Exploring Psychology's Core Concepts | 走进心理学 from edX

This course provides an introduction to the basic concepts that form the foundation of the field of psychology. Topics include history of psychology, biological bases of behavior, sensation and perception, consciousness, learning and memory, and life-span development.

Class lectures emphasize an empirical approach to a scientific understanding of human behavior across these domains. In addition to learning basic content information about psychology, students will learn how psychologists ask questions, evaluate evidence, and communicate with each other.

Psychology is the most widely covered topic in modern life. Whether it is food, clothing, housing and transportation in life, or how to behave at work, they are all inseparable from psychology and require the knowledge and help of psychology. There are three major mysteries in the world: the mystery of the origin of matter, the mystery of the origin of life, and the mystery of the origin of consciousness. Psychology is the science that explores the mystery of the origin of consciousness. The field of psychological research is rich and broad, and intersects with many disciplines. Every student may find an area of interest. This course introduces psychological knowledge from different aspects of cognition, learning, emotion, interpersonal relationships, health, and behavior to answer students' confusions in exploring themselves, understanding society, and thinking about life.

What you'll learn

basic concepts that form the foundation of the field of psychology and thehistory of psychology
biological bases of behavior, sensation and perception, consciousness, learning and memory, and life-span development
how psychologists ask questions, evaluate evidence, and communicate with each other
Branches of Psychology and Historical Evolution
Physiological basis of perception and behavior, psychology of learning and development
Basic research methods in psychology

What's inside

Learning objectives

Basic concepts that form the foundation of the field of psychology and thehistory of psychology

Biological bases of behavior, sensation and perception, consciousness, learning and memory, and life-span development

Basic concepts that form the foundation of the field of psychology and thehistory of psychology
Biological bases of behavior, sensation and perception, consciousness, learning and memory, and life-span development

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Develops an understanding of the history of psychology from different perspectives in order to critically evaluate modern day approaches to the field

Teaches the biological bases of behavior, sensation and perception, consciousness, learning and memory, and life-span development in order to develop a comprehensive understanding of the human mind and body

Uses an empirical approach to a scientific understanding of human behavior across a variety of domains in order to develop critical thinking skills and problem-solving abilities

Examines the branches of psychology and historical evolution in order to provide a comprehensive understanding of the field

Covers the physiological basis of perception and behavior, psychology of learning and development in order to develop a comprehensive understanding of human behavior and cognition

Introduces basic research methods in psychology in order to develop a foundation for conducting research and evaluating evidence

Reviews summary

Introduction to psychology

According to students, this course is a solid introduction to psychology's core foundational concepts. It explains the structure and function of the brain in different stages of life. It explores human psychology, including the forces that control desires and capabilities.

Course serves as a solid introduction to foundational topics in psychology.

"as it introduces the structure of our brain and the processes that occur in it at different stages of a person's life."

"Psychology is a very interesting science."

"The course also focuses on human psychology, and what controls the desires and capabilities of everyone."

Course teaches the importance of understanding yourself and others through psychological concepts.

"The Key Word that I learned from this course is UNDERSTANDING."

"Understanding of Self (Self-Awareness) and Understanding of Other through using or exploring the Knowledge or Practice of Psychological Concepts or Developmental Concepts."

"I believe this course will make you motivate to understand yourself and other."

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 Exploring Psychology's Core Concepts | 走进心理学 with these activities:

Review of biological sciences

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Review the basics of life sciences, including biology, anatomy, and physiology, to reinforce your understanding of course materials.

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Review your notes and textbooks from previous biology courses.
Take practice quizzes and exams to test your understanding.
Participate in online forums and discussions to engage with other students.
Attend review sessions or workshops offered by your university or online.

Understanding Research Methods in Psychology

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Research methods are essential for understanding how psychologists conduct studies and draw conclusions about human behavior. These tutorials can broaden your understanding beyond the classroom.

Browse courses on Research Methods

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Find online tutorials or videos on research methods in psychology.
Watch the tutorials and take notes on the key concepts.
Apply the concepts you've learned to a research study that you're interested in.

Study group

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Enhance your understanding by collaborating with peers and discussing course material.

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Form a study group with classmates.
Meet regularly to discuss the course material.
Quiz each other on key concepts.

Six other activities

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Mind Mapping

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Mindmapping helps organize and visualize thoughts and ideas. This activity will help you develop strong critical thinking skills, crucial for success in psychology

Browse courses on Thinking

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Choose a topic or concept from the course.
Write the topic in the center of a piece of paper.
Draw branches out from the center, labeling each with a related idea or thought.

Data Analysis Workshop

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Further develop your understanding of data analysis techniques used in psychology research.

Browse courses on Data Analysis

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Attend a data analysis workshop offered by your university or a professional organization.
Learn about different data analysis techniques and how to apply them to psychological data.
Practice using data analysis software.

Psychology Blog

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Create a blog where you can share your learning and insights on psychological topics.

Browse courses on Psychology

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Choose a topic that you're interested in.
Research the topic and gather information from credible sources.
Write a blog post that explains the topic in a clear and engaging way.
Share your blog post with others.

Course notes summary

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Summarize your notes and readings to improve retention and understanding.

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Review your notes and readings.
Identify the key points and concepts.
Create a summary that includes the key points and concepts.

