Psychology 330 Experimental Psychology
Spring 2008 / Section 001490

Required Texts: 

Galvan, J. L.  Writing Literature Reviews (3^rd ed.), Pyrczak Publishing.

Kantowitz, B. H., Roediger, H. L., & Elmes, D. G.  Experimental Psychology (8^th ed.), Wadsworth.

Rosnow & Rosnow (7th ed.). Writing Papers in Psychology. (Should have this from Psy 231/232).

There will also be several readings added to the schedule throughout the semester. These readings will be made available at the library reserve desk.

 

Course Description:  Course emphasizing report writing (APA editorial style), and application of research methodology and statistics.  Prerequisite:  PSY 232  

Student Learning Outcomes:

As a result of taking this course, you will be able to:

1. Read and review psychological research more critically.
2. Write a coherent literature review.
3. Plan an experiment to investigate a specific question using scientific methods.
4. Present scientific information effectively in both written and verbal formats.
5. Incorporate technology into research presentations.

Dragon Core Writing Intensive Designation:
Psy 330 Experimental Psychology carries a writing intensive course designation (“W”), and addresses all six written communication competencies of the Dragon Core Curriculum. The Dragon Core writing competencies that are extended are as follows:

 

1. Psy 330 employs a “coherent writing process” that requires students to submit early drafts of sections of the final paper for editing and revisions.
2. Psy 330 requires you to meet and consult with your professor to “produce quality written products.”
3. Psy 330 requires that you read, analyze, synthesize and integrate appropriate research and diverse readings for your research critiques and for your research proposal.
4. Psy 330 requires you locate, use and cite appropriate primary and secondary research articles using APA style formatting for your research proposal.
5. Psy 330 requires that you make logical, effective and engaging, writing critiques and papers for a scientific audience.
6. Psy 330 requires the use of correct grammar, mechanics, and spelling in all written papers.

Special Accommodations:

Students with disabilities who believe they may need an accommodation in this class are encouraged to contact Greg Toutges, Coordinator of Disability Services at 477-5859 (Voice) or 1-800-627-3529 (MRS/TTY), CMU 114 as soon as possible to ensure that accommodations are implemented in a timely fashion.

Assignments and Grading:

There are no formal exams in this class.  However, we will have several small quizzes.  We will also have several in-class and out-of-class assignments.  Assignment requirements and point totals will be announced in class.

These smaller assignments will culminate in and prepare you for completing your final project.  The major assignment for this class is the development of an APA-style research proposal.  You will be required to begin working on this paper almost immediately, as sections of it will be due throughout the semester.  Here is a list of assignments for this semester:

• 3 small quizzes: 105 points (35 points each)
• Weekly assignments
• Article Review Presentation: 25 points
• Research Proposal Presentation: 40 points
• Final Research Proposal: 100 points total (first drafts collectively worth 75 points; final draft worth 25 points)

Class participation: (50 pts) Class participation in the form of attendance, discussion, and presentation is an absolutely essential component of this class. Psychologists must learn and practice communication skills necessary to present, persuade, and discuss with colleagues, both in casual and professional interactions.  Be prepared to discuss assigned readings and the questions in the homework assignments. Also be prepared to summarize, evaluate, and generate discussion regarding your research project and those of your class mates.

Grades will be assigned using the following scale:

A = 90-100% of total points

B = 80-89%

C = 70-79%

D = 60-69%

F = less than 60%

Student Responsibilities:

As a student in this class, you have certain responsibilities.  You are responsible for:

1. Knowing all information in the syllabus, including dates and procedures for assignments and grading. 
2. Checking the course website for class announcements or changes.
3. Completing the reading assignments before each class and taking an active role in learning the material. 
4. Seeking assistance from the instructor in a timely fashion. 
5. Monitoring your performance in this class, including keeping track of your points.
6. Informing the professor ahead of time in the case of special needs. 
7. Arriving to and leaving class on time so as not to disturb the professor or other students.  Also, all electronic devices, such as cell phones, must be turned off upon entering the classroom. 

Academic Honesty:  The MSUM Student Handbook (http://www.mnstate.edu/sthandbook) discusses student conduct code issues including academic integrity such as cheating or plagiarism. If you have any questions regarding this conduct code or your rights, please review the handbook.

Copying papers from classmates or other sources (including the web) is not only cheating, but is plagiarism and the equivalent of scholarly or “literary” stealing.  You must cite your sources!  In the event that you are caught plagiarizing or copying, you will fail this course.