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Academic Year 2000/2001

Research Methods: The Human Observer
PSYC 216 SP

Can the biases, emotions, prejudices and blindspots of human beings be reduced or eliminated when we are observing or talking with other people, and if so, how? Is objectivity possible outside the laboratory? Participant observation has both limitations and benefits. The aim of this course is to introduce the student to doing research in real life situations. We will apply methods of gaining intimate familiarity with people in their own habitats. Discovering the unique qualities of the ind ividual and of the social systems within which the individual resides will be the focus of our work. Students will make observations and conduct interviews with people who are facing some of life's key situations: a new parent, an unemployed person, an elderly or sick person, an emergency room nurse, a merchant, a laborer. Interviews and observation will be presented by the students in class. Demonstrations, lectures, and supervision will be given by the instructor.

MAJOR READINGS

Readings will cover: bias in research, the dynamics of the interview, human development across the life span, family and social systems and individual psychology.

EXAMINATIONS AND ASSIGNMENTS

Three short papers and one term project.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS and/or COMMENTS

Also open to premedical students. Developmental area for majors. Unless preregistered students attend the first class meeting or communicate directly with the instructor prior to the first class, they will be dropped from the class list. NOTE: Students must still submit a completed Drop/Add form to the Registrar's Office.

COURSE FORMAT: Lecture

REGISTRATION INFORMATION

Level: UGRD    Credit: 1    Gen Ed Area Dept: NONE    Grading Mode: Student Option   

Prerequisites: PSYC105 OR SOC151 Links to Web Resources For This Course.

Last Updated on MAR-26-2001

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