Course Descriptions in Psychology

 

PSYC 1105 E - Introduction to Psychology

Prerequisite to all other PSYC courses.  A survey of contemporary psychology with reference to its historical development and emphasis on its present status and scientific methodology. Examines the biosocial bases of behaviour, development and personality, motivation, emotion, perception, and learning. Involves scaling of behavioural variables, some descriptive statistics, and some elementary experiments and other practical work.  Students must achieve a min. 60% grade to continue in a Psychology program. (lec 2, lab/tut 1) cr 6


PSYC 2005 E - Developmental Psychology

Examines human development from conception onwards, with some reference to evolutional psychology. Involves the study of the norms and processes of physical, intellectual, emotional, and social changes through the times of childhood, adolescence, adulthood, and senescence. PREREQ: PSYC 1105. (lec 2, tut 1) cr 6


STAT 2126 E - Introduction to Statistics

Provides an introduction to basic statistical concepts and techniques that are common to all disciplines in the Social Sciences.  The principal topics include data collection and description, the characteristics and features of the normal probability distribution, the formulation and testing of hypotheses, linear correlation and regression analyses. (lec 3) cr 3


PSYC 2127 E - Scientific Method and Analysis II

Examines research methods and design of experiments. Students will study a variety of inferential statistical procedures. PREREQ: STAT 2126 or equivalent statistics course (min. 60%). (lec 2, tut 1) cr 3


PSYC 2606 E - Brain and Behaviour

An introduction to the general relationships between human brain and human behaviour. Human behaviour, including sleep, dreams, memory, thought, motivation, and emotion are discussed in terms of brain structure, chemistry, and electrical activity. Both known facts and realistic possibilities of brain function are considered. Some emphasis is placed on the contribution of psychological (and social) factors to brain structure, physiology, and human disease. A general introduction to psychopharmacology is offered.  Prior high school courses in biology and chemistry are helpful.  PREREQ: PSYC 1105 or 1st-year science course (preferably chemistry or biology). (lec 3, lab 3) cr 3


PSYC 2617 E - Human Neuropsychology

Examines normal behavioural and psychological correlates of the human brain. Pathological behaviours following trauma to different brain regions are discussed. Special emphasis is placed on the neurological aspects of psychosis, epilepsy, genetic disorders, and demyelinating diseases. Diagnostic tests, simple neurological evaluations, and phylogenetic comparisons of brain function are considered. The student is expected to have a fair understanding of brain nomenclature. PREREQ: PSYC 2606. (lec 2, lab 1) cr 3


PSYC 2656 E - Physiological Psychology

The goal of this course is to examine how biological factors shape the behaviour of organisms.  Students will be given an overview of how evolutionary forces have shaped our development and will also be introduced to how the principles of biology can be used to the study of mental processes and behavior.  PREREQ: PSYC 1105.  (lec 3) cr 3


 PSYC 2706 E - Emotion

A study of emotion in human beings and animals. Includes the many theories and experiments concerning behavioural, instinctual, physiological, and cognitive aspects of emotion and the study of emotional conflicts and defense mechanisms. PREREQ: PSYC 1105. (lec 2, lab 1) cr 3


PSYC 2707 E - Motivation

A study of motivation in human beings and animals. Includes the many theories and experiments concerning behavioural, instinctual, physiological, and cognitive aspects of motivation. PREREQ: PSYC 1105. (lec 2, lab 1) cr 3


PSYC 2905 E - Receptor Processes and Perception

A scientific study of how organisms, especially humans, obtain information about their external and internal environments. Topics include: the physical stimuli, pertinent receptor processes, neural encoding, perceptual processing; the development of object perception; perceptual constancies, and distortions; the psychophysical methods, from classical methods to modern signal detection concepts and techniques. Prior scientific knowledge of elementary physics and biology is helpful. PREREQ: PSYC 1105. (lec 2, lab 1) cr 6


PSYC 3005 E - Personality and Adjustment 1 

A systematic description and evaluation of various personality theories and their application to personality assessment and personality change. Examines empirical findings regarding basic personality processes, personality development, and adjustment. PREREQ: PSYC 1105 plus 6 PSYC credits. (lec 3) cr 6


