Wesleyan University

Social Psychology

Taught in English

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637,623 already enrolled

Course

Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals

Scott Plous

Instructor: Scott Plous

4.7

(4,731 reviews)

Beginner level
No prior experience required
37 hours to complete
3 weeks at 12 hours a week
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace

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Assessments

5 quizzes

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There are 7 modules in this course

This week's goals are to: (1) learn what social psychology is and why it's worth studying; (2) take a "snapshot" of your thinking at the start of the course; (3) see how perceptions of reality are psychologically constructed; and (4) witness the shocking speed at which social judgments are made.

What's included

9 videos14 readings3 quizzes

This week's goals are to: (1) learn how people explain their behavior and the behavior of others; (2) explore the link between attitudes and behavior; (3) understand what cognitive dissonance is and why it matters; and (4) gain some practical tips from the science of persuasion and social influence.

What's included

9 videos12 readings1 peer review

This week's goals are to: (1) understand the psychological dynamics of obedience to authority; (2) review studies on group pressure and conformity; (3) learn about the dark side of deindividuation; and (4) consider ethical issues related to psychology research.

What's included

10 videos11 readings1 peer review

This week's goals are to: (1) examine behavioral dynamics within and between groups; (2) see what happens when people fall prey to the Abilene Paradox; (3) read about social loafing, groupthink, and group polarization; and (4) learn effective ways to reduce prejudice and discrimination in daily life.

What's included

7 videos8 readings1 peer review

This week offers a chance to catch up on any course material that you've missed. There are no required videos or readings, but for those of you whose week wouldn't be complete without a little social psychology, please enjoy the optional materials in Week 5!

What's included

2 videos4 readings

This week's goals are to: (1) look at the factors that influence whether people will help one another; (2) examine the roots of aggression, violence, and terrorism; (3) learn psychological techniques to promote peace and sustainable living; and (4) carry out a personal experiment in which you spend 24 hours living as compassionately as possible.

What's included

7 videos13 readings1 quiz1 peer review

This week's goals are to: (1) consider whether empathy is a "magic bullet" for addressing social problems; (2) learn what the most important ingredients are for a happy life; (3) find out what researchers have discovered about romantic attraction and close relationships; and (4) hear about additional resources and organizations if you want to continue studying social psychology.

What's included

7 videos7 readings1 quiz

Instructor

Instructor ratings
4.9 (1,835 ratings)
Scott Plous
Wesleyan University
1 Course637,623 learners

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4.7

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