Orientation for PSY 111
Presenters: Swati and Chris
Purpose: To introduce the course and PASS program
PASS: Peer Assisted Study Sessions
Facilitated by students who recently completed the unit.
Supportive environment for relaxation, practice, and learning.
Engaging activities to enhance understanding of content.
Statistics indicate higher success for attendees of multiple sessions.
Students attending five or more sessions are twice as likely to achieve a high distinction (grade above 80%).
Free sessions available weekly; schedule provided.
PSY 1011 Overview: Foundation in psychology.
No prior BC Psychology experience needed; content begins at an introductory level.
Topics covered:
History and Science of Psychology
Social Psychology (Swati)
Biological Psychology
Developmental Psychology
Cultural Psychology
Indigenous Psychology
Health Stress and Coping
Organizational Psychology
Research Methods
Psychological Disorders
Unit Structure:
Weekly seminars (2 hours) and tutorials.
Seminars held face-to-face or online; prior sessions can be streamed later.
Moodle is the central hub for resources and communications.
Emphasis on academic writing and presentation skills.
First Assignment: Group Debate (30% of grade)
Random allocation of groups and topics.
PowerPoint presentations due April 17.
Group participation and meeting records required.
Second Assignment: Argumentative Essay (40% of grade)
Based on topics from group debate or alternatives.
2,500 word essay due by May 29.
Submit via Turnitin for originality checking.
Total of 36 hours per week recommended for this unit, including:
One hour seminar and one hour tutorial.
Six hours of self-directed study or more for higher grades.
Non-compulsory attendance, but crucial for group assignments.
Textbook Requirement:
"Burton, Weston, Kowalski" is mandatory for course content and exams.
Optional books for additional support.
Access through VitalSource after payment; processing can take up to 48 hours.
Exam Information:
Date announcements not yet available but scheduled around June.
Exam similar in format to weekly practice quizzes, including multiple choice and short answer questions.
Disability support services available for students needing accommodations.
Engage with tutors for questions and guidance.
Importance of proper communication etiquette emphasized in correspondence.
Special considerations for group work are documented.
Encouragement to utilize resources, attend sessions, and engage in the course community.
Tutors passionate and prepared to support students in their learning journey.