PSY 2510—Social Psychology
Three Semester Hours
MA 6/19
Prerequisites
University Requisite: PSY 1010
Course Overview
This course is designed to provide an in-depth survey of experimental research in social psychology. It is assumed that you already have an understanding of basic psychological principles and terms equivalent to Psychology 1010. Because this course emphasizes findings based on scientific research, it will be necessary to develop a clear understanding of the techniques social psychologists use when conducting research.
Methods of Course Instruction
All material for this course is print-based. Instructor and students communicate and exchange materials through postal mail. You may submit your assignments as e-mail attachments, but your graded assignments will be returned to you by postal mail.
Textbooks and Supplies
Myers, D.G. and K.M. Twenge. Social Psychology . 13th ed. McGraw-Hill, 2018. [ISBN: 9781259911040]
Number of Lessons
The course has six lessons, including a midcourse examination, and a final examination. These lessons include:
- Lesson 1: Introduction; The Self in a Social World
- Lesson 2: Attitudes and Persuasion
- Lesson 3: Social Beliefs and Judgments; Genes and Culture
- Lesson 4: Midcourse Examination Information
- Lesson 5: Conformity, Group Influence
- Lesson 6: Prejudice and Aggression
- Lesson 7: Interpersonal Attraction, Altruism, and Helping
- Lesson 8: Final Examination
Types of Writing Assignments
Each lesson (other than the exams) will involve answering four questions—two from each chapter. There are two components to an answer that receives an “A” grade: first, it should demonstrate that you have carefully read and understood the material, and second, it should include your own opinion or point of view. Perhaps the most typical mistake students make in answering these questions is failing to relate their answers adequately to the concepts covered in the text.
Grading Criteria
Grades will be based entirely on your performance on the eight lessons. No extra-credit opportunities will be available. The midcourse and final will each compose 20% of your grade, and the other four lessons will be worth 10% each.