The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology

Division of Social Science

SOSC1960 Discovering Mind and Behavior
Course Syllabus
Summer Semester 2014

Lecturer
Dr. Beatrice LAI
Office: Room 3002
Email: beatricelai@ust.hk
Phone: 2358 7817
Consultation: By appointment

Teaching Assistants
Vivien PONG
Cheryl TSO
Kwan To WONG
Email: sosc1960ta@ust.hk
Consultation: By appointment

Lecture Time: Mon, Wed 9:00am 11:50am

Venue: LTA
Course Description
The aim of this course is to introduce the research methods and the fundamental concepts
and theories in various areas in psychology. This course is suitable for students who want
to acquire a basic understanding of psychology, and prerequisite for students who want to
take further courses in psychology.
Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs)
After taking this course, you should be able to:
1. explain how psychological research is conducted and how psychologists observe
human behavior scientifically.
2. demonstrate a fundamental knowledge of key psychology concepts and theories
3. analyze daily experiences with reference to psychological concepts and theories
4. develop appreciation of the scientific basis of psychology
Non-assessed Learning Activities
1. Readings ILOs #1, #2, #3, #4
After lectures of each topic, students are strongly advised to read the required readings to
maximize your learning experience. The textbook complements the lectures by providing
a broader and deeper coverage. The required readings will be listed at the end of each
lecture note. You may also read other recommended resources such as: American
Psychological Association website (http://www.apa.org); Association for Psychological
Science website (http://www.psychologicalscience.org); Psychology Today magazine
(http://psychologytoday.com); and Scientific American Mind magazine
(http://www.sciam.com).

2. Self-assessing Practice Quizzes ILOs #1, #2, #3

Before each quiz, I will post a self-assessing practice quiz comprising several multiple
choice questions. This is intended to help you assess your knowledge of the topic, and to
familiarize yourself with the format and styles of the actual quizzes.
Assessed Learning Activities
Quiz 1
Quiz 2
Assignments
Class Participation

30%
30%
30%
10%

1. Quizzes (30% each, total 60%)

ILOs #1, #2, #3
There are two quizzes to test your understanding of course materials. Quizzes are
multiple-choice questions only and noncumulative. Each quiz contributes to 30%
of your course grade, covering all materials in lectures and required readings.
Arrive on time for the quizzes as no additional time will be given for students
arriving late.
No make-up quiz will be given to students who are absent unless there are
validated medical reasons. You must present a written note from your doctor
attesting to the fact that you were too ill to attend the examination. This note must
be presented to me in person to arrange for a make-up exam. All make-up quizzes
will be in the form of essay questions.
2. Assignments (30%)
ILOs#1, #3
Task: Two assignment questions will be distributed. You need to give your
answers to both questions.
Format: maximum 500 words for each assignment question.
Deadline: Assignment 1 is due by 12 noon, July 18, 2014 and Assignment 2 is
due by 12 noon, July 23, 2014. You must submit the assignments in Word format
to the LMES by the due dates. Late submission will NOT be accepted except for
validated medical reasons. In such case, you must present in person a written note
from your doctor justifying that you were too ill to complete the assignment on
time.
Guidelines will be distributed in due course.
3. Class participation (10%)
ILOs #1, #2, #3, #4
The prerequisite for class participation is attendance. You are expected to attend
lectures ON TIME as late-comers may disrupt the class.
I believe interaction between the lecturer and the students is one of the key
ingredients to an optimal learning experience. To achieve this, you are
encouraged to participate actively in class activities and discussions.

Required Textbook
Feldman, R. S. (2013). Understanding Psychology (11th Ed). New York: McGraw-Hill.
ISBN 9780078035210.
Academic Integrity
I expect all of you to observe the Universitys policies regarding academic integrity
(http://publish.ust.hk/acadreg/generalreg/index.html). Academic dishonesty such as
plagiarism and cheating usually results in a reduced or failing grade in the course. Please
consult me if you are not clear about the guidelines.
Course Communication Platform
All lecture materials and announcements will be posted onto the LMES. Be sure
to check the LMES from time to time for any updated news. Please consult the
teaching assistant if you are not familiar with the system.
I believe interaction between the lecturer and the students is one of the key
ingredients to an optimal learning experience. I will use the LMES as a
communicating platform where you can raise questions that you would like me to
address. You can also share any thoughts relevant to the course. These can be
things you come across in your everyday life which are related to what you have
learned in class.
Your Feedback
Your opinions about the course are very valuable in helping me to better improve the
course. A course evaluation will be held at the end of the course. You are also very much
welcomed to talk to me or write your opinions on a piece of paper and drop it in the
collection box in Room 3001, (Lift 4) (without any identifying information if you prefer
anonymity).
Teaching Schedule
Lecture Date
1.
June 30
2.
July 2
3.
July 7
4.
July 9
5.
July 14
6.
July 16
7.
July 21
8.
July 23
9.
July 28
10. July 30
11. Aug 4
12. Aug 6
13. Aug 11

Topic
Introduction
Research Methods
Memory
Learning
Sensation and Perception
States of Consciousness
Quiz 1
Intelligence
Development
Personality
Health Psychology
Social Psychology
Quiz 2

Readings
Ch. 1
Ch. 2
Ch. 7
Ch. 6
Ch. 4
Ch. 5
Ch. 9
Ch. 12
Ch. 13
Ch. 14
Ch. 17