Introduction to Psychology
Psych 2301
Baptist University of the Américas
Fall 2020
Virtual (Zoom), Wednesdays 9:30 am
Al Smith, Ph.D.
[Link]@[Link]
210-854-8964
I. Rationale
This course will explore the various aspects of the field of psychology, including
development, learning, personality, disorders, therapy, theories, and application. Each
student will be encouraged to understand and apply objectives to their own lives, to facilitate
emotional and spiritual growth.
Course Description:
Survey of major topics in psychology. Introduction to the study of behavior and the factors that
determine and affect behavior.
Required Textbook:
Myers, David G. Exploring Psychology in Modules, 8th ed. New York: Worth, 2009.
II. Course Aims and Objectives:
Student Learning Outcomes: As a requirement of the Bachelor of Arts degree in Human
Behavior, this course will assist the student to develop skills in the following areas:
1. Christian Character
2. Communication
3. Critical Thinking
4. Cross-Cultural Competence
5. Content Knowledge and Skills
After completion of this course, students should be able to:
1. Describe historical events in the development of Psychology as a science
2. Utilize critical thinking and evaluation skills through the utilization of the
scientific method applied to psychological concepts and research
3. Integrate principles of psychological science with their application in various
fields of human activity and behavior
4. Demonstrate understanding and appreciation of individual and cultural diversity
5. Reflect upon psychological principles and concepts in the context of the Christian
faith.
III. Format and Procedures:
Introduction to Psychology is designed as a survey course to help students explore the
major areas of study within the science of psychology. I will use a variety of teaching methods
to facilitate student learning and classroom interaction. Students are expected to complete their
assignments and come prepared to class. All written assignments should be submitted in English
in order to conform to our institutional objectives and to prepare us to serve in multi-cultural
environments. Therefore, tests will be administered in English.
IV. Course Requirements
1. Class attendance and participation policy (from BUA Catalog):
Regular and punctual attendance is expected of all students in all classes for which they have
registered. Absences are counted from the first day the class meets. If absences are necessary,
students should not be absent more than: Four times for a three-hour class that meets three times
a week, three times for a three-hour class that meets two times a week, or two times for a three-
hour class that meets one time a week. These absences include doctor’s visits, conferences, and
all other “excused” absences.
It is understood that many students attending BUA are commuters and that they may have to
travel considerable distances to attend classes. In case of inclement weather, students are asked
to use their own judgment in regard to road hazards. Students must remember that they are
responsible for consulting instructors about make-up work when such an absence occurs.
2. Use of technologies
The use of technologies for audio and video recording of lectures and other classroom activities
is allowed only with the express permission of the instructor. In cases where recordings are
allowed, such content is restricted to personal use only unless permission is expressly granted in
writing by the instructor and by other classroom participants, including other students. Personal
use is defined as use by an individual student for the purpose of studying or completing course
assignments.
3. Courtesies
Please observe the following simple courtesies. Turn off all cell phones BEFORE the lecture
begins. Please do not read or study for another class, or check your e-mail or send text messages
during lectures or films. Please try to arrive on time. If you must leave early, please let me
know beforehand. Do not carry on private conversations during lectures.
2. Required Textbook: Myers, David G. Exploring Psychology in Modules, 8th ed. New York:
Worth, 2009.
3. Exams and Assignments
Examinations
Two exams will be given this semester. Examinations will include a combination of objective
and essay questions. All questions will be from the textbook and classroom material. I will
prepare a review session for the class prior to the scheduled exams.
Reflections
Students will submit three Reflection Papers. All three Reflection Papers must be
completed by due dates listed in the syllabus (note: syllabus may be subject to change).
All submitted Reflection Papers must comply with the following guidelines:
• APA format
• Three - four pages total, including: cover page, one-two pages of your writing (minimum of 1
and half pages and NO MORE than three pages), and one reference page.
Reflection 1: Self Reflect
• Think about a specific behavior or set of behaviors you exhibit. Where did you learn it? Tell
me about the journey leading to the pre-mentioned behavior. Be sure to focus on your personal
lifespan journey thus far.
Reflection 2 : Historical Psychologist Reflection
• Select a psychologist featured in your textbook or lecture materials. Discuss the
major tenants of his/her research and/or theories in your own words (1-2
paragraphs).
• Discuss the reasons you are intrigued by his/her research and/or theory(ies).
• Discuss how you can apply the research and/or theory to your own life.
Reflection 3: Myers – Briggs Personality Type
Select a literary, biblical, or modern character/person and discuss what you believe his/her
Myers- Briggs typology is. Provide examples of why you believe this person fits into this type.
• He/She is Introverted or Extroverted because…
• He/She is Sensing or Intuitive because…
• He/She is Feeling or Thinking because…
• He/She is Perceiving or Judging because…
• Consider exploring how this person’s typology influenced his/her
choices, relationships, accomplishments, strengths, and weaknesses.
VI. Grading:
The following assignments will comprise your responsibilities during our study together:
Class Participation/Assignments 20%
Reflections 25%
Exams 55%
VII. Standard of Conduct: The BUA student is considered a responsible adult. The
student's enrollment indicates acceptance of the standards of conduct published in the
BUA Student Handbook.
VIII. Accommodations for Students with Disabilities
In compliance with the BUA policy and equal access laws, I am available to discuss appropriate
academic accommodations that may be required for student with disabilities. Requests for
academic accommodations should be made during the first three weeks of the semester, except
for unusual circumstances, so arrangements can be made. Students are encouraged to register
with Student Disability Services to verify their eligibility for appropriate accommodations.
IX. Subject to Change
This syllabus and schedule are subject to change in the event of extenuating circumstances. If
you are absent from class, it is your responsibility to check on announcements made while you
were absent.
Tentative Course Schedule:
Date Module Due
Aug 26 Introduction, Syllabus Review
Sep 2 Mod 1
Sep 9 Mod 2
Sep 16 Mod 3
Sep 23 Mod 4
Sep 30 Mod 5
Oct 7 Mod 6 Reflection 1
Oct 14 Fall Break
Oct 21 Mod 7 EXAM REVIEW
Oct 28 Mod 8 EXAM #1 EXAM
Nov 4 Mod 9
Nov 11 Mod 10 Reflection 2
Nov 18 Mod 11
Nov 25 Thanksgiving Holiday
Dec 2 Mod 12 EXAM REVIEW Reflection 3
Dec 9 Final FINAL EXAM EXAM
