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Steven J. Barnes
This psychology course is an introduction to the field of psychology. It begins by asking “What is Psychology?” and provides some concrete answers to that question. Next, it covers the history of psychology and provides a look at the state of psychology today.
Read more
This psychology course is an introduction to the field of psychology. It begins by asking “What is Psychology?” and provides some concrete answers to that question. Next, it covers the history of psychology and provides a look at the state of psychology today.
Read more
This psychology course is an introduction to the field of psychology. It begins by asking “What is Psychology?” and provides some concrete answers to that question. Next, it covers the history of psychology and provides a look at the state of psychology today.
This course will provide you with research-based study tips — to help you in this course and in the future. You will learn the methods a psychologist uses in their research. From experimental design to coverage of some basic statistics — by the end of this course you will have a comprehensive appreciation for the methods of psychology.
This course includes video-based lectures and demonstrations, interviews with real research psychologists and a plethora of practice questions to help prepare you for the AP® Psychology exam.
This is the first in our six-course AP® Psychology sequence designed to prepare you for the AP® Psychology exam.
Additional Courses:
AP® Psychology - Course 2: How the Brain Works
AP® Psychology - Course 3: How the Mind Works
AP® Psychology - Course 4: How Behavior Works
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/019nfm/ap(r)
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What's inside
Learning objectives
- What psychology is and is not
- The history of the field of psychology and the state of contemporary psychology
- Research-based study skills
- The research methods of psychology, including descriptive methods, correlational methods and experimental methods
- The basics of descriptive and inferential statistics
- What psychology is and is not
- The history of the field of psychology and the state of contemporary psychology
- Research-based study skills
- The research methods of psychology, including descriptive methods, correlational methods and experimental methods
- The basics of descriptive and inferential statistics
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Prepares learners for the AP® Psychology exam
Provides a comprehensive introduction to the field of psychology
Covers the history of psychology and provides a look at the state of psychology today
Offers research-based study tips
Explores the methods psychologists use in their research, including experimental design and basic statistics
Includes video-based lectures and demonstrations, interviews with real research psychologists, and practice questions
Save this course
Save AP® Psychology - Course 1: What is Psychology? to your list so you can find it easily later:
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Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in AP® Psychology - Course 1: What is Psychology? with these
activities:
Practice writing in a scientific style through active recall
Show steps
Refreshes and develops foundational writing skills required to interpret and present psychology research.
Browse courses on
Scientific Writing
Show steps
-
Generate a list of key terms, concepts, and research within psychology
-
Describe, explain, and provide examples for each of these terms, concepts, and research findings
-
Summarize the main ideas and conclusions of a recent psychology research article
-
Critique a psychology research article, identifying strengths, weaknesses, and potential biases
Engage in group discussions on psychological concepts
Show steps
Fosters critical thinking, communication skills, and deeper understanding of psychological concepts through active engagement with peers.
Show steps
-
Form study groups with classmates
-
Select a specific chapter or topic from the course material for discussion
-
Take turns presenting key concepts and facilitating discussions
Assemble a collection of research articles on a specific psychological topic
Show steps
Develops research skills and deepens understanding of a specific psychological topic by compiling and analyzing relevant research literature.
Show steps
-
Identify a specific psychological topic of interest
-
Search academic databases for relevant research articles
-
Read, summarize, and critically evaluate the selected articles
-
Organize and present the findings in a coherent manner
Two other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all five activities
Attend a workshop on research methods in psychology
Show steps
Provides hands-on experience with research design, data collection, and analysis techniques, enhancing understanding and application of research principles.
Browse courses on
Research Methods
Show steps
-
Identify a relevant research methods workshop
-
Attend the workshop and actively participate in activities
-
Apply the learned techniques to a research project
Contribute to an open-source software project in psychology
Show steps
Involves learners in the development and refinement of real-world software tools used in psychological research, fostering problem-solving skills and a deeper understanding of software applications in the field.
Browse courses on
Open Source
Show steps
-
Identify an open-source software project in psychology
-
Learn the basics of the project and its coding language
-
Fix bugs, add features, or improve documentation
Practice writing in a scientific style through active recall
Show steps
Refreshes and develops foundational writing skills required to interpret and present psychology research.
Browse courses on
Scientific Writing
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Generate a list of key terms, concepts, and research within psychology
- Describe, explain, and provide examples for each of these terms, concepts, and research findings
- Summarize the main ideas and conclusions of a recent psychology research article
- Critique a psychology research article, identifying strengths, weaknesses, and potential biases
Engage in group discussions on psychological concepts
Show steps
Fosters critical thinking, communication skills, and deeper understanding of psychological concepts through active engagement with peers.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Form study groups with classmates
- Select a specific chapter or topic from the course material for discussion
- Take turns presenting key concepts and facilitating discussions
Assemble a collection of research articles on a specific psychological topic
Show steps
Develops research skills and deepens understanding of a specific psychological topic by compiling and analyzing relevant research literature.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify a specific psychological topic of interest
- Search academic databases for relevant research articles
- Read, summarize, and critically evaluate the selected articles
- Organize and present the findings in a coherent manner
Two other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all five activities
Attend a workshop on research methods in psychology
Show steps
Provides hands-on experience with research design, data collection, and analysis techniques, enhancing understanding and application of research principles.
Browse courses on
Research Methods
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify a relevant research methods workshop
- Attend the workshop and actively participate in activities
- Apply the learned techniques to a research project
Contribute to an open-source software project in psychology
Show steps
Involves learners in the development and refinement of real-world software tools used in psychological research, fostering problem-solving skills and a deeper understanding of software applications in the field.
Browse courses on
Open Source
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify an open-source software project in psychology
- Learn the basics of the project and its coding language
- Fix bugs, add features, or improve documentation
Career center
Learners who complete AP® Psychology - Course 1: What is Psychology? will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
School Psychologist
School Psychologist
School psychologists work with students, parents, and teachers to provide mental health services in schools. They help students to cope with academic and social challenges, and they provide counseling and therapy to students who are experiencing mental health issues. This course, What is Psychology?, can help you build a foundation in the field of psychology, providing you with an understanding of the history of psychology, research methods and their applications in psychology, and basic statistics.
Forensic Psychologist
Forensic Psychologist
Forensic psychologists work with the legal system to provide psychological evaluations and testimony. They help to assess the mental health of defendants, victims, and witnesses, and they provide expert testimony in court. This course, What is Psychology?, can help you build a foundation in the field of psychology, providing you with an understanding of the history of psychology, research methods and their applications in psychology, and basic statistics.
Mental Health Counselor
Mental Health Counselor
Mental health counselors provide therapy and counseling to people with mental health issues. They help patients to cope with their symptoms and develop strategies for managing their mental health. This course, What is Psychology?, can help you build a foundation in the field of psychology, providing you with an understanding of the history of psychology, research methods and their applications in psychology, and basic statistics.
Psychologist
Psychologist
Psychologists often work with patients who are experiencing mental health issues, providing therapy and counseling to help them cope with their symptoms. This course, What is Psychology?, can help you build a foundation in the field of psychology, providing you with an understanding of the history of psychology, research methods and their applications in psychology, and basic statistics.
Psychiatrist
Psychiatrist
Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of mental illness. They use a variety of methods to treat patients, including medication, psychotherapy, and counseling. This course, What is Psychology?, can help you build a foundation in the field of psychology, providing you with an understanding of the history of psychology, research methods and their applications in psychology, and basic statistics.
Clinical Psychologist
Clinical Psychologist
Clinical psychologists diagnose and treat mental health disorders. They use a variety of methods to treat patients, including psychotherapy, counseling, and medication management. This course, What is Psychology?, can help you build a foundation in the field of psychology, providing you with an understanding of the history of psychology, research methods and their applications in psychology, and basic statistics.
Substance Abuse Counselor
Substance Abuse Counselor
Substance abuse counselors help people who are struggling with addiction to alcohol or drugs. They provide counseling and support to help patients overcome their addiction and maintain sobriety. This course, What is Psychology?, can help you build a foundation in the field of psychology, providing you with an understanding of the history of psychology, research methods and their applications in psychology, and basic statistics.
Social Worker
Social Worker
Social workers help people to cope with a variety of social problems, such as poverty, homelessness, and mental illness. They provide counseling and support to help people improve their lives and achieve their goals. This course, What is Psychology?, can help you build a foundation in the field of psychology, providing you with an understanding of the history of psychology, research methods and their applications in psychology, and basic statistics.
Marriage and Family Therapist
Marriage and Family Therapist
Marriage and family therapists help couples and families to resolve relationship issues. They provide counseling and support to help couples and families improve their communication, resolve conflicts, and build stronger relationships. This course, What is Psychology?, can help you build a foundation in the field of psychology, providing you with an understanding of the history of psychology, research methods and their applications in psychology, and basic statistics.
Human Resources Manager
Human Resources Manager
Human resources managers oversee the human resources department of an organization. They are responsible for recruiting, hiring, and training employees, as well as developing and implementing employee policies and programs. This course, What is Psychology?, can help you build a foundation in the field of psychology, providing you with an understanding of the history of psychology, research methods and their applications in psychology, and basic statistics.
Organizational Psychologist
Organizational Psychologist
Organizational psychologists work with organizations to improve employee performance and satisfaction. They conduct research on organizational behavior and develop and implement interventions to improve employee motivation, productivity, and well-being. This course, What is Psychology?, can help you build a foundation in the field of psychology, providing you with an understanding of the history of psychology, research methods and their applications in psychology, and basic statistics.
Training and Development Manager
Training and Development Manager
Training and development managers oversee the training and development programs of an organization. They are responsible for developing and implementing training programs, as well as evaluating the effectiveness of training programs. This course, What is Psychology?, can help you build a foundation in the field of psychology, providing you with an understanding of the history of psychology, research methods and their applications in psychology, and basic statistics.
