- SPRING BREAK----
WEEK 10 March
20 - 22 - 24
CHAPTER 11: Stress, Health and…
WEEK 11 Mar/April
27 - 29 - 31
CHAPTER 12: Personality…
WEEK 12
April
3–5-7
WEEK 13
April
10- 12 - 14
TEST # 3: Chapter 11, 12, 13
WEEK 14
April
17 - 19 - 21
CHAPTER 14: Psychological Disorders
WEEK 15
April/May 24 - 26 - 28
CHAPTER 15: Therapy
WEEK 16
May
LAST CLASS DAY/ Test #4 Chpt 14, 15
1-
CHAPTER 13: Social Psychology….
ALL TESTS ARE GIVEN IN THE ROOM WHERE YOUR REGULAR CLASS IS HELD
The Final Exam for this class is the 4th test. It will not be comprehensive and will
be formatted like your other tests. Once you take Test #4 you are finished with
this class.
Final Exam Time: 8 a.m. class: Wednesday May 10th at 8 a.m.
9 a.m. class: Friday May 5th at 8 a.m.
The Department of Psychology has adopted Expected Student Learning Outcomes for
the undergraduate major, the graduate major, and for all students in PSY 1300 which is
a general education course meeting a requirement for the social and behavioral science
component. These expected student learning outcomes are available for your review at
the following website:
http://www.psych.txstate.edu/assessment/
Student learning outcomes will be assessed at one or two points during the semester.
This assessment is mandatory for all students but this assessment will not affect your
grade in the course. It is only to assess the department as part of our preparation for reaccreditation with the Southern Association of Colleges (SACS). Accreditation through
SACS is done every ten (10) years and is an important part of making your degree
valuable.
Learning Outcomes for Students in PSY 1300:
1) Students will be able to define what psychology is and discuss the development of
psychology as a social and behavioral science.
2) Students will be able to employ the appropriate methods, technologies, and data
that social and behavioral scientists use to investigate the human condition/human
behavior.
3) Students will demonstrate their ability to apply the theories of and research in
psychology to describe the human condition.
4) Students will be able to recognize and apply reasonable criteria for the acceptability
of historical evidence and social research, as required for all courses meeting the
social and behavioral science requirement. More specifically, students will be able to
understand the evolving nature of social science research, especially in the field of
psychology.
5) Students will demonstrate an understanding of the ways in which different
approaches to, and schools of thought within, psychology examine the human
condition/human behavior using different methodologies consistent with the social and
behavioral science perspective requirements.
Learning Outcomes for the Undergraduate Major in Psychology:
1) Demonstrate understanding of the concepts and theories of psychology by using
theories to explain and predict behavior and mental processes.
2) Demonstrate Knowledge and understanding of theories and research in biological
bases of behavior.
3) Demonstrate a basic understanding of and ability to utilize appropriately the various
methodologies and designs used in psychological research.
4) Understand basic statistical concepts and evaluate the appropriateness of research
conclusions.
5) Demonstrate a basic understanding of ethical obligations and ethical issues within
psychology.
RULES AND PROCEDURES FOR ALL TEACHING THEATRES: ALKEK,
CENTENNIAL HALL, and LBJ
In our efforts to maintain the integrity of the Teaching Theater facilities and equipment,
please observe the following:
Cell phones must be turned off.
No food or open drink containers.
Spill-proof containers permitted.
No tobacco products of any type.
No power adaptor cords across the aisles.
Do not place your feet on the seat backs.
To facilitate traffic flow, enter and exit through the assigned doorways.
Lost and Found items are kept in the Technician’s office.
Emergency Procedures--If an alarm is sounded, move in an orderly fashion to the
door nearest you, evacuate and move away from the building
Medical Emergency Procedures--Notify the Professor or TA immediately in the
event of illness or injury during class. All students are to remain seated, unless
instructed otherwise, to provide Emergency Personnel access to the individual requiring
attention.
TESTING PROCEDURES FOR ALL CLASSES
On test days, the only item you need to bring to class is a pencil. Scantrons will be
provided.
On your scantron please write in and bubble in YOUR NAME, ID NUMBER, COURSE
NUMBER, SECTION NUMBER, and TEST FORM. If these are not filled in then 5
points will be deducted from your test score.
If you bring other items to class, they must be placed against the wall or on the stage.
During the test, no caps, hats, or head gear are allowed.
During the test, no electronic devices are allowed. If one is visible, it will be
assumed you were using it to cheat and you will be given a zero for the test.
When turning in your test, please be certain it is placed in the correct stack.
Asking the professor to clarify a test question is acceptable; asking the professor for the
answer is not acceptable.
Each student is to keep their scantron covered so that their answers are not seen by
others.
The test forms (color) will be alternated when placed on your desks, therefore,
you should always have a different color than your neighbor. If you have the
same color as your neighbor you will both be given a zero for that test.
