The University of Tampa 1
Dr. Jordan A. Litman, Ph.D
jlitman@luna.cas.usf.edu
Office: TBA Phone: 974-7443
Office Hours: by appointment
General Psychology (PSY 200 E1) summer 2001
Plant Hall, Room 213 M & W 6:00 – 10:15 p.m.
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
This course will provide a broad survey of the field of psychology as a natural science. During each meeting we
will focus on a different topic in psychology (e.g., biological bases of behavior, perception, memory, language,
personality, and social behavior) and discuss its advantages, limitations, applications, and implications about mental
processes and behavior. I am particularly interested in fostering lively discussion and exchange regarding lecture
topics. The course will be divided into five separate “modules;” each module is comprised of assigned chapter
readings and of lecture material that are related by a particular research theme (e.g., biopsychology, cognitive
psychology, etc.).
TEXT BOOK(S):
Required:
Recommended:
Weiten, W. (2000). Psychology: Themes and Variations – Briefer Version (4th Ed.).
Belmont, CA: Wadsworth.
Stalling, R., & Wasden, R. (2000). Study Guide for Weiten’s Psychology: Themes and
Variations – Briefer Version (4th Ed.). Belmont, CA: Wadsworth.
COURSE OBJECTIVES AND GOALS:
- Provide the student with an understanding of the research methods and theories in psychology.
- Provide information to allow the student to compare, contrast, and evaluate psychological theories and
empirical findings.
- Use the information gained to understand one’s own and others behavior in practical and everyday
situations.
GRADING:
At the conclusion of each module, there will be an examination. Final grades are a summation of scores
obtained on the best 4 exams out of five, each worth 250 points. Therefore, it is possible to earn a total of
1000 points.
Points earned
1000 - 900
899 - 800
799 - 700
699 - 600
less than 600
Grade for Course
A
B
C
D
F
The exams will be non cumulative, and consist of multiple choice and essay questions. Each exam will be
based on approximately equal amounts of material, and be of about equal length and difficulty.
Make-up exams: Given only in the case of documented and serious illness. Arrangements must be
made BEFORE the scheduled exam date.
Grades will be posted after each exam on my website: http://luna.cas.usf.edu/~jlitman/UT_psych. Grades
will be listed by the last four digits of each student’s social security number. It is the responsibility of each
student to track her or his progress in the course.
The University of Tampa 2
ATTENDANCE & PARTICIPATION POLICY:
Attendance is expected at every class meeting. Students should come prepared to participate in class
discussions. Because much of the lecture will go beyond the scope of the text, it is important to attend
each and every lecture in order to benefit the most from this course.
A NOTE ABOUT THE NOTES:
My overheads will be available online at http://luna.cas.usf.edu/~jlitman/UT_psych, however, it is the
responsibility of the student (not the instructor!) to take and maintain good notes. You are strongly
encouraged to find at least one individual in the class to consult with regarding missing material should you
be absent due to illness.
ACADEMIC INTEGRITY:
Cheating, plagiarism, copying or any other behavior that is contrary to University standards will not be
tolerated. Any student found guilty of such an offense will be reported to the Dean of Students, and if
found guilty will be given an “F” for the final course grade.
STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES:
If there is any student who has special needs because of a disability, please go to the Dean of Students, Bob
Ruday, to report your needs and provide documentation of your disability for certification. Please feel free
to discuss this issue with me in private, if you need more information.
ABOUT YOUR INSTRUCTOR:
I received my B.A. in psychology from Beaver College (Glenside, PA) in 1994, and shortly thereafter
attended Saint Joseph’s University (Phila., PA). At Saint Joseph’s University, I began my graduate training
in experimental psychology, and first developed an interest in the study of curiosity and exploratory
behavior. In 1996, I continued my graduate work at the University of South Florida’s Cognitive and Neural
Sciences doctoral program, where I received my Ph.D. in 2000. My research has focused on examining
the role of individual differences in curiosity as a personality trait, and its relationship to the experience and
expression of state curiosity.
The University of Tampa 3
Approximate Calendar of Events
Date
MAY
Module
21
Class Objective/Discussion Topics
1: History & Systems
Introduction, theoretical foundations & research in
(about 3 chapters)
psychology,
23
Text:
Ch 1, 2 & Appendix B
End of module 1: Exam I
2: Biopsychology
Classical Conditioning & Operant Learning
Ch 6
(about 3 ½ chapters)
JUNE
28
OFF
30
The PNS and CNS / Neurons & Neurotransmitters
3 & 5 (pp. 149-154)
4
Sensation
Ch 4 (pp. 92-104, 113-129)
End of module 2: Exam II
6
3: Cognitive
Visual Perception & Attention
Ch. 4 (pp. 104-113)
& Attention handout
Psychology
(about 4 ½ chapters)
11
Memory, Language, thinking, & Awareness
Ch 7, 8 (pp. 222-233),
& rest of Ch. 5
13
Intelligence and Creativity & Problem solving
18
End of module 3: Exam III
4: Social & Personality
rest of Ch 8, 9
Social Psychology
Ch. 16
Personality, emotions, & motivation
Ch. 10, 12
Psychology
(about 3 chapters)
20
End of Module 4: Exam IV
25
5: Clinical & Health
Health Psychology &Psychological Disorders
Ch. 13, 14
Psychotherapy
Ch. 15
Psychology
(about 3 chapters)
27
End of Module 5: Exam V (FINAL EXAM)
NOTE: ALL EXAM TIMES (EXCEPT FOR THE FINAL) ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DUE TO
UNFORSEEN CIRCUMSTANCES. ANY CHANGES TO THE SYLLABUS WILL BE DISCUSSED IN
CLASS WITH AS MUCH ADVANCED NOTICE AS POSSIBLE, AND ALSO POSTED ON MY WEBSITE
( http://luna.cas.usf.edu/~jlitman/UT_psych) UNDER THE HEADING “ANNOUNCEMENTS”.