Guidance Counselor
Guidance Counselor
Guidance counselors work with students to help them make educational and career choices. They provide counseling and support to help students develop their academic skills, explore their interests, and prepare for college and careers. This course, What is Psychology?, can help you build a foundation in the field of psychology, providing you with an understanding of the history of psychology, research methods and their applications in psychology, and basic statistics.
User Experience Researcher
User Experience Researcher
User experience researchers study how users interact with products and services. They conduct research to identify user needs and preferences, and they develop and implement design solutions to improve the user experience. This course, What is Psychology?, can help you build a foundation in the field of psychology, providing you with an understanding of the history of psychology, research methods and their applications in psychology, and basic statistics.
Market Researcher
Market Researcher
Market researchers study consumer behavior and trends. They conduct research to identify consumer needs and preferences, and they develop and implement marketing campaigns to reach target customers. This course, What is Psychology?, can help you build a foundation in the field of psychology, providing you with an understanding of the history of psychology, research methods and their applications in psychology, and basic statistics.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/019nfm/ap(r)
Reading list
We've selected 29 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
AP® Psychology - Course 1: What is Psychology?.
This introductory textbook covers the major topics in psychology in an engaging and accessible way. It is commonly used as a textbook in introductory psychology courses at academic institutions.
This comprehensive textbook provides a thorough overview of the field of psychology, including the history of psychology, research methods, and the major subfields of psychology.
This encyclopedia provides a comprehensive overview of the field of social and behavioral sciences, covering topics such as the history of the social and behavioral sciences, the different subfields of the social and behavioral sciences, and the latest research findings.
This handbook provides a comprehensive overview of the field of psychology, covering topics such as the history of psychology, the different subfields of psychology, and the latest research findings.
This encyclopedia provides a comprehensive overview of the field of social and behavioral sciences, covering a wide range of topics. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the field of psychology and its applications.
This encyclopedia provides a comprehensive overview of the field of psychology, covering a wide range of topics. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the field of psychology and its applications.
This handbook provides a comprehensive overview of the field of psychology, including the history of psychology, the major subfields of psychology, and the current state of research in psychology.
This encyclopedia provides a comprehensive overview of the field of psychology, including the history of psychology, the major subfields of psychology, and the current state of research in psychology.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of social psychology, covering the major theories, research methods, and applications. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the social factors that influence behavior.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of psychology, covering the history, major theories, and contemporary research. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the field of psychology and its applications.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of the field of psychology, including the history of psychology, the major subfields of psychology, and the current state of research in psychology.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the science of psychology, covering the major theories, research methods, and applications. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the scientific study of behavior.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of the field of social psychology, including the study of social cognition, social influence, and social relationships.
Is written in a clear and concise style, making it easy for beginners to understand the basic concepts of psychology. It covers a wide range of topics, from the history of psychology to the latest research findings.
Applies psychological principles to everyday life, helping readers to understand how psychology can help them make better decisions and live happier lives.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of the field of cognitive psychology, including the study of memory, attention, language, and problem-solving.
Save
This handbook provides a comprehensive overview of the methods used in positive psychology, covering topics such as research design, data analysis, and interpretation.
This textbook provides an overview of the biological bases of behavior, including the nervous system, hormones, and genetics.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of cognitive psychology, covering the major theories, research methods, and applications. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the cognitive processes that underlie behavior.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of the field of psychology, including the history of psychology, the major subfields of psychology, and the current state of research in psychology.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of abnormal psychology, covering the major theories, research methods, and applications. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the causes and treatment of mental illness.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of developmental psychology, covering the major theories, research methods, and applications. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the physical, cognitive, and social development of children and adolescents.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of the field of abnormal psychology, including the study of mental disorders, their causes, and their treatment.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of behavioral neuroscience, covering the major theories, research methods, and applications. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the biological basis of behavior.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of the psychology of aging, covering the major theories, research methods, and applications. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the psychological factors that affect aging.
Save
Is written in a conversational style, making it easy for beginners to read and understand. It covers a wide range of topics, from the history of psychology to the latest research findings.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of positive psychology, covering the major theories, research methods, and applications. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the psychological factors that affect happiness and well-being.
Save
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of learning and memory, covering topics such as classical conditioning, operant conditioning, cognitive psychology, and memory.
Save
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of cognition, covering topics such as attention, perception, memory, language, problem solving, and decision making.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/019nfm/ap(r)
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Effort
8 to 12 hours per week for 3 weeks
Level
Introductory
Via
edX
Institution
University of British Columbia
Instructor
Steven J. Barnes
Language
English
Transcript
English
Good to know
Prepares learners for the AP® Psychology exam
Provides a comprehensive introduction to the field of psychology
Covers the history of psychology and provides a look at the state of psychology today
Offers research-based study tips
Explores the methods psychologists use in their research, including experimental design and basic statistics
Includes video-based lectures and demonstrations, interviews with real research psychologists, and practice questions
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