MIAMI DADE COLLEGE
MITCHELL WOLFSON NEW WORLD CENTER CAMPUS
COURSE SYLLABUS
PSY 2012 – INTRODUCTION TO PSYCHOLOGY (3 credits)
Semester: Fall 2012-1
Professor: Nazira K. Barry
Department: Social Science
Office: Bldg. 3 (Rm. 3506-2)
Telephone: 237-3783
Classroom #:
Email: nbarry@mdc.edu
Webpage:http://faculty.mdc.edu/nbarry
1 ) Syllabus/Course Disclaimer:
Please read this syllabus carefully since it is a contract between the class and the instructor. It is
subject to modification, however, as needed at the instructor’s discretion. This course is designed
and taught with the idea that students have different learning styles. Technology is also quickly
becoming more important as an instructional tool in higher education and occasionally you will
be required to use the computer to complete certain assignments. I am aware that Psychology
may not be a major for some of you. Nevertheless, I ask that you be open-minded, be willing to
work hard and approach the discipline with respect as the science that it is. This course is meant
to help you appreciate psychology’s past, present and future, and its profound impact on your life
and the people who exist in your environment. I challenge you to give your best in this course
and you will reap both the personal and academic benefits of your diligence.
2) Textbook: Visualizing Psychology, 2nd. Ed. By Siri Carpenter and Karen Huffman
(Wiley Publishers).
ISBN# 9780470410172
3) Course Description:
This course blends classic material with the most recent developments in psychological theory
and provides an understanding of human behavior as a natural phenomenon subject to scientific
study (Handout on Course Objectives attached).
This course is a requirement for many majors such as Psychology, Teaching, Nursing, Business
and the Sciences.
Basically, this introductory-level psychology course is intended to educate you on the broad area
of psychology. In this course, you will be provided with a broad knowledge base concerning the
history of psychology, research methods, biological and social bases of behavior, sensation and
perception, and human development. We will also be focusing on the areas of learning,
intelligence, personality, psychological disorders and their treatment. Essentially, you should be
able to demonstrate the ability to think, apply, and write critically about the various core
concepts that we will discuss in class and from what you read in the text.
I also hope that you will gain personal benefits and satisfaction from the class; that at the end of
the semester you would have increased your understanding and acceptance of yourself and
others. Furthermore, I hope that you will gain something from this class that will provide a
means of relating more effectively with others and increase your chances of success in your
chosen field of study.
4) Instructor's Teaching Philosophy
I believe that the classroom should be more than just a place where information is imparted and
learned. While the classroom must maintain its traditional focus, it should also be a place where
students discover their inner self, enhance personal growth and promote practical experiences
and community development.
In the areas of teaching and learning, I believe in meeting my students halfway. This represents a
scenario where teacher and students reach out to one another instead of imposing on each other.
I challenge students to integrate material from the course with their own developmental
experiences to promote personal growth. After all, there is nothing permanent except CHANGE.
Ultimately, you are the one who will apply what you learn from this course. Observe the adults
and children about you. Pay attention as they confront the challenges of everyday life. Think
about your own experiences and how they relate to what you learn and read. With the insights
you gain, you will be able to look at yourself and at other people with new eyes.
5) Primary Methods of Instruction ( Interactive )
Lecture and discussion, observation, group activities, audiovisual presentations, readings,
individual investigation and guest speakers. Students' views and opinions are a refreshing
addition to the class format. However, disrespect will not be tolerated. You are ultimately
responsible for your performance and its results. By reading and studying, often moving ahead of
the pace of the class because we may not be able to cover all that is projected, you will be at a
great advantage in maximizing your chances for an excellent grade. Therefore, I encourage you
to purchase a textbook as soon as possible and begin studying on your own where the full
responsibility for your academic success ultimately lies. It is extremely important that you read
the assigned chapters before coming to class.
6) Exams/Quizzes
Exams will cover reading assignments, lectures, audiovisuals, handouts, and other relatedmaterials discussed up to that point in the semester. All exams are multiple-choice format and
THERE ARE ABSOLUTELY NO MAKE-UPS FOR EXAMS. I encourage you to seriously
consider your options and status in the class before attempting to miss an exam. Furthermore, I
do not drop the lowest grade so you must try to do your best on every exam.
