Summer 2019 - PSYC 391 D200
Selected Topics in Psychology (3)
Class Number: 5590
Delivery Method: In Person
Overview
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Course Times + Location:
May 6 – Jun 17, 2019: Tue, Thu, 2:30–5:20 p.m.
Burnaby
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Instructor:
Olga Vasileva
ovasilev@sfu.ca
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Prerequisites:
PSYC 201. Other prerequisites vary by topic offering.
Description
CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:
Course can be repeated for credit. Students may not take this course for further credit if similar topics are covered. See Psychology department website for course description.
COURSE DETAILS:
his course considers modern evolutionary theory as an explanation for the emergence of human cognitive and linguistic capacities. We will discuss how humans became so smart and talkative, how evolution could shape our mind and language, and what does modern science have to say about all this. Questions we will reflect on (among others): How smart human babies are? Did Neanderthals talk? Do animals have mind? How to turn a wolf into a dog? Does a big brain equal a great mind? Did "talking" apes really talk? Why primates do not develop schizophrenia? Do genes make you who you are?
We will also discuss common misconceptions regarding evolution and human cognition widespread among popular media and the public.
COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:
In this course students will gain knowledge of the main approaches and theories explaining development of the human mind during the course of evolution. They will become familiarized with the main concepts, terminology and hypotheses considering relations between evolution and human cognition. Importantly, students will be presented with varied scientific traditions, including European and Russian schools of thought. Students will develop their critical thinking and research skills, as well as acquire techniques for a compelling presentation of their knowledge by completing the course assignments.
Grading
- Mid-Term Exam: 30%
- Participation: 5%
- Writing Assignment 1: 15%
- Writing Assignment 2: 15%
- Final Exam: 35%
NOTES:
Topics:
Human evolution; genetics; development, brain & behavior; human language and animal communication; abnormal psychology & evolution;
This course partly overlaps with Psych 385 - Evolutionary Psychology - in some aspects. However, two courses focus on different topics. Students can take both courses for credit.
Office Hours: Tuesday 1-2 pm RCB 4303
Intersession final exam: June 20, 2019 2:30 - 5:20pm Room: AQ 3154
Materials
REQUIRED READING:
No textbook. Readings accessible via SFU library.
Registrar Notes:
SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating. Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.
Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community. Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html
ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS