02207 - General Psychology

Learning outcomes

At the end of the course students must know:

- the historical development of scientific psychology;

- the main methodological aspects of psychological research: experimental method, observation, test, interview;

- the main methods of studying cognitive processes: attention, perception, learning, memory, thought, emotions.

Course contents

The course will concern the fundamental knowledge of scientific psychology from its origins to the most recent studies on cognitive processes. The general objective of the course is to provide students the basic knowledge of the human mind functioning also in relation to neuroscience.

Topics covered will include:

Historical introduction to scientific psychology with particular reference to the current Psychological perspectives: Evolutionary Perspective, Fenomenology, Behaviorism, Cognitive, Neuroscience and the brain-mind problem

Methods in psychological research: experimental and observational method

Cognitive processes: attention, perception, learning, memory, language, thought.

Specific issues: the psychophysiology of emotions.

Readings/Bibliography

Occhionero M. (a cura di). Introduzione alla psicologia generale. Roma: Carocci 2018.

 

Readings

Mecacci L. Storia della psicologia. Dal Novecento ad oggi. Bari: Laterza, 2019

Dennett D. Kinds of minds: towards an understanding of consciousness, NY: Basic Books, 1996.

Teaching methods

Frontal lectures

Assessment methods

The examination aims to verify the achievement of the following objectives: Good knowledge of the topics which are in the program in order to verify the student's ability to use the information acquired in the various areas of intervention.

The assessment of learning takes place through the final exam that ascertains the acquisition of the expected knowledge by conducting a written test lasting 1 hour.

The test consists of 3 open-ended questions.

The exam will provide a degree between 18 and 30. 

During the test the use of supporting material such as textbooks, notes, computer media is not allowed.

Teaching tools

Slides (power point)

Office hours

See the website of Miranda Occhionero