Adult illiteracy in the U.S. presents an ever-growing challenge. To understand this problem, we will learn various theories of reading. However, since many models of reading are based on data gathered from children, we will also examine how the cognitive abilities of adults are different from those of children. A large component of this class concerns learning the lab techniques associated with assessing reading abilities. In addition, since this is a community-based learning course, each student will become a tutor for an adult enrolled in an area literacy program.

Performance study - individual instruction.

In the role of a participant-observer, each;student studies the social and personality;development of the children in one classroom at;the Gorse Children's Center. Students learn how;to articulate developmental changes and;individual differences by analyzing detailed;observations. Topics include peer relationships,;concepts of friendship, emotional development,;identity formation, social cognition, and the;social and cultural context of development.

Performance study - individual instruction.

Performance study - individual instruction.

Students will work in teams to code videotaped;observations of romantic partners discussing;relationship conflicts. Students will learn to;code emotion expressions and behavior at the;dyadic and individual levels. Course topics;include methodological issues such as coding;bias, construct validity, and intercoder;reliability, as well as empirical research on;individual differences in conflict behavior and;links between conflict behavior and relationship;outcomes.

Performance study - individual instruction.

Relatively recent technological and;methodological developments offer psychologists;an opportunity to study social and intergroup;behavior with greater sophistication than ever;before.

Performance study - individual instruction.

Why do repeated concussions increase risk of;developing depression? Why does that approaching;cold hold off until finals week is over then hit;like a freight train? When you stand to give a;presentation, why does your mouth go dry,;perspiration bead on your skin, and your heart;start racing? These questions can be answered by;the intricate relationship between the nervous;and immune systems.