PSYC216

[Wesleyan Home Page] [Wesmaps Home Page] [Availability Statistics Search] [Course Description Search] [Dept. Search]

PSYC216

Research Methods: The Human Observer PSYC216 SP

Next Offered in 9798 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 individual 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. Demonstations, 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: Fieldwork Seminar

REGISTRATION INFORMATION

Level: UG Credit: 1.00

Prerequisites: PSYC105 or SOC 151

Last Updated on MAR-10-1997

Contact wesmaps@wesleyan.edu to submit comments or suggestions.