Introduction to Psychology (110-DL-20)
Instructors
Sara Cantonia Broaders
847/491-3652
Swift 243, 2029 Sheridan Road
Sara Broaders is a Professor of Instruction in the Department of Psychology at Northwestern. She received her PhD in Developmental Psychology and Mental Health Research from the University of Chicago. Her interests within psychology are diverse and she teaches a wide range of courses including Introduction to Psychology, Developmental Psych, Cognitive Psych, Psychopathology, and seminar classes on topics such as Psych of Food, Psych and Law, and Psychology and “Weird” Beliefs.
Meeting Info
Online: TBA
Overview of class
The purpose of this course is to present an overview of the field of psychology. The topics we will cover include research methods, the biological bases of behavior, perception, learning, memory, emotion, motivation, social influences on behavior, health and well-being, and psychological disorders and treatment. A combination of lectures, readings, media sources, and participation in demonstrations of classic psychology experiments will convey a sense of the foundational questions and methods of the science of psychology.
Ultimately, the goal of this course is to impart an initial understanding of some fundamentals of human nature and behavior, as well as instill knowledge of the science of psychology.
Note: This course is limited to School of Professional Studies students only. Undergraduate students in other schools at Northwestern are not permitted to enroll in this course
Registration Requirements
There are no prerequisites for this class.
Learning Objectives
By the end of this course, you will be able to:
Identify key concepts, principles, research findings, and overarching themes in psychology.
Apply psychological principles to everyday life, including personal and social issues.
Use scientific reasoning and empirical evidence to explain and interpret psychological phenomena.
Apply theories and research findings from each of the specific topic areas to novel examples.
Recognize and critique misconceptions or erroneous behavioral claims based on evidence from psychological science.
Communicate effectively in writing about psychological principles, findings, and applications.
Class Materials (Required)
This is the textbook that you will need to purchase for this course:
Phelps, E.A., Berkman, E.T., & Gazzaniga, M. (2022). Psychological Science (7th ed.). W.W. Norton & Co. ISBN: 978-0-393-88495-1
We have made a special arrangement with the publisher for a reduced cost on the e-book and online supplements for Northwestern students. You can purchase the book directly from the WW Norton textbook digital page https://digital.wwnorton.com/psychsci7special
Click on "Purchase Options" in the upper right corner to receive e-book access for the discounted price of $50. The e-book also includes access to the InQuizitive system and the ZAPS labs, which you will need.
If you prefer to read a physical copy of the textbook, it is widely available from a variety of online booksellers and the bookstore in the Norris University Center--Evanston. Please be sure to purchase the 7th edition if you choose to buy the physical book. Even if you buy the physical textbook, you will still need to purchase access to the InQuizitive system and ZAPS labs from the link above since those exercises will be part of your course grade.
Optional readings and resources are included in many of the modules.
Class Attributes
Asynchronous:Remote class-no scheduled mtg time