GPC150 PSYCHOLOGY OF LEARNING
| Course Code: | 3780150 |
| METU Credit (Theoretical-Laboratory hours/week): | 3 (3.00 - 0.00) |
| ECTS Credit: | 5.0 |
| Department: | Guidance and Psychological Counseling |
| Language of Instruction: | English |
| Level of Study: | Undergraduate |
| Course Coordinator: | Assoc.Prof.Dr. SELDA KOYDEMİR |
| Offered Semester: | Spring Semesters. |
Course Objectives
This course is concerned with the basic principles of learning and conditioning particularly from the behaviourist perspective. Therefore, it will cover the topic of what learning is and how it is measured objectively, the principles of habituation, desensitization, classical conditioning (Pavlovian Conditioning), operant conditioning (Skinnerian Conditioning) and avoidance. In due course issues that pertain to cognition will be discussed as there is a strong link between cognitive processes and learning.
Further to the above, as per the needs of the target student group, the relevance of theories of learning to educational settings within the theoretical frames of behaviourism and cognitivism will be highlighted.
On successful completion of this subject, it is expected that the student will develop an understanding of:
- Fundamental theories of learning
- The basic principles underlying experimental study of human behaviour
- How basic learning mechanisms are linked to higher order functions
- The role of theories of learning in applied settings, e.g., education.
- Basics of behavioural modification
Course Content
A survey of different theories and approaches to psychology of learning. Areas of major emphasis are concepts and principles of classical and instrumental conditioning. A selective treatment of behavior modification is included in the course material.
Course Learning Outcomes
By the end of this course, each of the students will be able to:
Explain fundamental concepts associated with theories of learning.
Identify important perspectives associated with learning.
Explore empirical research related to human learning and behavior.
Understand the role and applications of learning in behavioral and cognitive interventions.
Critically evaluate various theories of learning and related concepts.
Understand the basics of behaviour modification
Grasp the link between theories of learning and their applications.
Program Outcomes Matrix
| Level of Contribution | |||||
| # | Program Outcomes | 0 | 1 | 2 | 3 |
| 1 | Have updated knowledge regarding basic theories and approaches of psychological counseling and guidance | ✔ | |||
| 2 | Know the necessary theories, and own the knowledge and skills to conduct individual, group and career counseling | ✔ | |||
| 3 | Effectively serve for the students' educational, social/individual and vocational guidance needs as a school counselor in the educational system | ✔ | |||
| 4 | Are sensitive about the cultural differences in counseling practices | ✔ | |||
| 5 | Follow national and international publications and developments in the field of psychological counseling and guidance | ✔ | |||
| 6 | Follow and use the technological innovations which the field of psychological counseling and guidance requires | ✔ | |||
| 7 | Know the main curriculum development approaches and procedures, and develop proposals about practices in different fields | ✔ | |||
| 8 | Choose and practice the measurement and evaluation tools in the field by evaluating their validity and reliability; and report the results by truly interpreting with an ethical sense and responsibility | ✔ | |||
| 9 | Have the knowledge and implication skills about main research methods | ✔ | |||
| 10 | Effectively use the statistical programs in the field, accurately use, interpret and report the statistical procedures | ✔ | |||
| 11 | Practice activities such as giving seminars and trainings related to their field | ✔ | |||
| 12 | Adhere to and practice the ethical values and principles in their social lives and professional activities (research, practice) | ✔ | |||
| 13 | Have effective communication skills in English and Turkish (listening, speaking, writing and reading) and effectively communicate with experts in the field, institutions, organizations and colleagues by using these skills | ✔ | |||
| 14 | Produce practical solutions to the social problems by considering conditions and cultural differences | ✔ | |||
| 15 | Adopt an advocate role in professional topics | ✔ | |||
0: No Contribution 1: Little Contribution 2: Partial Contribution 3: Full Contribution