"Topics" courses vary by term and section. In some terms there will be several class sections with the same course number (e.g., PSY 1050) but with different focus (e.g., one might be Sleep, one might be Sports Psych, etc.). Topics courses may be offered infrequently. Below is a list of Topics offered this term.
FALL 2024
PSY 1050 Topics in Psychology
PSY 1050 - 1220 SECOND LANGUAGE ACQUISITION
Class Number: 28927
Instructor: Wendy Guo
In this seminar-based course, you will learn about the development of Second Language Acquisition (SLA) as a research discipline by reviewing current cognitive, linguistic, psychological, educational, sociocultural, and interactional perspectives. We will examine topics including the description of patterns of second language development; cognitive, functional, and psycholinguistic theories of SLA; usage-based approaches to language acquisition; the applied linguistics of L2 learning and instruction; critical periods and age effects; sociocultural and sociolinguistic approaches, etc. Main grading components include in-class and online participation, presentations, facilitation of discussions, and a final term paper on an SLA topic of your choosing.
PSY 1050 - 1300 SPORTS PSYCHOLOGY
Class Number: 31186
Instructor: Jay Deiters
PSY 1050 - 1310 PSYCHOLOGY OF SLEEP
Class Number: 31213
Instructor: Mark Thomas
This in-person course provides an overview of sleep and circadian rhythms across four modules: foundational information about the physiology and measurement of sleep and circadian rhythms, sleep disorders and treatment, sleep and mental, physical, and cognitive health, and a variety of special topics on sleep. This course will provide information about basic terms and concepts in this field, as well as historical and contemporaneous perspectives for understanding the ¿what, how, and why¿ behind sleep and circadian rhythms in humans.
PSY 1051 Topics in Social Psychology
PSY 1051 - 1092 SOCIAL PSYCH OF REALITY TV
Class Number: 28926
Instructor: Jennifer Hirsch
Let's put the "real" in reality TV -- in this course, we will explore how social strategy reality TV shows reflect a microcosm of our social worlds. From first impressions, to building relationships, to deceit, power, and alliances, we will analyze, discuss, and even experience these social strategy games through the lens of social psychological research and theories.
PSY 1053 Topics in Developmental Psychology
PSY 1053 - 1100 SOCIAL MEDIA AND BODY IMAGE
Class Number: 32643
Instructor: Sophia Choukas-Bradley
In this course, we'll address the role of social media use in adolescent girls' body image. Focusing on recent research findings and current trends, we will integrate theoretical perspectives from developmental, social, and clinical psychology, as well as theories related to gender, sexuality, and communication. Class meetings will include a mix of interactive lectures and discussions. Class projects will allow students to apply what they have learned to new and emerging social media trends.
PSY 1059 Topics in Advanced Laboratory Methods
PSY 1059 - 1110 MIXED METHODS
Class Number: 31196
Instructor: Andrea Mora
In this course, students will be introduced to mixed methods research in psychology. Mixed methods means that you go beyond the usual quantitative (numerical) data and learn how to collect and incorporate qualitative data¿participants¿ stories and personal experiences. The class will focus on the mental health of university students and barriers to seeking psychological support, such as financial barriers, stigma, and access to culturally competent therapists. Students will use nationally available survey data (quantitative) and conduct individual interviews (qualitative) with university students to conduct their own mixed methods study.