Behavior Architecture - Understanding Human Behavior from Coursera

Understanding human behavior can be quite challenging, even with numerous theories available. The fact that we're still struggling raises the question: why are we failing? Is it because we're not applying the theories properly, or could there be issues with the theories themselves? In this course, we'll explore the fascinating world of human behavior and the reasons behind our difficulties in understanding it. We'll investigate whether the problem lies in how we use the existing theories or if the theories themselves need improvement. Along the way, we'll also learn new strategies to better understand and influence human behavior.

This course is suitable for beginners and those with some knowledge, including professionals, students, and enthusiasts from diverse backgrounds. It is designed for individuals of all backgrounds and professions who are interested in exploring the world of human behavior.

By the end of this course, you'll be able to:

1. Develop a better understanding of traditional human behavior theories.

2. Establish a connection between the human brain and behavior.

3. Identify the loopholes in traditional human behavior theories.

4. Assess the importance of different factors that come into play in human decision-making.

5. Apply new techniques and strategies to influence human behavior the right way.

6. Gain paradigm-shifting knowledge about human behavior.

What's inside

Syllabus

Exploring Human Behavior

In this module, you'll explore the intricate connection between the human brain and behavior. Through an in-depth analysis of traditional human behavior theories, you'll will not only develop a nuanced understanding of established frameworks but also identify their inherent flaws and limitations.

Decision-making Decoded

In this module, you'll delve into the intricate world of human decision-making, gaining valuable insights into the multifaceted factors that shape choices. You'll also learn the significance of emotions, context, and heuristics as integral components influencing the decision-making process.

A Fresh Start

In this module, you'll gain profound insights for managing and influencing human behavior. You'll be able to apply these techniques and strategies that go beyond conventional approaches, enabling you to understand and influence human behavior the right way.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Looks great for psychology/behavioral science professionals, students, and enthusiasts seeking a better understanding of human behavior

Develops a solid foundation in traditional human behavior theories, enabling learners to understand their strengths and weaknesses

Helps learners establish a connection between the human brain and behavior, fostering a deeper comprehension of human actions

Provides comprehensive knowledge about the factors that influence human decision-making, empowering learners to better understand and predict behavior

Offers practical techniques and strategies for influencing human behavior the right way, enhancing learners' ability to lead and motivate

May not be suitable for learners with advanced knowledge in human behavior seeking a highly specialized or in-depth study

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 Behavior Architecture - Understanding Human Behavior with these activities:

Organize and review course notes, assignments, and readings

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Reinforce understanding by actively engaging with course materials.

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Regularly review course notes after each lecture or reading.
Organize notes using a system that works for you (e.g., outlining, color-coding).
Complete all assignments thoroughly and review them later.
Synthesize information from different sources (e.g., lectures, readings, discussions).

Review brain anatomy and function

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Understand the biological underpinnings of human behavior.

Browse courses on Brain Anatomy

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Read a textbook or article on brain anatomy and function.
Watch videos or documentaries on the topic.
Take a practice quiz or test on brain anatomy and function.

Join a study group or discussion forum on human behavior

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Engage with peers, share insights, and gain diverse perspectives on human behavior.

Browse courses on Human Behavior

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Identify or create a study group or discussion forum on human behavior.
Participate in regular meetings or discussions.
Share your own experiences and insights.
Listen attentively to others' perspectives.

Five other activities

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Explore online tutorials on human decision-making

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Gain additional insights and practical strategies for understanding decision-making.

Browse courses on Human Decision-Making

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Identify reputable online tutorials on human decision-making.
Follow the tutorials and complete any exercises or assignments.
Take notes and summarize key concepts.

Analyze case studies on human behavior

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Practice applying theories of human behavior to real-world situations.

Browse courses on Case Studies

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Read a case study on human behavior.
Identify the key factors that influenced the behavior.
Apply relevant theories to explain the behavior.
Discuss your findings with a classmate or instructor.

Read "Predictably Irrational" by Dan Ariely

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Gain insights into the irrational aspects of human behavior and their implications.

View Misbelief: What Makes Rational People Believe... on Amazon

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Obtain a copy of "Predictably Irrational" by Dan Ariely.
Read the book thoroughly and take notes.
Identify key concepts and theories presented in the book.
Consider how the insights from the book can be applied to your own life and interactions with others.

Volunteer at a local community center or non-profit organization

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Gain hands-on experience observing and interacting with people from diverse backgrounds.

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Identify a local community center or non-profit organization that aligns with your interests.
Contact the organization to inquire about volunteer opportunities.
Commit to a regular volunteer schedule.
Participate in activities and programs that involve interacting with people.