The final exam must be taken during Final Exam Week on the date and time scheduled by
the Office of the Registrar. If you have a conflict with an exam for another class at the
same time of this class exam, you must go to the registrar’s office and inform them of your
dilemma so that they can assist you properly.
Quizzes will be announced and unannounced. Therefore, you must come to class prepared.
Your preparation and success will improve if you read the content before coming to class.
THERE ARE ABSOLUTELY NO MAKE-UPS FOR QUIZZES.
* I do not give reviews for exams or quizzes. Throughout the semester, students are
frequently informed of what they need to know for the exams and also a review is done at
the beginning of each class based on what was covered in the previous class. I encourage
you to pay attention to the hints that I give and either write it down, highlight it, or use any
other strategy that will assist you in remembering the information disclosed to you.
*Quizzes are given at the beginning of class. Try to be punctual so that you can have ample
time to do the quiz and get a good grade.
7) Grading Scale
Average of 90-100% = A
Average of 80-89% = B
Average of 70-79% = C
Average of 60-69% = D
Average below 60% = F
Letter grades signify roughly the following about your performance:
A = excellent; superior
B = good
C = average
D = just passing
F = unacceptable for course credit
8) Assessment/Grading Criteria:
Class Attendance/Participation = 10%
Assignments
= 20%
Mid-Term Exam
= 35%
Final Exam
= 35%
9) Assignments – must be turned in on time.
I do not accept late assignments so plan ahead and leave time for unforeseen situations
such as your computer running out of ink, cannot access the internet, you do not have a
printer at home, your computer crashed, you lost all your information or could not for
some reason retrieve your documents, or you forgot your assignment at home, and so forth.
We often encounter these situations when we procrastinate so leave room for these types of
situations. Projects will NOT be accepted after the due date since you will be given
adequate time to complete this assignment.
All assignments to be completed at home must be typed and adhere to the following:
a) Cover page – should have the information listed in “e”
b) All margins observed (1” on all four sides of the page).
c) All pages must be neat
d) Correct spelling, grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, etc.
e) Appropriate heading:
Student name
Course
Days and Time of class
Date
Title of Assignment
f) Satisfactory content (required content)
g) No rip-outs, jagged edges, etc.
h) Multiple pages must be stapled or paper-clipped.
i) Font size #12 only, double –spaced and Times Roman font style only.
j) Do not leave wide margins or wide spaces between paragraphs because you will have points
deducted. This strategy is a “filler” to give the appearance of more content when in reality it is
below the minimum required.
Failure to adhere to the above instructions will result in a deduction of 5 points for every
factor listed above that is not adhered to. With each assignment, you will be given complete
instructions about the format and requirements. Late assignments will not be accepted unless
there is a crisis or emergency and proof of documentation will be required. There will be a
penalty of 5 points deducted for every day that it is late based upon my discretion of the
circumstances.
10) Learning Outcomes
I have outlined for you the learning outcomes so that you will be better able to understand and
appreciate the structure and format of the course requirements and how class is conducted.
“The college faculty has identified ten learning outcomes that every student at MDC will attain
prior to graduation. The outcomes reflect skills and knowledge that allow students not only to
succeed in their chosen field, but also to enable them to be lifelong learners.”
The required work for this class seeks to fulfill most, if not all, of the learning outcomes
identified below:
 Communication – all students should be able to communicate with
others and understand the work of others.
 Numbers/Data Analysis –all students should be able to process,
understand and accurately analyze numerical data.
 Critical Thinking – you will develop the skills to think through a
situation and arrive at logical answers.
 Information Literacy – you will know the pros and cons of information
in Internet resources and be able to rate information sources based on
their relevance and accuracy.
 Cultural/Global Perspectives – in order to succeed in this global society,
students need to develop an appreciation of various cultures and an
understanding of different points of view.
 Social Responsibility – you will develop skills to fulfill not only your
personal, but also your social and civic responsibilities.
