The course aims to provide students with a solid understanding of the fundamental principles of Psychology, equipping them with the conceptual tools needed to successfully approach more advanced courses in their academic path. In general, students will be introduced to the scientific method as a systematic approach common to all scientific disciplines, as well as to the basic mechanisms that underlie human behavior. By the end of the course, students are expected to have acquired knowledge of the main mechanisms underlying human behavior and to be able to critically understand and evaluate the various theories and research methods specific to psychology.
Course Prerequisites
None
Teaching Methods
The main teaching method will consist of lectures, which will also include moments of open discussion on the most relevant theoretical and methodological aspects.
Assessment Methods
Learning will be tested through a written examination consisting of multiple-choice questions. The duration of the test is about 1 hour and the evaluation is done in thirtieths.
Texts
Gerrig, R. J., Zimbardo, P. G., Anolli, L., & Baldi, P. L. (2023). Psicologia generale. Pearson. Terza Edizione. ISBN: 8891931209
Ferrari, C (2022). Che cosa sono le neuroscienze sociali. Carocci editore. ISBN: 9788829014576
Contents
The introductory part of the course (12 hours) will take place during the first semester, while the remaining 60 hours will be held in the second semester. The initial section will cover topics related to the history of psychology, the cultural and scientific framework of modern psychology, and the relationship between psychology and related disciplines, such as philosophy, cognitive sciences, medicine (with particular reference to psychiatry and neurology), artificial intelligence, biology, and educational sciences.
In the central part of the course, students will be introduced to the methodological aspects involved in the study of general psychology. The course also aims to deepen students’ understanding of the fundamental psychological and cognitive processes underlying human behavior, including: attention and consciousness; visual perception; memory; learning; theories and assessment of intelligence; verbal and nonverbal communication; emotions; motivation; personality.