PSYC 3006 E - Personality and Adjustment

A systematic description and evaluation of various personality theories and their application to personality assessment and personality change.  Examines empirical findings regarding basic personality processes, personality development, and adjustment.  (lec 3) cr 3


PSYC 3156 E - Basic Research Practicum (NEW COURSE)

The Basic Research course is intended to provide third-year students, who are capable of succeeding in the Honours program in Psychology, with an opportunity to extend and integrate their knowledge of and skills in psychology through active participation in meaningful research projects under the supervision of a faculty member of the Department of Psychology. PREREQ: PSYC 2127 (3 Credit Hours, Experimental)


PSYC 3206 E - Fundamentals of Psychometrics

Examines the theoretical background of tests; the nature of psychological measurement; consistency and validity. Topics include: interpretation of test scores; measurement of achievements, abilities, personality and interest; using psychological tests in education, industry, and clinic; description of some of the widely used psychological tests; and ethical issues in psychological testing. PREREQ: PSYC 2127 or dept.'s permission. (lec 2, tut 1) cr 3


PSYC 3256 E - Design and Analysis I

Topics include: univariate analysis of variance including factorial designs; multiple regression; the design of complex psychological experiments; the gathering, scrutiny, and transformation of psychological data; performance and interpretation of advanced computer analyses. PREREQ: PSYC 2127 (min. 60%).  (lec 3, tut 1) cr 3


PSYC 3257 E - Design and Analysis II

Topics include: the logic and interpretation of multivariate and other statistical designs including factor analysis, analysis of covariance, discriminant analysis, canonical correlation and lag design; applications to psychological research; performance and interpretation of computer analyses. PREREQ: PSYC 3256. (lec 3, tut 1) cr 3


PSYC 3306 E - Learning

Topics include: types and mechanisms of learning, the variables and conditions which contribute to learning processes; a review of experimental findings and theoretical issues related to learning. PREREQ: PSYC 1105 plus 6 PSYC credits. (lec 3) cr 3


PSYC 3307 E - Laboratory in Learning and Memory

Several representative approaches to the study of learning and memory are examined in depth and students carry out experiments on each topic. Normally, students are expected to work with both animal and human subjects. PREREQ: PSYC 3306 and 2127, or dept.'s permission. (lec 1, lab/sem 4) cr 3


PSYC 3405 E - Psychology of Education

Topics include: principles of teaching and learning; relevance of physical, intellectual, emotional, and social development of the individual; an introduction into the research in educational psychology and assessment of attitudes, abilities, and achievement; creativity and originality; interpersonal relations and group dynamics of educational situations considering the assets and limitations of current educational practices; and the exceptional child in educational contexts. PREREQ: PSYC 1105 and 2005.  Students may not retain credit for both PSYC 3405 and EDUC 3006.


 

PSYC3406 Psychology of Education 1 (3 credits)

 

Topics include: principles of teaching and learning; relevance of physical, intellectual, emotional and social development of the individual; an introduction into the research in educational psychology and assessment of attitudes, abilities and achievement; creativity and originality; interpersonal relations and group dynamics of educational situations considering the assets and limitations of current educational practices; and the exceptional child in educational contexts. Prerequisite: PSYC 1106, PSYC 1107, PSYC 2006 and PSYC 2007 or PSYC 1106, PSYC 1107 and EDUC 2005 or PSYC 1106, PSYC 1107, 3 years relevant professional experience and department's permission. Students may not retain credit for both PSYC 3406 and PSYC 3405.


 PSYC 3506 E - Neuropharmacology

A detailed description and evaluation of drugs that influence human behaviour. Although the greatest emphasis is upon the biochemical mechanisms and psychological effects of drugs used within clinical settings, all major pharmacological classes are covered. Since prediction of drug effects requires an understanding of chemical pathways and their location within the human brain, the student should have a basic understanding of chemistry and neuroanatomy. PREREQ: PSYC 2606 & 2617, dept.'s permission. (lec 3) cr 3