 Ethical Thinking – your course of study will help you to develop
strategies, values and ethical thinking to help you understand
controversial issues such as “Stem Cell Research” and “Euthanasia.”
 Computer/Technology Usage – you will learn how to use word
processing, spreadsheet, database and presentation programs.
 Aesthetic Appreciation – appreciating the creative process is an essential
part of being a well-rounded individual.
 Environmentally Responsible – each one of us plays a very special role
in caring for our earth. Part of that responsibility is to know how its
systems function and how we can reduce our ecological impact.
11) Class Attendance and Participation
Attendance to class is mandatory. Students are expected to be in class on time and to come
prepared for class (do the required readings assigned). Tardiness is discouraged. You are
entitled to one (1) missed session before being dropped from the course. If there
is a specific reason why you must come in late or leave early, please inform me in advance or
else you will be marked as absent for that particular session. Furthermore, if you leave before
attendance is taken, you will be counted as ABSENT from class. Class attendance will be
recorded daily. Students are responsible for any work missed when absent. You should make an
earnest effort to be in class and on time. Lateness is rude and disruptive. You are expected to
regularly attend class and are encouraged to participate in class exercises and discussions. For
every class that you miss, you can no longer receive the full percentage points in the
attendance/class participation category. There are many unexpected twists and turns in life and
you may encounter some unforeseen circumstances. If there are crises/emergencies,
documentation must be provided to allow you to be eligible for make-ups and to remain in the
class. Missing class because you were sick and being unable to produce documentation will
result in you NOT being allowed to make up assignments. Prior personal arrangements/plans that
interfere with your ability to attend class are situations for which you must take full
responsibility. Therefore, if you must miss class (such as work-related situations, pre-planned
vacations, trips, etc.) these absences will affect your percentage in the category of
attendance/participation. I will not drop you from the course as a result of pre-planned events but
it will still affect your grade by lowering your average in the “class attendance” category.
If you miss a lecture, you will have to acquire class information from class peers. If you are ill
and unable to attend class, you may miss assignments on that particular day. Therefore, you
MUST communicate with me on the day that you miss class, informing me of your absence and
why so that I may be able to effectively assist you. Failure to communicate with me will result in
you being unable to make up the missed assignment. Often students miss a session on the day of
an exam or quiz and fail to inform me. Upon their return to class, they expect to have a make-up.
However, if a student cannot provide documentation and fail to communicate with me, their
chances of receiving a make-up are relatively slim. Furthermore, remember that there are no
make-ups for exams. This should take care of most situations. Outside of those mentioned above,
it is up to the discretion of the instructor and each situation will be dealt with on an individual
basis.
If you are sick or have to be hospitalized, do not wait until you are out of the hospital or
have recovered. Inform me before or the day of but NOT after the fact. I am more
reluctant to help you if I am told after rather than being told about your situation before.
Note: Frequently, when students miss class or a test/quiz due to numerous circumstances, they
will inform me that they sent me an email regarding their absence. Many times I do not
receive the email, perhaps because the student never sent it or for some other reason/s.
Therefore, you must send your message through various channels so that I will receive at least
one of them; either through email and phone or leave a message via email and in person or
the department at: 305-237-3660.
Issues raised by the instructor will be conducted in a relaxed and friendly manner. Numerous
opinions can be expressed but disrespect will not be tolerated. Whispering under your breath in a
derogatory manner about the professor, or making comments such as; “you never know
anything” will result in you being escorted out of the classroom. Please refrain from using
vulgar language or profanity when expressing your ideas, thoughts, and/or opinions. If this
language becomes redundant in class and if there is unacceptable behavior, you will be
asked to leave the room. Using language that is dismissive when speaking with the
instructor, such as “whatever” or rudely gesturing will result in you being escorted by
security out of class. You will then only be allowed back into the class if an apology is made
to the entire class and me (if the situation occurred in front of the class) – there are NO
exceptions!
12) In-class Assignments/Participation
These assignments are often a cooperative venture carried out by you and members of your home
group. A home group is a small group of your peers who will support, consult, learn with, and
encourage each other throughout the semester. Many in-class activities will involve working
with your home group. Some essential elements to a healthy home group are responsibility, trust,
respect, and commitment. You do not want to “let down” your home group.
