PYSC 222-01, Educational Psychology, Fall 2005

Abstract

A study of thoughts and actions as they relate to how we teach and learn, particularly in school settings. Emphasis will be placed on the use of theory to guide practical instruction and the use of assessment to determine instructional effectiveness. Cognitive processes, individual differences, strategies for instruction, motivation, critical thinking, and self-regulation of learning will be stressed. Goals Learning fundamental principles, generalizations or theories. Developing specific skills, competencies, and points of view needed by professionals in education. Developing skill in expressing self orally or in writing. Objectives: Course objectives will require students to understand and apply the major concepts and theories of educational psychology in the following areas: • Human development (cognitive, social-emotional) and the use of developmentally appropriate classroom practices. • Learning theory and how it is manifests in various curricula. • Factors affecting motivation and ways to positively motivate students to learn. • Learner characteristics, including individual differences, diversity and special needs students. • Critical thinking skills important to teachers and learners. • Student assessment, including standardized testing, curriculum-based measurement, and informal evaluation of student progress. • Creating a positive learning environment, including strategies for classroom management. • Evaluating empirical evidence, relating it to specific learning theories, and applying it to classroom practices.