Develop a presentation on a specific human behavior theory

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Deepen understanding of a specific theory and improve communication skills.

Browse courses on Psychology

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Choose a specific human behavior theory.
Research the theory in-depth.
Develop a presentation that explains the theory clearly and concisely.
Practice your presentation.
Present your findings to a group.

Career center

Learners who complete Behavior Architecture - Understanding Human Behavior will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Marketing Manager

As a Marketing Manager, you will be responsible for developing and executing marketing campaigns that reach and engage target audiences. This course will help you understand how to identify and target the right customers, and how to create messaging that resonates with them. You will also learn how to use data and analytics to track the effectiveness of your campaigns.

See salaries and explore the career path for Marketing Manager

Product Manager

As a Product Manager, you will be responsible for the development and launch of new products. This course will help you understand the different stages of the product development process, and how to make decisions that will lead to successful product launches. You will also learn how to use data and analytics to track the performance of your products.

See salaries and explore the career path for Product Manager

Sales Manager

As a Sales Manager, you will be responsible for leading and motivating a team of sales representatives. This course will help you understand how to develop and implement sales strategies, and how to create a positive and productive sales culture. You will also learn how to use data and analytics to track the performance of your team.

See salaries and explore the career path for Sales Manager

Customer Success Manager

As a Customer Success Manager, you will be responsible for ensuring that customers are satisfied with their experience with a company's products or services. This course will help you understand how to build and maintain relationships with customers, and how to resolve any issues that they may have. You will also learn how to use data and analytics to track the satisfaction of your customers.

See salaries and explore the career path for Customer Success Manager

Business Analyst

As a Business Analyst, you will be responsible for analyzing business processes and identifying ways to improve them. This course will help you understand the different techniques used for business analysis, and how to make recommendations that will lead to improved business outcomes. You will also learn how to use data and analytics to support your analysis.

See salaries and explore the career path for Business Analyst

Data Analyst

As a Data Analyst, you will be responsible for collecting, cleaning, and analyzing data. This course will help you understand the different techniques used for data analysis, and how to use data to make informed decisions. You will also learn how to use data visualization tools to present your findings.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst

User Experience (UX) Designer

As a User Experience (UX) Designer, you will be responsible for designing and evaluating the user experience of websites and applications. This course will help you understand the different principles of UX design, and how to create user interfaces that are both usable and enjoyable. You will also learn how to use data and analytics to track the performance of your UX designs.

See salaries and explore the career path for User Experience (UX) Designer

Market Researcher

As a Market Researcher, you will be responsible for conducting research to understand the needs and wants of customers. This course will help you understand the different techniques used for market research, and how to collect and analyze data to make informed decisions. You will also learn how to use data visualization tools to present your findings.

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Human Resources (HR) Manager

As a Human Resources (HR) Manager, you will be responsible for managing the human resources function of an organization. This course will help you understand the different aspects of HR management, including recruiting, hiring, training, and employee relations. You will also learn how to use data and analytics to track the performance of your HR department.

See salaries and explore the career path for Human Resources (HR) Manager

Consultant

As a Consultant, you will be responsible for providing advice and guidance to clients on a variety of business issues. This course will help you understand the different types of consulting, and how to develop and deliver consulting services that meet the needs of your clients. You will also learn how to use data and analytics to support your consulting work.

See salaries and explore the career path for Consultant

Policy Analyst

As a Policy Analyst, you will be responsible for analyzing and evaluating public policies. This course will help you understand the different techniques used for policy analysis, and how to make recommendations that will lead to improved policy outcomes. You will also learn how to use data and analytics to support your policy analysis work.

See salaries and explore the career path for Policy Analyst

Program Manager

As a Program Manager, you will be responsible for planning, executing, and evaluating programs. This course will help you understand the different aspects of program management, including project management, budgeting, and stakeholder management. You will also learn how to use data and analytics to track the performance of your programs.

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Social Worker

As a Social Worker, you will be responsible for providing support and assistance to individuals and families who are facing challenges. This course will help you understand the different social work theories and techniques, and how to apply them to your work with clients. You will also learn how to use data and analytics to track the progress of your clients.

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Teacher

As a Teacher, you will be responsible for educating and inspiring students. This course will help you understand the different teaching methods and techniques, and how to create a positive and productive learning environment. You will also learn how to use data and analytics to track the progress of your students.

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Healthcare Administrator

As a Healthcare Administrator, you will be responsible for managing the operations of a healthcare organization. This course will help you understand the different aspects of healthcare administration, including finance, human resources, and patient care. You will also learn how to use data and analytics to track the performance of your organization.

See salaries and explore the career path for Healthcare Administrator