Psychology
For Educators
Teachers can use the complete Plus course curriculum for flexible instruction.
Course Summary
Learn about the scientific study of mental processes and behavior. Explore the underlying biological functions and behaviors that govern how we sense, feel, learn, remember, think, and process language. Students learn how the mind develops as it ages, and the effects of nature versus nurture. Examine psychological disorders, therapy, and social psychology. In this course, gain a greater appreciation and understanding of how your own mind works.
Curriculum
This is a 1-semester course.
UC Scout courses (except language courses) are conducted entirely in English, including all lessons, assignments, and exams. Students are expected to complete all coursework — including proctored midterm and final exams — in English. Translation tools and browser extensions (such as Google Translate) are not permitted during proctored exams. Students who rely on translation tools to complete coursework should be aware that these tools will not be available during proctored assessments.
Unit 1: Scientific Inquiry and Research Methods
- The Nature of Psychological Science
- Research Methods and Measurements for Studying Behavior
- Ethical Issues in Research with Human and Non-Human Animals
- Conceptualizing Data Analysis
Unit 2: Biology
- Biological Basis of Behavior
- Interactions Between Biological Factors and Experiences
- The Capabilities and Limitations of Sensory Processes
- The Different States and Levels of Consciousness
- Categories of Psychoactive Drugs and Their Effects
Unit 3: Cognition
- The Process of Memory
- The Interaction Between the Person and the Environment
- Thinking, Perspective, Assessment, and Issues in Intelligence
Unit 4: Development and Learning
- Processes, Methods, and Issues in Lifespan Development
- Classical Conditioning, Operant Conditioning, and Observational Learning
Unit 5: Social and Personality
- Social Cognition and Social Influence
- Empirical Approaches to Studying and Understanding Personality
- Psychological Constructs of Culture, Gender, and Sexual Orientation
- Influences of Motivation and Motivated Behavior in Humans
- Perspective on Emotion and Emotional Expression
Unit 6: Mental and Physical Health
- Perspectives on Abnormal Behavior and Their Diagnosis
- Treatment Type and Legal, Ethical, and Professional Issues in Treatment
- Stress, Coping, and the Promotion of Mental and Physical Wellness