Each group will be responsible for responding to a series of questions posed by the instructor.
Members will be given ample time to discuss and prepare their responses and this format can be
further facilitated by reading the assigned chapter before coming to class.
A part of the course will be experiential by nature. You will be working in assigned small groups
on a variety of topics, issues and scenarios related to the chapter content. Part of your grade rests
on your involvement/participation in these activities. Therefore, you want to come prepared to
class because it will allow us to move at a comfortable pace and cover the content.
13) Drop/Withdrawal
This is the responsibility of the student but it may be beneficial to first consult with the
instructor. However, it is the responsibility of the student to fill out an official withdrawal form
with the Registrar's office. If the student does not officially withdraw, s/he may receive an "F" in
the course.
14) Incomplete
The grade of I (incomplete) is given in the rare case that a student is PASSING a class but for
some extenuating circumstances is unable to complete the last part of the class (mainly the final
exam). If you are not passing your class, it is not possible for me to give you an "I". Note that
you will have one major term (Fall or Winter) to complete the requirements of your Incomplete
contract. If you do not complete your requirements in that time, the "I" will automatically change
to an "F" on your records. The instructor makes the determination as to whether you are eligible
for an Incomplete.
15) Academic Dishonesty
This is a serious college offense and is an action inconsistent with the ethical standards of Miami
Dade College. Academic dishonesty includes:
a) cheating on an examination.
b) plagiarizing - taking and passing off as one's own the ideas, writings, or work
of another without citing the sources.
c) falsifying records.
d) submitting work from another course without permission by the instructor.
e) assisting anyone to do any of the above.
The MDC Students’ Rights and Responsibilities Handbook describes students’ appropriate and
inappropriate behaviors, along with their consequences. As we are all adults, I do not expect this
to be an issue. Please be aware that cheating, plagiarism, and disruptive behavior are not
tolerated and can result in very serious consequences such as failure of a course or dismissal
from the college. A tarnished record is not a pleasant sight for any upper division entity and may
ruin your chances of scholarships, financial aid or membership into student organizations.
16) Class Conduct/Etiquette
As much as possible, please refrain from bringing food or drinks into the classroom. Please
refrain from putting your feet on other chairs/desks and turn off any cellular phones and beepers
prior to class unless you have informed me that you are, for example, an EMT or firefighter, or
that you have a child in daycare and may be contacted occasionally. If students are caught
texting or using their technology while class is in session, they will be asked to leave the
classroom. I am aware that technology means a lot to students but you must learn to exercise
some self-control and discipline of its use while you are in class.
Once the class session has begun, do not leave the room and then re-enter unless it is an
emergency. Leaving the classroom to answer cell phone calls or pagers is not acceptable,
especially since it is also very disruptive to the class. If you are consistent with leaving and
entering the room, I will ask you to leave the class for that particular session because this
behavior is very disruptive and distracting for everyone. If you miss a class meeting for any
reason, you are responsible for all material covered, for announcements made in your absence,
and for acquiring any materials that may have been distributed in class. Contacting your class
peers is a valuable alternative for any information discussed and distributed in class, especially if
you miss a session.
Some factors that relate to classroom incivility and from which you must refrain are:
 Being consistently late for class
 Talking while the instructor is speaking
 “Texting” while class is in session
 Drawing pictures in a notebook or doing crossword puzzles during class.
 Wearing headphones in class to listen to music.
 Allowing cell phones to ring during class.
 Turning on cell phones while class is in session.
 Walking in and out of the room while class is in session.
 Walking in late and passing in front of the teacher.
 Reading newspapers or magazines in class.
 Doing work from another course during class.
 Passing notes or playing games.
 Chatting with friends while class is in session.
 Engaging in other behaviors that most people consider insolent, challenging,
and intimidating.
 Making “cute” comments when discussing course content or responding to
others.