Theories of Personality

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This book provides a comprehensive overview of the major theories of personality, which will help you understand the different approaches to understanding human behavior and development.

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Read the assigned chapters from the book.
Take notes on the key concepts and theories.
Discuss the theories with your classmates or a study group.

Tutor fellow students

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Enhance your understanding of the material while helping fellow classmates.

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Identify students who may benefit from your help
Offer your assistance and set up regular tutoring sessions.
Review course material and prepare lesson plans

Career center

Learners who complete Exploring Psychology's Core Concepts | 走进心理学 will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Psychologist

Psychologists study the human mind and behavior. They use their knowledge to help people with a variety of mental health issues, from anxiety and depression to addiction and eating disorders. As a Psychologist, you would learn how to conduct research, diagnose mental health conditions, and develop treatment plans. This course would provide you with a strong foundation in the basic concepts of psychology, which would be essential for your success in this role.

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Psychiatrist

Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of mental illness. They can prescribe medication and provide psychotherapy. As a Psychiatrist, you would need to have a strong understanding of the biological bases of behavior, as well as the psychological factors that contribute to mental illness. This course would provide you with a solid foundation in these areas.

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Social Worker

Social Workers help people cope with a variety of challenges, such as poverty, homelessness, and mental illness. They provide counseling, support, and resources to help people improve their lives. As a Social Worker, you would need to have a strong understanding of human behavior and development. This course would provide you with a foundation in these areas, as well as the skills you need to work with people from all walks of life.

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Counselor

Counselors provide support and guidance to people who are struggling with emotional or mental health issues. They may work in a variety of settings, such as schools, hospitals, and private practice. As a Counselor, you would need to have a strong understanding of human behavior and development. This course would provide you with a foundation in these areas, as well as the skills you need to work with people from all walks of life.

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Teacher

Teachers help students learn and grow. They may teach a variety of subjects, such as math, science, history, and English. As a Teacher, you would need to have a strong understanding of how people learn. This course would provide you with a foundation in the basic concepts of psychology, which would be essential for your success in this role.

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Human Resources Manager

Human Resources Managers oversee the recruitment, hiring, and training of employees. They also develop and implement policies and procedures to ensure that employees are treated fairly and in accordance with the law. As a Human Resources Manager, you would need to have a strong understanding of human behavior and motivation. This course would provide you with a foundation in these areas, as well as the skills you need to work with people from all walks of life.

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Market Researcher

Market Researchers study consumer behavior to help businesses develop and market their products and services. They use a variety of methods to collect and analyze data, such as surveys, focus groups, and interviews. As a Market Researcher, you would need to have a strong understanding of human behavior and motivation. This course would provide you with a foundation in these areas, as well as the skills you need to conduct research and analyze data.

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UX Designer

UX Designers design user interfaces for websites and other digital products. They focus on creating user-friendly and efficient experiences. As a UX Designer, you would need to have a strong understanding of human behavior and cognition. This course would provide you with a foundation in these areas, as well as the skills you need to design user interfaces that are both effective and enjoyable to use.

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Neuroscientist

Neuroscientists study the nervous system. They use a variety of techniques to investigate the structure and function of the brain, spinal cord, and nerves. As a Neuroscientist, you would need to have a strong understanding of the biological bases of behavior. This course would provide you with a foundation in this area, as well as the skills you need to conduct research and analyze data.

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Forensic Psychologist

Forensic Psychologists apply psychological principles to the criminal justice system. They work with law enforcement, attorneys, and judges to assess defendants, provide expert testimony, and develop treatment plans for offenders. As a Forensic Psychologist, you would need to have a strong understanding of human behavior and the criminal justice system. This course would provide you with a foundation in these areas, as well as the skills you need to work in this field.

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Speech-Language Pathologist

Speech-Language Pathologists help people with communication disorders. They assess and treat speech, language, and swallowing problems. As a Speech-Language Pathologist, you would need to have a strong understanding of human communication and development. This course would provide you with a foundation in these areas, as well as the skills you need to work with people with communication disorders.

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Occupational Therapist

Occupational Therapists help people with disabilities or injuries regain or improve their ability to perform everyday activities. They use a variety of techniques, such as exercises, activities, and adaptive equipment. As an Occupational Therapist, you would need to have a strong understanding of human movement and function. This course would provide you with a foundation in these areas, as well as the skills you need to work with people with disabilities or injuries.

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Physical Therapist

Physical Therapists help people with movement disorders restore their physical function. They use a variety of techniques, such as exercises, massage, and electrical stimulation. As a Physical Therapist, you would need to have a strong understanding of human movement and function. This course may provide you with a foundation in these areas, but you would likely need additional training to be successful in this role.

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Dietitian

Dietitians help people make healthy food choices. They assess nutritional needs, develop meal plans, and provide nutrition education. As a Dietitian, you would need to have a strong understanding of human nutrition and metabolism. This course may provide you with a foundation in these areas, but you would likely need additional training to be successful in this role.

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Personal Trainer

Personal Trainers help people improve their fitness and overall health. They design and lead exercise programs, provide nutrition advice, and support clients in reaching their fitness goals. As a Personal Trainer, you would need to have a strong understanding of human movement and exercise physiology. This course may provide you with a foundation in these areas, but you would likely need additional training to be successful in this role.

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