Apa, Apa Psyc2301 – 001134S
08/27/2014
ANGELINA COLLEGE
LIBERAL ARTS DIVISION
PSYCHOLOGY 2301 – GENERAL PSYCHOLOGY
INSTRUCTION SYLLABUS
1. Psychology 2301 – General Psychology – Three hours credit.
A. Course description: This course provides a basic overview of psychology. A brief history of
psychology will be covered. Topics of discussion will include the interaction of heredity and the
environment on behavior, personality theory, how the brain works, why knowledge about the
brain is important in the field of psychology, mental health, psychopathology, life-span
development, death, and therapeutic techniques.
B. Intended Audience: The intended audience is any student who desires to improve their knowledge
and understanding of psychology.
C. Instructor:
Name: Ann Apa
OfficeLlocation: BSB 103 Adjunct Office (BY APPOINTMENT)
Office Hours: MTWT by appointment
E-Mail Address: aapa@angelina.edu Cell Phone: 936- 366-6391
II. INTENDED STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES:
A. Core Competencies – (Basic Intellectual Competencies)
1. Reading: Reading at the college level means the ability to analyze and interpret a variety of
printed materials – books, articles, and documents. A core curriculum should offer students the
opportunity to master both general methods of analyzing printed materials and specific methods for
analyzing the subject matter of individual disciplines.
2. Writing: Competency in writing is the ability to produce clear, correct, and coherent prose adapted
to purpose, occasion, and audience. Although correct grammar, spelling, and punctuation are each a sine
qua non in any composition, they do not automatically ensure that the composition itself makes sense or
that the writer has much of anything to say. Students need to be familiar with the writing process
including how to discover a topic and how to develop and organize it, how to phrase it effectively for their
audience. These abilities can be acquired only through practice and reflection.
3. Speaking: Competence in speaking is the ability to communicate orally in clear
Developing this competency includes an acquiring poise and developing control of the,
coherent, and persuasive language appropriate to purpose, occasion, and audience, Language through
experience in making presentations to small groups, to large groups, and through the media.
4. Listening: Listening at the college level means the ability to analyze and interpret various forms of
spoken communication.
5. Critical Thinking: Angelina College defines critical thinking as the dynamic process of questioning
preconceptions and biases through the gathering and evaluation of data to reach new conclusions that
consider realistic implications and consequences
6. Computer Literacy: Computer literacy at the college level means the ability to use computerbased technology in communicating, solving problems, and acquiring information. Core-educated students
should have an understanding of the limits, problems, and possibilities associated with the use of
technology, and should have the tools necessary to evaluate and learn new technologies as they become
available. (The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (Report of Subcommittee on Core
Curriculum*, March 1, 1989.
B. Course Learning Outcomes -- (Found in the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board)
Document, Titled: Lower Division Academic Course Guide Manual –dated: SPR 2012)
1. Identify various research methods and their characteristics used in the scientific study of
psychology.
2. Describe the historical influences and early school of thought that shaped the field of psychology.
3. Describe some of the prominent perspectives and approaches used in the study of psychology.
4. Use terminology unique to the study of psychology.
5. Describe accepted approaches and standards in psychological assessment and evaluation.
6. Identify factors in psychology and psychological processes involved in human behavior.
III. ASSESMENT MEASURES OF STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES:
A. Assessments for the Core Intellectual Competencies.
1. Reading: Competency in reading is assessed through the use of embedded questions, class
discussions, and assignments covering or related to the textbook, material, and class discussion.
2. Writing: Competency in writing in assessed through the use of embedded questions, written
assignments and short-answer questions on exams.
3. Speaking: Competency in speaking is assessed through class discussions.
4. Listening: Competency in listening is assessed through the responses to questions during
class discussions, embedded questions, and adherence to instructions.
5. Critical Thinking: Competency in critical thinking is assessed by the ability to utilize critical
thinking skills with regards to class discussions, embedded questions, and class assignments.
6. Computer Literacy: Competency in using computer-based technology is assessed through use
of computerized research for assignments, embedded questions, and class discussions.
B. Assessments for Course Learning Outcomes:
1. Students will demonstrate the ability to identify various research methods and their
characteristics used in the scientific study of psychology through the successful completion of
embedded exam questions, class discussions, and assignments.
2. Students will demonstrate the ability to describe the historical influences and early school of
thought that shaped the field of psychology through the successful completion of embedded
questions, class discussions, and assignments.
3. Students will demonstrate the ability to describe some of the prominent perspectives and
approaches used in the study of psychology through the successful completions of embedded
questions, class discussions, and assignments.
4. Students will demonstrate the ability to use terminology unique to the study of psychology
through the successful completion of embedded questions, class discussions, and assignments.
5. Students will demonstrate the ability to describe accepted approaches and standards in
psychological assessments and evaluation through the successful completion of embedded questions,
class discussion, and assignments.
6. Students will demonstrate the ability to identify factors in psychology and psychological
processes involved in human behavior through the successful completion of embedded questions,
class discussions, and assignments.
IV. INSTRUCTIONAL PROCEDURES:
A. Methodologies common to all sections
Methodologies which are utilized in presenting course content included (but not limited to) online
learning modules, textbook reading assignments, weekly online assignments, lectures, class discussions,
audio-visual presentations and critical thinking exercise.
B. Methodologies determine by the instructor: This course requires computer/internet use on a consistent
schedule. Students are required to complete weekly assignments and used in the calculation of the final
course grade. Students will use WileyPLUS which accompanies the textbook to create a Personalized Study
Plan to facilitate learning. Pretest/Post Test/ Chapter Exams in MyPsychLabPlus are required for each
chapter assigned. See Course Outline regarding the date that the assignments are due.
V. COURSE REQUIRMENTS AND POLICIES:
A. Required Textbooks, Materials, and EquipmentRequired Text: Psychology Around Us Comer, Ronald & Gould, Elizabeth 2nd Ed.
John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Publisher
Required Material:
1. WileyPLUS Lab Card with Access Code to accompany Psychology Around Us 2nd ed. (to access
WileyPLUS at http://angelina.mylabsplus.com
2. Angelina College’s Blackboard:
3. Scantron (#882) and #2 Pencils for testing.
Required Equipment:
Computer with reliable internet access (required to log in to the textbook-related website listed above
and to log on into Blackboard to access course announcements, assignments).
Optional:
Critical Thinking Learning Module (see Critical Thinking – supplemental Unit for Critical Thinking 1.1
by Monica Peters – Available on Blackboard).
B. ASSIGNMENTS
WEEKLY ASSIGNMENTS/HOMEWORK/ QUIZZES 1. Weekly assignments will be posted on Blackboard Calendar with due dates. These will require access to
WileyPLUS. All assignments must be submitted to the Instructor. I will not be able to post grades if
they have not been submitted. Late assignments will not be accepted and will result in a grade of zero.
Do not get behind on the Pretest/Post Test/Chapter Exams.
2. Pretest/Post Test are part the weekly assignments. These quizzes will be submitted to me (only the
TOP part of the quiz with the Chapter # and the student’s NAME written on it). I cannot give a grade to
papers that do not have a name or Chapter #. The Pretest/Post Test can be taken several times by the
student (try for 100). Questions from these quizzes may be on the Chapter Exams.
3. Chapter Exams are to be completed on line WileyPLUS. Complete The Chapter Exams for each chapter
prior to the advancing to the next chapter. The WileyPLUS Chapter Exam can only be taken ONE TIME.
The time limit allowed is One HOUR for the Chapter Exams. You may use your book and notes to help
you answer the quiz. I will post the grade from each Chapter Exam when it is graded and posted by
WilelyPLUS The result sheet from WileyPLUS will be submitted to the student by the Instructor.
