Psychology

This course covers cognitive processes (such as observation and processing information, and using and storing it), emotions, and their interrelationship. The focus is on the role of these phenomena in the design and use of Information and Communication Technology. The course is relevant for students interested in human-computer interaction and (serious) games and training applications.  

This course studies cultural influences on human thought and behavior; interactions of culture and self; multicultural experiences; intercultural relations; and methodological issues.

This course focuses on brain-behavior relationships from a developmental perspective. It increases understanding of how healthy children and adolescents (or brains) function and how brain disease, brain injury, or developmental disorders, such as ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, and learning disabilities, express themselves and interfere with the demands of daily life. Relevant topics in this context are behavior, higher cognitive functions (e.g., executive functions, memory, attention), and the level of interactions a child has with his environment since these elements determine how well individuals cope and participate in daily life situations. Normal and abnormal brain and cognitive development are discussed in preschoolers, school-aged children, and adolescents. During the course, students gain insights into (1) developmental changes in brain structure, brain functioning, and cognitive functions; (2) the clinical phenomenology of the most important developmental disorders; (3) the underlying brain-behavior relationships in these disorders; and (4) diagnosis and treatment. Students also gain experience in the selection, administration, and interpretation of commonly used neuropsychological tests, measuring the above-mentioned domains of higher cognitive functions and behavior.

This course provides research training for exchange students. Students work on a research project under the guidance of assigned faculty members. Through a full-time commitment, students improve their research skills by participating in the different phases of research, including development of research plans, proposals, data analysis, and presentation of research results. A pass/no pass grade is assigned based a progress report, self-evaluation, midterm report, presentation, and final report.

This course offers a study of the psychology of personality. Topics include: personality structures and processes; normal personality models; personality stability and change; biological and psychosocial foundations of personality; the relationship among personality, health, and psychological well-being; personality and culture. 

This course offers a comprehensive survey of psychological research and methodologies, helping students to possess a profound and objective understanding of human behavior.

The course covers the main topics of social psychology and of the psychology of communication, modernized by reference to social relations mediated by new technology. The course addresses the classic, most influential concepts and models in social psychology and communication; the pioneer, landmark studies that made the history of these disciplines; and recent approaches to mediated communication. The course discusses topics including the main theoretical and methodological frameworks; social perception and reasoning; self-schemas, self-esteem and self-presentation; models and measures of attitudes; persuasion and social influence; group processes; prosocial behavior; and mediated interaction. The course requires students to have basic knowledge of research methodology in psychology as a prerequisite.