PSYC 3507 E - Behavioural Neurobiology

A precise study of neuroanatomical details, neurochemistry, and neuroelectricity. Comparisons of human and rat brains are discussed in terms of both gross and specific behavioural patterns. Emphasis is placed on acquiring sufficient information to allow a more profound and versatile prediction of normal and abnormal human behaviour. PREREQ: PSYC 2606 & BIOL 1700 or 1505, or dept.'s permission.  (lec 3, lab 3) cr 3


PSYC 3605 E - Psychopathology 

A study of disordered behaviour, maladjustment, neuroses, personality disorders, and the psychoses. Includes a brief review of assessment and therapies. PREREQ: PSYC 1105 plus 6 PSYC credits. (lec 2, tut 1) cr 6


PSYC 3705 E - Cognitive Psychology

A review of the principal concepts and research concerning human thought and language. Topics usually discussed include memory, problem solving, reasoning, concept formation, the comprehension and production of language, cognitive development, and language development. PREREQ: PSYC 1105 plus 6 PSYC credits. (lec 2, lab 1) cr 6


PSYC 3706 E - Topics in Cognitive Psychology

This course will review the principal concepts and research concerning human thought and language. Topics discussed include memory, problem solving, reasoning, concept formation, the comprehension and production of language, cognitive development and language development.  Lecture format.  PREREQ: PSYC 1105 plus 6 PSYC credits.  (lec 3) cr 3.   Students may not retain credit for both PSYC 3706 and PSYC 3705.


PSYC 3707 E - Laboratory in Cognitive Psychology

This is a laboratory-based course on subjects of cognition such as: memory, language, object recognition, problem solving, thought, unconscious processes.  Students will learn how to prepare, perform, and present research in cognition.  PREREQ: PSYC 3706. (lec 3) cr 3.  Students may not retain credit for both PSYC 3707 and PSYC 3705.


 PSYC 3805 E - Social Psychology

Examines the methods of social psychology; conformity and normative behaviour; mass communication, propaganda, and persuasion; theories and measurements of attitudes; aggression, prejudice; interaction, attraction and encounter groups. PREREQ: PSYC 1105. (lec 2, sem 1) cr 6


PSYC 3906 E - Special Topics in Psychology I 

Advanced coverage of particular topics in psychology with accompanying practical work. Specific content varies from year to year, depending on which faculty member teaches the course. PREREQ: PSYC 1105 & dept.'s permission. (lec/tut 3) cr 3


PSYC 3907 E - Special Topics in Psychology II

Same description as PSYC 3906.  PREREQ: PSYC 1105 & dept.'s permission.  (lec/tut 3) cr 3


PSYC 3916 E - Advanced Readings in Psychology

Intended for the advanced student interested in a particular topic of psychology. The course is only given with the written consent of the instructor following arrangements made between the student and the instructor before registration. Restricted to 3rd- or 4th-year students of a specialized program with a min. 70% (B) overall average in PSYC courses.  PREREQ: dept.'s permission. cr 3


PSYC 3917 E - Special Projects Course

Advanced students who have demonstrated above average ability to design and execute empirical investigations may apply for this course through the department. Before registration, the student will submit a proposal to the department for approval. All experiments are expected to be completed under the supervision of a faculty member. The final product must be submitted in a form compatible for submission to a refereed scientific journal and is reviewed as specified by the department.  Restricted to 3rd- or 4th-year students of a specialized program with a min. 70% (B) overall average in PSYC courses.  PREREQ: dept.'s permission.  cr 3


PSYC 3926 E - Special Topics in Psychology III

Same description as PSYC 3906.  PREREQ: PSYC 1105 & dept.'s permission.  (lec/tut 3) cr 3


PSYC 3927 E - Special Topics in Psychology IV

Same description as PSYC 3906.  PREREQ: PSYC 1105 & dept.'s permission.  (lec/tut 3) cr 3


PSYC 4006 E - History of Psychology

This course consists of a survey of the historical development of psychology, with an introduction to major theories influential during that development. PREREQ: min. 42 PSYC credits in a specialized program or dept.'s permission.  (lec 3) cr 3


PSYC 4007 E - Contemporary Theory and Research in Psychology

This course consists of a survey of major theoretical approaches in contemporary psychology, with examination of major research questions and theories in different specialty areas. PREREQ: min. 42 PSYC credits in a specialized program or dept.'s permission.  (lec 3) cr 3


PSYC 4026 E - Forensic Psychology

Addresses issues on the interaction between psychology and law. Community mental health, court and prison milieus are studied. Also considers case studies and investigations focusing on offender populations. PREREQ: PSYC 1105 & 3605.  cr 3


PSYC 4104 E - Student's Investigation

An experimental or other empirical investigation (such as psychometric study) including a report on a psychological topic to be authorized and supervised by the department. Animal or human research requires review by the appropriate Laurentian Ethics Committee.  PREREQ: min. 42 PSYC credits in the specialized program , plus PSYC 3256 (min. 60%).  (lec 1, sem 2) cr 9


PSYC 4205 E - Fundamentals of Clinical and Counselling Psychology

An introduction to psychology in applied settings with an emphasis on the mental health field. Clinical assessment procedures, including psychometric devices, are examined as are the major theoretical positions in counselling and psychotherapy. Students are introduced to the scope of the work of the clinical psychologist in sessions with practitioners in the field. PREREQ: min. 42 PSYC credits in a specialized program (including PSYC 3605 or 3005) or 90 credits in Behavioural Neuroscience program or dept.'s permission. (lec 3) cr 6


PSYC 4306 E - Advanced Child Psychology I

Examines recent theories and research in a selected area of development. Designed for students who are especially interested in developmental issues. Students examine theoretical and methodological issues in a specific area of development. PREREQ: PSYC 2005 & dept.'s permission. cr 3


PSYC 4307 E - Advanced Child Psychology II

Same description as PSYC 4306.  PREREQ: PSYC 2005 & dept.'s permission. 3 cr


PSYC 4326 E - Developmental Psychology Practicum

Students complete a placement during the academic year (Sept-April) in one of the department's affiliated placement settings.  Students have a "hands-on" view of applied psychology and are expected to be able to apply their academic knowledge to benefit the host institution.  Limited enrolment.  PREREQ: min. 42 PSYC credits (including PSYC 2005) with a min. 70% (B) concentration average & dept.'s permission, plus acceptance by host institution. (exp. 39) cr 3


PSYC 4506 E - Advanced Experimental Psychology I

Examines recent theories and research in a selected field of experimental psychology. Restricted to students with a mininum of 42 Psychology credits.  Course prerequisites may apply.  (lec 3) cr 3


PSYC 4507 E - Advanced Experimental Psychology II

Examines recent theories and research in a selected field of experimental psychology.  Restricted to students with a minimum of 42 Psychology credits.  Course prerequisites may apply.  (lec 3) cr 3


PSYC 4706 E - Advanced Neuroanatomy

An advanced course in neuroanatomical circuitry. Learning of tract systems and nuclear groups of the brain is required in conjunction with their functions and as an outline reference for topographic brain chemistry. Normal and abnormal behaviours are viewed in terms of the neuroanatomical structures. Includes lab work and specialized techniques in neurosurgery for the rat. PREREQ: PSYC 2606 & 3507. (lec 3, lab 3) cr 3


PSYC 4707 E - Behaviour and the Electromagnetic Chemical Basis of Behaviour

A detailed analysis of data and theories concerned with the electrical, magnetic, and chemical correlates of behaviour and brain function. Two topics are centrally discussed: the physical mechanisms of memory and learning, and the electromagnetic and chemical features of thoughts and consciousness. The multifaceted aspects of behaviour, physiology and biochemistry are viewed with respect to measurable electrical and magnetic processes of living organisms. Course material assumes the student is familiar with neuroanatomical matrices. PREREQ: PSYC 2606 & 3507. (lec 3) cr 3


PSYC 4907 E - Current Developments in the Neurosciences

Students examine, in depth, current literature in the neurosciences. The course is designed to encourage integration of knowledge as a conclusion to the Neuroscience program, to facilitate the synthesis of new ideas, and to promote effective articulation (oral and written) of these ideas. PREREQ: min. 42 credits in Behavioural Neuroscience Program, or instructor's permission. cr 3

For further information on Psychology and You, contact: Claudette Larcher
Department of Psychology, Laurentian University, Sudbury, Ontario, Canada, P3E 2C6

 
 
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