PSYC 610: ORGANIZATIONAL PSYCHOLOGY
Spring 2004
M 12:45-3:45 pm, 336 Psychology Building
Instructor:
Office:
Office Hours:
Phone:
E-mail:
Webpage:
Dr. Mindy Bergman
240 Psychology Building
by appointment
845-9707
mindybergman@tamu.edu
www.tamu.edu/classes/psyc/bergman
and webct.tamu.edu
Course description: PSYC 610 is a graduate-level introduction to classic and contemporary research
literature in organizational psychology. The course objectives are to: 1) provide an overview of the
literature (theory, empirical studies) by sampling major content areas, 2) develop research skills through
critical review/analysis of organizational literature, and 3) stimulate ideas for original research projects.
Course expectations: Each week, class members are expected to read all of the assigned materials,
think about the materials individually and collectively, post a thoughtful discussion question, and be
prepared to discuss the readings. The reading list appears in a separate document and on the course
webpage. In addition, specific expectations include:
Exams [20% each]. Both the midterm and the final exam will be composed of a set of essay questions
that students will answer outside of class.
Research proposal [30%]. This paper should be a proposal of original research study on a topic
approved by the instructor. Final proposals should include a review of literature and proposed methods
(design, measures, participants, and analyses) and should be approximately 10 pages (APA style), not
including title page or references. Proposals are due on April 5 at the start of class. Proposals will be
graded on quality of research proposed, quality of review of relevant literature, clarity of writing, and APA
style and formatting. A good proposal (i.e., one that will earn an A) is one that is clear, concise, and
readily actionable if opportunity arises.
Research proposal presentation [20%]. Students will present a short, 10-15 minute presentation of their
research proposals on either April 26 or May 3. Students will receive their graded proposals one week
before their scheduled date to present. Dates for presentations will be selected through discussion or
through chance if discussion does not resolve presentation dates. Presentations should outline the
research question, relevant research, and proposed methods. Additionally, presentations should address
and rectify any concerns found in the research proposal paper. Presentations will be graded on clarity of
presentation, quality of research proposed, quality of review of relevant literature, and ability to answer
questions from the audience.
Participation [10%]. There are several components to participation in the course. First, students will post
one thoughtful question about the readings to webct each week by Sunday at noon. These questions
should show evidence that the student is reading the material. Further, students are expected to attend
all classes. Failure to attend the presentation days for any reason other than a documented, universityapproved excuse will dock a flat-5% from your final, total grade. Finally, students should actively
participate in discussions during class.
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a federal anti-discrimination statute that provides comprehensive civil rights protection
for persons with disabilities. Among other things, this legislation requires that all students with disabilities be guaranteed a learning
environment that provides for reasonable accommodation of their disabilities. If you believe you have a disability requiring an
accommodation, please contact the Department of Student Services, Services for Students with Disabilities, in Room 126 of the
Koldus Building, or call 845-1637.