It is important that we are all able to stay focused on the class lecture/discussion. For this reason,
only one person at a time in the class should be speaking. Side conversations are distracting for
surrounding students and me. As you can see, simple norms of courtesy should be sufficient to
have our class run in the best interest of all of us. Thank you in advance for your cooperation.
17) Learning Resources
There are a variety of resources on campus available for students whose first language is not
English, or those who have difficulty with writing assignments. The Writing Center is located in
Rm. 2201 and there are a number of tutors available for individual help in other areas as well.
Please make use of these resources since this will increase your chances of getting a good grade
in the course.
18) Special Needs
Students with disabilities and who require further accommodation may contact ACCESS
Department, located in Building 1, Room 1180. Students must provide documentation from the
ACCESS Department, indicating their need and are allowed to have a note-taker or language
interpreter, depending on their particular need. If you have a special need but do not provide
documentation from ACCESS, then I will not be able to make any special accommodations for
you. For students who do not have “special needs” but find it difficult to keep up with notetaking, they are allowed to bring a tape-recorder to assist them with retention and retrieval of the
course material.
19) Get to know your class peers/emergency contact
Name of class peer ______________________Phone#__________Email_____________
Name of class peer ______________________Phone#__________Email_____________
Name of class peer ______________________Phone#__________Email_____________
You have heard and read a lot of information today. However, one of the tools to a supportive
and successful semester is communication. Please feel free to discuss with me any issues that
you believe may be hindering your progress in this course.
20) I hope you enjoy this course. It is not always an easy one for some students. There is a lot of
information and terminology to learn. Yet, it is very exciting, students often get very intense
about their views and are quite amazed by how much they are learning and remembering. Every
issue taken up is of fundamental importance – fundamental to a broad and satisfactory view of
human life. By fighting through the difficulties, you will be rewarded with insights and
perspectives that may dramatically alter your life. I have tried to do two major things in this
course: (1) to introduce you to the theories and perspectives of psychology as posited by some of
the most influential traditional and contemporary psychologists of our time and (2) to take up
conflicting positions on some current issues we face related to our psychological development.
Often these issues tweak at our religious and moral codes and there is a tendency to judge these
issues based on our own personal experience as the ultimate deciding factor. I challenge you to
view issues broadly, looking at various perspectives and while your experiences may influence
how you view issues, the influence they have on decision making and opinions should be
minimal.
An additional benefit is that you begin to sort out critical issues that you may have been
struggling with for a very long time and even resolving some of them. This course will
strengthen your ability to read sometimes difficult but influential material. As you wrestle with
the vast vocabulary of the course, you will strengthen your own vocabulary that will shape the
foundation upon which you will build more knowledge and information. You will discover that
knowledge is indeed “power”, to shape and control your life and also it earns you respect and
admiration from others. You will be impressed and proud of yourself.
This is a wonderful course. Psychology is so much a part of our lives and we need it to
maintain a healthy perception of ourselves and others. I hope you enjoy learning about it as much
as I enjoy teaching it.
Good luck to you and “yes,” you may want to read this syllabus again!!
YOU HAVE EMBARKED ON AN INFORMATIVE, EXCITING,
TRANSFORMING COURSE. ENJOY THE SEMESTER !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
AND
LIFE-
This syllabus is subject to change relative to situations and circumstances which
may occur during the term and at the discretion of the instructor.
21) COURSE CALENDAR
Week 1& 2
Chapter 1 - Introduction and Research Methods
Chapter 2 - Neuroscience and Biological Foundations
Week 3, 4 & 5
Chapter 3 - Stress and Health Psychology
Chapter 5 - States of Consciousness
Chapter 6 – Learning
Week 6, 7 & 8
Chapter 12 - Personality
Chapter 13 - Psychological Disorders
Chapter 14 – Therapy
Week 7 – Mid-Term Exam
Week 9, 10 & 11
Chapter 11 - Motivation and Emotion
Chapter 15 - Social Psychology
Chapter 7 – Memory
Week 12, 13 & 14
Chapter 9 – Lifespan Development I
Chapter 10 – Lifespan Development II
FINAL EXAM
FINAL EXAM - TBA AS PER THE COLLEGE’S CALENDAR