All answers are to come from you and only you.
Spring 2016 PSY 1300 Research Experience: Participant Guidelines
This information applies to all of the following sections of PSY 1300:
MWF 8-8:50 Section 251 (CRN 36252): Instructor: Amy Moore Meeks
MWF 9-9:50 Section 252 (CRN 36253): Instructor: Amy Moore Meeks
MWF 10-10:00 Section 253 (CRN 33868): Instructor: Sarah K Angulo
MW 11:00-12:20 Section 254 (CRN 33870): Instructor: Marilyn Gibbons-Arhelger
TR 9:30-10:50 Section 255 (CRN 33869): Instructor: Kristen Tooley
TR 3:30-4:50 Section 256 (CRN 33871): Instructor: Kristen Tooley
R 5-7:50 Section 257 (CRN 33872): Instructor: John D Huber
MW 3:30-4:50 Section 259 (CRN 38478): Instructor: Marilyn Gibbons-Arhelger
In Psychology 1300, you will learn about research in many areas of psychology. Psychologists
conduct much of this research with human participants in psychology laboratories at
universities such as Texas State University. To enhance your understanding of the nature of
psychological research, it is important that you get some first-hand experience with research.
For that reason, students in this section of Psychology 1300 are required to have direct
experience with psychological research.
All research with human participants must be carried out in an ethical manner. For example,
you cannot be required to participate in experiments against your wishes. Therefore, you
have two options to fulfill the Psychology 1300 research experience requirement: one option
involves participation in experiments whereas the other does not. Both options have been
designed to take the same amount of effort. You are free to choose either option or both for
a total credit balance of 4 credits.
If you fail to complete the research experience requirement (either Option 1 or 2 below, or
a combination), then your final course grade will be reduced by approximately one-half of
a letter grade (i.e., 5%). The due date to complete your research requirement is Monday,
May 2, 2016 (see information below on early participation incentive). No late submissions
will be accepted.
Option 1. Experiment Participation
If you are 18 years of age or older, you are eligible to participate in experiments (the age
restriction is due to federal policy). Your participation in experiments will give you a chance
to have direct contact with research. Participation in psychology experiments at Texas State
University that require 30 minutes or less are worth 1 credit; experiments that take between 3060 minutes or less are worth 2 credits; experiments that take between 60-90 minutes or less are
worth 3 credits; experiments that take between 90-120 minutes or less are worth 4 credits. The
number of credits will be noted in the experiment description that you see when you sign up.
Only experiments listed at http://txstate.sona-systems.com qualify for credit. In addition, paid
experiments cannot be used to satisfy the Psychology 1300 Research Requirement.
To sign up for an experiment, follow the steps below:
1. Go to the website http://txstate.sona-systems.com on or after
February 8 (the subject pool will be opened on the first Monday after
the 12th class day, and your user account will have been created).
2. Log in with the following credentials:
 User ID: Your Texas State net ID e.g., ab1234
 Password: PSY1300 (You may change your password after logging in)
After you log in, you can sign up for experiments, view your accumulated credits, and edit
your profile, including your password as shown in the screen shot below.
Your name
here
Incentive for Early Participation: If you complete your research requirement (option 1:
experiment participation only) by Monday, March 21st, you will receive double credits
(e.g., 2 credits for a 1 credit study).
Option 2. Research Article Summary
You may also demonstrate direct contact with research by submitting a written summary of a
research article published during 2014 in Psi Chi Journal of Undergraduate Research. Credit
will not be given for summaries of articles published in any other year or any other journal. Each
written summary is worth 2 credits. To earn credits in this way, follow the steps below:
1. Visit the following web site:
http://libproxy.txstate.edu/login?url=http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true
&db=a9h&jid=FKUB&site=ehost-live. (works best with Mozilla Firefox) Expand the
2014 list on the right side of the page, and choose one the articles listed. The article(s)
you summarize must be from 2014. All articles can be accessed for free through the
Texas State Library.
2. Read the article and then type (in 12-point font, single spaced) a 1-page paper in which
you answer the following 4 questions.
3. (A) What question(s) did this research try to answer or what hypotheses did it test?
(B) What methods were used to answer the question(s) or test the hypotheses?
(C) What were the major findings of the research?
(D) What conclusions did the researchers draw based on the findings?
4. Please respond in your own words and avoid direct quotes. If plagiarism is detected in
your article summary, you will lose the opportunity to earn that credit through article
submission. You might then (a) do an experiment to replace it or (b) lose the credit.
5. Submit your summary via email to: [email protected]
Summary
Research Experience in this section of PSY 1300 is worth 5% of your course grade. Research
credits for both options can be tracked by logging into http://txstate.sona-systems.com/ as
described above. Additional details, including frequently asked questions, can be found at:
http://www.psych.txstate.edu/research/PSY1300/. Please direct any questions regarding the
research experience requirement to the Research Experience Coordinator at [email protected].