WileyPLUS 4. Log in to WileyPLUS prior to studying each chapter and complete the Pre-Lecture Quiz for that
chapter.
5. The percentage scores will be averaged and used as the calculation of your final class grade.
Computer problems are not a valid reason for failure to complete and submit required work by the
deadline. Plan your schedule accordingly and avoid procrastination.
Numerous resources are available to facilitate self-study of each chapter including objectives,
flashcards, puzzles, video clips, audio podcast, activities, and practice quizzes. The materials are
accessible through the link to WileyPLUS on our course homepage in Blackboard. There will be
assignments requiring the use of these resources.
IMPORTANT NOTE: You should log on to the course website and WileyPLUS as soon as possible in the first
week of the semester in order to make sure that you have appropriate access to the resources available. You
will need an email to log in to the website resources. The AC firewall will block “hotmail” and “Yahoo” email
addresses. You must use your Angelina College student email address to avoid firewall problems.
C. Course Policies - (This course conforms to the policies of Angelina College as stated in the Angelina College
Handbook.)
Academic Assistance –
If you have a disability (as cited in Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 or Title II of the Americans
with Disabilities Act of 1990) that may affect your participation in this class, you should see Karen Bowser,
Room 208 of the Student Center. At a post- secondary institution, you must self-identify as a person with a
Disability; Mrs. Bowser will assist you with the necessary Information. To do so. Angelina College (AC)
admits students without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, disability, or age. Inquiries
regarding the non-discrimination policies of AC should be directed to: Dr. Patricia McKenzie, Vice President
and Dean of Instruction, 3500 South first, Lufkin, TX 75902, telephone 936-5201.
Attendance It is the student’s responsibility to attend classes regularly in accordance with school policy. Roll will be
taken at each class meeting.
1. We will adhere to the college’s absentee policy; 3 consecutive absences (2 consecutive during summer
courses) will result in you being dropped from the class. Four total absences (3 during the summer)
will result in your being dropped as well. Attendance roll will be signed at each class meeting. (2
consecutive or 4 accumulative absences) then a drop form may be submitted to the admission office.
The Admissions Office will notify you if this occurs. You May be readmitted to the class following the
first drop by obtaining a Re-Admit Form from the Admissions Office and upon approval of the
instructor. Any absences may result in a second drop, which will be final. It is not permissible for you to
attend class only on the day of each test. After the drop date, attendance will continue to be kept. You
will be dropped from the class and receive a failing grade for none attendance after the drop date.
2. If a student is late for a class, it is his/her responsibility to ask the Instructor to erase the “absence” for
that class. Should the student not take responsibility to do so, then the student will be counted absent.
PLAGIARISM/ CHEATING:
Plagiarism (Intentional or Unintentional), Collusion or Cheating (in any form) will result in a grade of 0 on the
exam or assignment involved and will have a serious impact on the overall course grade. Each student’s work
must be “original” and their own work.
The following standards, policies, and restrictions apply to all students.
1. It is to be clearly understood that a student is responsible for fulfilling all assignments ON TIME. Any work
missed will be assigned a “0”.
2. Instructors are in no way responsible for advising a student of what assignments or tests have been missed
during an absence. It is the student’s responsibility to find out what work was done and what assignments
were made during an absence by consulting the posted information on Blackboard. Students should consult
the syllabus and the posting on Blackboard for the schedule of assignments and exams. Ignorance of a test
or assignment will not excuse that person from taking the test or turning in the assignment with the rest of
the class.
3. If the student is absent from a class on the day an assignment is due, the Instructor is under no obligation to
allow the student to make up the assignment (or turn it in late).
If absent because of a school trip, you will be expected to complete all assignments and exams before the
trip and provide documentation from school authorities regarding the nature of the trip.
4. The lowest of the unit exam scores or Chapter Exam average score from MyPsychLabPlus will be dropped
before your final point total is calculated. If you miss an exam for any reason, the grade entered will be
“0” and that will be dropped as your lowest exam grade.
Class Conduct and Participation:
1. Usage of Cell Phones, Pagers, Laptops, recorders, headphones, ear buds, or similar devices will NOT be
allowed in class for any reason. All such devices must be turned off and put away before class begins. If
they are used in class, you will be asked to leave and will dropped from the class. If they are placed on
your desk during an exam, you will be dropped from the class.
2. Please do not disrupt my class by leaving before the class is over. Do not talk out when I am talking, or
when your fellow students are talking. It is disrespectful and disruptive. However, I do encourage you to
speak your mind and give your opinion. It is valuable to the discussion because your comments and
questions may be helpful to someone else in the class. If we work together we can have a wonderful
semester. Do not prepare to leave the classroom until class is dismissed. Leaving before class is dismissed
constitutes an absence.
3. No eating, drinking, dipping, smoking or sleeping in class.
PROTECT YOUR GPA! To avoid getting an F in this or any class, if and when you decide to no longer attend
class, DROP THE CLASS OFFICIALLY!
Walk-Outs
Do not walk out of my class! You are expected to remain in class until the class is dismissed. Three walkouts will be counted as an absent day (two for summer classes). If it is absolutely necessary that you be
absent or if you have to leave early contact me. The responsibility for dropping a class lies with the student.
Expectations
I expect you to read the textbook. Do not get behind in your reading. If you get behind; you will fail. I expect
you to work hard in my class. Make earning an A your goal. But you may not earn an “A”, but the only way to
do well in any course is to shoot for the A.
Exams and Make-up Exam
Test may be taken prior to scheduled test day at my discretion.
Assigned Work
Please make two copies of all assigned work submitted. Submit one to me, and keep one for yourself
throughout the duration of the semester, in case of assignments being lost or misdirected. You are
responsible for all information in the book. You are responsible for asking me about missed work.
Part of my job as an Instructor is not only to teach you Psychology, but to prepare you for what lies ahead,
whether it is joining the work force or more years as a student. I take my job seriously.
VII. COURSE CONTENT:
A. Required Content/Topics - (Common to all sections)
Please refer to Attached
COURSE OUTLINE
B. Additional Content/Topics Relevant material will be provided as necessary.
VIII. EVALUATION AND GRADING:
A. Grading Criteria (Percents, extra credit, etc)
B. ASSIGNMENT OF GRADES:
A: 88 -100
B: 78 -87
C: 68 -77
D: 58 -66
F: 57 and below
C. (Assignment of Letter Grades)
Final l Class Letter Grade
1. The final class grade will be based on four (4) exams, homework Chapter Exams, (Personality) Attendance,
2. Cheating or assisting others to cheat will result in an "F".
3. Exams and assignments will be discussed individually with students upon request.
4. Each student's work must be original and their own work. Do not copy the information
for your paper from your text or any other text. Do not copy the information for your paper
from a published article, book, journal, research paper or from a former paper written in
another class.
5. The Instructor will be available for consultation by appointment.
Research Paper: Follow APA (American Psychological Association) Check APA online OR Angelina
Library. Also, use a Rubic to check requirements for paper.
1. Cover Sheet –
2. Abstract
3. Information used in your research – At least 5 pages (Double Spaced)
4, Reference Sheet – At least five (5) citing the authors & place found. (book, articles, journals)
5. Blank Sheet – for grades and my comments
6. Staple together before you turn in the paper.
7. NO LATE PAPERS.
COURSE OUTLINE
PSYCHOLOGY (GENERAL)– 2301
PART I –
PART II –
PART III –
FAMILY OF ORIGIN: DUE – SEPT. 18, 2013
RESEARCH PAPER: DUE – NOV. 20, 2013VII: SYLLABUS MODIFICATION:
The instructor may modify the provisions of the syllabus to meet the needs by
informing the class in advance to the changes being made.
PART IV –