Discusses an interdisciplinary course on the psychology and philosophy of William James. Describes course organization and goals. Explains that the course includes sections on James' life and personal characteristics, his psychological and philosophical works, and specific psychological and philosophical topics that he addressed. Assesses…

Argues that, within the study of cognitive psychology, the theme of intelligence provides a powerful way of unifying the disparate material of a wide-ranging course. Discusses historical perspectives on intelligence, how it unifies cognitive psychology, and classroom activities to link cognitive psychology to intelligence. (DSK)

Reviews the topical content and structure of undergraduate community psychology courses, identified via university websites, by examining 24 syllabi. Reveals that prevention is the most frequent topic, "Community Psychology" was the most used text, and research review projects were required in 83% of the courses. (CMK)

An introductory psychology course which used undergraduate-taught minicourses and the Personalized System of Instruction (PSI) approach is described. (DE)

Surveys entry-level psychology majors and non-majors before and after taking an introductory psychology course to determine their interest in topics covered in the course. Shows that students are interested in topics relating to their immediate individual needs. Discusses implications for course content and organization. (Author/LS)

Weekly testing coupled with a mastery performance requirement generated higher student performance in an introductory psychology class. (DE)

Describes the role of the undergraduate course assistant as an integral part of the design strategy for an introductory educational psychology course at Purdue University. (Author)

Examines a model for identifying homogeneous subgroups within the larger heterogeneous group found in an introductory psychology course. In order to increase the number of individuals able to succeed within a class, teachers must direct their attention toward the underlying processes of task performance and the characteristic ways in which…

Reports findings of a class exercise in which students are asked to discuss their perceptions of college classes likely to result in high and low classroom motivation. Identifies eight characteristics that encourage motivation: (1) enthusiasm, (2) relevance, (3) organization, (4) appropriate difficulty level, (5) active involvement, (6) variety,…

Good teaching involves making decisions about the organization of course content, leading students toward comprehending course material, and providing evaluative information (testing) to enhance long-term retention and retrieval. Though teaching is often evaluated by students and peers, self-appraisal is the most significant "feedback" most…

Surveys two universities regarding their use of and views toward extra-credit assignments. Findings show faculty were more likely to view such assignments negatively, citing the disadvantage of extra credit as encouraging irresponsible attitudes. Students disagree and emphasize the advantage of a second chance. (NL)

Contends that infusing black psychology into an introductory psychology course can help students learn about the impact of social, economic, and cultural factors on psychological development. Provides a rationale, lecture outline, and resource list to assist teachers in incorporating black psychology in their courses. Reports that African-American…

Argues that the bulk of most undergraduate psychology curriculum is geared towards preparing students for graduate study. Proposes several specific curriculum changes designed to give the general undergraduate a working and useful knowledge of some of the fundamental concepts concerning psychology. Includes course outlines and structured…

Examines a community psychology course that stresses community empowerment, the myth of neutrality and objectivity in community psychology, and democratic accountability to the community. The course includes a brief history of race, class, and gender oppression in South Africa and concludes with a unit on converting social theory into practice.…