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2019-2020 Catalogue [ARCHIVED CATALOG]
Courses
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Political Science |
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PSCI 23900 - Issues in Political Theory Course Credit: 1
ISSUES IN POLITICAL THEORY A course focusing on a selected topic concerning Political Theory. May be taken more than once. May be repeated. [HSS]
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PSCI 23908 - Pol. Theory in the International Arena Course Credit: 1
POLITICAL THEORY IN THE INTERNATIONAL ARENA Studying political theory in the international arena means investigating the ways in which the development of international politics may be explained, understood and judged. It approaches these topics through theoretical and philosophical texts (rather than empirical, quantitative, or historical material). We will read classical political philosophy texts that address questions of inter-community, city-state and nation-state relations, which form the basis for many contemporary debates in international relations. We will examine major theories of the international system – such as realism, liberalism and various critical theories – and link them up to their classical influences. We will examine several contemporary phenomena such as terrorism and human rights violations in light of the classical texts and major theories discussed. Contributions to theorizing international politics in the tradition of Western political theory will include examining the ideas of Thucydides, Machiavelli, Hobbes, Rousseau, Kant, and Marx. [HSS]
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PSCI 23909 - Language, Politics and Rhetoric Course Credit: 1
LANGUAGE, POLITICS AND RHETORIC This course examines how theories about language and the use of language impact politics. Does it matter whether we all mean the same thing when we use words like “democracy”? Can we use language “neutrally” or is it always affected by power? How do documents like declarations, manifestos and constitutions shape our political concepts and choices? