Giving Psychology Away

Description

Psychology is making a significant difference in peoples' lives, both in a broad manner as well as in specific application.  In this year-long program, students will: 1) examine basic empirical research, from psychology’s history to the present, that has led to creative application of the findings in individual, group, and community endeavors; 2) learn the general and specific methodology and strategies that influence individual lives as well as interpersonal interactions in public and private settings; 3) develop a personal theoretical orientation for influencing change; and 4) create a conceptual instructional module regarding a specific life domain (relationships, work, parenting, health, leisure, etc.) for implementation in a setting relevant to their future goals or careers (education, social services, business, government, criminal justice, medicine, economics, etc.).  This program is designed to foster advanced comprehension and analysis of the material, enhance critical thinking, and build a skill base that can be applied for the social good.  Each quarter builds on previous material, so the intention is for students to continue through the year, culminating in a final spring project.

We will use a variety of instructional strategies such as small and large group seminars, lectures, workshops, films, role-playing, field trips, guest lectures, and videoconferences with prominent contemporary psychologists. The material covered in this program is relevant to daily living as well as preparatory for careers and future studies across all disciplines.