Common Course Outline

Course discipline/number/title PSYC 2618: General Psychology

Catalog Description

Credits 4
Hours/Week 4 (4 lecture)
Prerequisites (Course discipline/number) None
Other requirements College level reading and writing skills recommended
MnTC Goals (if any) Goal 5/History and the Social and Behavioral Sciences, Goal 7a/Human Diversity

Course Description

This course is an introduction to the scientific study of human behavior and mental processes. The topics covered will include research methods, the biological roots of behavior, sensation, perception, principles of learning, memory, thinking, language, intelligence, emotions, stress, personality, psychological disorders, therapy, and social psychology.

Date Last Revised (Month, year)

November, 2024

Outline of Major Content Areas

  1. Historical roots of psychology
  2. Psychological research methods
  3. The biological bases of behavior
  4. Life span development
  5. Cognitive and behavioral processes
  6. Individual psychological processes
  7. Social processes
  8. Mental health

Learning Outcomes (General)

The student will be able to:

  1. Demonstrate familiarity with the major concepts, theoretical perspectives, and empirical findings of psychology.
  2. Demonstrate an understanding of basic research methods in psychology, including research design, data analysis, and interpretation.
  3. Describe the history of psychology and how it is distinct from related disciplines such as sociology and philosophy.
  4. Utilize critical thinking to solve problems related to behavior and mental processes.
  5. Apply psychological principles to personal and social issues.
  6. Demonstrate an understanding of diversity-related issues in psychology.

Learning Outcomes (MnTC)

Goal 5/History and the Social and Behavioral Sciences

The student will be able to:

  1. Employ the methods and data that historians and social and behavioral scientists use to investigate the human condition.
  2. Use and critique alternative explanatory systems or theories.
  3. Develop and communicate alternative explanations or solutions for contemporary social issues.
Goal 7a/Human Diversity

The student will be able to:

  1. Demonstrate an awareness of the individual and institutional dynamics of unequal power relations among groups in contemporary society.
  2. Analyze their own attitudes, behaviors, concepts, and beliefs regarding diversity, racism, and bigotry.
  3. Demonstrate communication skills necessary for living and working effectively in a society with great popular diversity.

Methods for Evaluation of Student Learning

Methods may include but are not limited to:

RCTC Core Outcome(s)

This course contributes to meeting the following RCTC Core Outcome(s):

Critical Thinking
Students will think systematically and explore information thoroughly before accepting or formulating a position or conclusion.

Special Information (if any)

None