Cognitive Psychology (228-0-20)
Instructors
Sara Cantonia Broaders
847/491-3652
Swift 243, 2029 Sheridan Road
Meeting Info
Swift Hall 107: Tues, Thurs 12:30PM - 1:50PM
Overview of class
This course is an introduction to cognitive psychology, covering topics such as perception, attention, memory, concepts and knowledge, mental representation, language, reasoning, judgment, and decision-making. Classes will consist of lectures, demonstrations, and discussion. Students will be required to think critically about the assumptions and methods underlying research on class topics.
Registration Requirements
Recommended Prerequisite: Psych 110 (AP Credit for Intro Psych is accepted)
Learning Objectives
• Understand the key theories, concepts, principles, and overarching themes of cognitive psychology.
• Gain understanding of the various types of research methods and tools that cognitive psychologists use.
• Evaluate the empirical evidence for the general theories presented for each topic to ascertain which theories and premises have the best scientific support.
• Use scientific reasoning to understand and interpret cognitive phenomena.
• Apply the theories and research findings from each of the specific topic areas to novel examples.
• Understand how various cognitive processes interact and influence each other.
• Apply cognitive psychological principles to personal and social issues.
• Recognize how cognitive processes are both shaped by and influence the social context.
Teaching Method
Lecture, in-class demonstrations, and some discussion
Evaluation Method
Grades will be based on ZAPS labs (demonstrations of classic experiments), practice quizzes, a short paper (~4 pages), and exams.
Class Materials (Required)
Reisberg, D. (2022). Cognition: Exploring the Science of the Mind, 8th edition. New York: W.W.Norton. ISBN: 978-0-393-87760-1. [Note, the 6th or 7th edition of the textbook is also acceptable.]
Brown, P.C., Roediger, H.L. III., & McDaniel, M.A. (2014). Make it stick: The science of successful learning. Harvard University Press. ISBN: 978-0-674-72901-8
Class Attributes
Social and Behavioral Science Foundational Discipl
Social & Behavioral Sciences Distro Area
Attendance at 1st class mandatory
Prerequisites apply, see description