The new offering provides students with an introduction to common terminology, theories and research in the field of psychology. Students will benefit from practical insights into human behavior, gain knowledge for improving relationships, solving problems and enhancing the ability to work with and manage others.
“Becoming fully versed in psychology requires a significant educational investment. However, there are many careers out there can benefit from a basic understanding of psychology – those working in education, human resources, social services and criminal justice, just to name a few,” explained Dr. Lisa Bryde, Director of Ashworth High School and Career School Diploma Program Development.
“We realized that many of our students are looking to move up in their existing careers. Some have found themselves assuming certain tasks with little to no formal training and want to become more proficient,”
Ashworth’s Introduction to Psychology has been developed specifically for those with a limited background in psychology basics. Throughout the course, students will be exposed to how the brain works and cognitive development, as well as lessons covering stress, mood disorders, drug abuse and cultural influences.
Comprised of 10 comprehensive lessons, each beginning with a subject matter preview and course objectives, and a vocabulary builder of new words and terms, lessons include:
• What is Psychology?
• How Psychologists Do Research
• Genes, Evolution, and Environment
• The Brain: Source of Mind and Self
• Body Rhythms and Mental States
• Sensation and Perception
• Time Management Guide
• Learning and Conditioning
• Behavior in Social and Cultural Context
• Thinking and Intelligence
• Memory
• Emotion
• Motivation
• Theories of Personality
• Development Over the Life Span
• Health, Stress, and Coping
• Psychological Disorders
• Approaches to Treatment and Therapy
Lisa Prince is the course instructor. In addition to her work with Ashworth, Prince is a consultant on curriculum design and advises both K-12 schools and higher education organizations about their educational technology needs. She also teaches associate and bachelor degree courses in psychology as an adjunct instructor.
Prince earned both a Bachelor of Science in Psychology degree and a Masters of Education in School Psychology degree from Georgia State University in Atlanta, Georgia.
Students start the program at any time, study, complete practice exercises and online exams on their own schedule. “Like all of our Career School courses, Introduction to Psychology is self paced,” commented Jon Bouffler, Ashworth Executive Vice President. “Many of our students are working full-time jobs and have families. We wanted this to be as flexible as possible so that they can work it into their work and family schedules. And with rising gas prices it helps that they can complete the course at home and not have to travel to a classroom.”
