Reed, S. K. (2007).  Cognition:  Theory and Applications, 7th Edition. Wadsworth/Thomson Learning, Belmont, CA.

The text can be purchased at the bookstore.  Alternatively, the book can be bought on-line as from the publisher at:  ichapters.com.

Course Description:

Psychology 4040 provides a survey of the fundamental concepts and current issues in human cognition.  The topic is approached from a human information processing perspective.  Emphasis is placed on a theoretical treatment of the cognitive processes of normal humans.  The discussion includes the experimental methodologies with which cognitive processes are studied.

Course Requirements:

Students will be evaluated on the basis of three tests (see attached course schedule for test dates), each worth 1/4 of the course grade, and on the basis of a research paper which accounts for the remaining 1/4 of the course grade.  Each test will cover lecture and textbook material presented since the previous test.  The third test (during examinations week) will not be cumulative.  Details concerning the research paper are on-line, and will be covered in class.

Writing skills are essential to your college and career success; to that end, Writing Center attendance is encouraged.  Lectures will supplement textbook material, not merely cover it again.  Thus, regular class attendance is expected.

Web Page:

Additional support materials for this course are available on the Internet at the following URL: http://www.mtsu.edu/~sschmidt/Cognitive.  This material includes lecture notes and graphics, as well as demonstrations.  This material can be accessed from one of the many on-campus computer labs, or from a home computer.

Makeup and Grading Policy:

If a student cannot take a test or turn in a paper at the appropriate time, make-ups and extensions will be given only if the student makes arrangements with the instructor prior to the test/due date.  Makeup exams are essay format.  Late papers are subject to a 5% penalty per day.  

Reasonable Accommodation for Students with Disabilities:

If you have a disability that requires assistance or accommodation, or you have questions related to any accommodations for testing, note takers, readers, etc., please speak with me as soon as possible.  Students may also contact the Office of Disabled Students Services (898-2783) with questions about such services.