Introduction to Psychology (saylor.org)

This course will introduce you to the fundamental principles of psychology and to the major subjects of psychological inquiry. It has been designed to not only provide you with the tools necessary for the study of psychology but to present you with a sampling of the major areas of psychology research. The course begins with a short overview of how psychology developed as an academic discipline and an introduction to a number of the principle methodologies most commonly deployed in its study. The subsequent units are arranged around broad areas of research, including emotion, development, memory, and psychopathology. We will focus on well-substantiated research and current trends within each of these categories.
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:
Identify the steps of the scientific method and explain how this method applies to psychological research methodology and statistical analyses.
Demonstrate an understanding of the general history of the field.
Explain the nature versus nurture argument and the current status of thinking regarding gene-environment interaction.
Identify the basic components and mechanisms of the major biological systems often studied in psychology.
Demonstrate an understanding of the basic findings within a variety of areas of psychology, including sensation and perception, memory and learning, development, social psychology, and psychopathology.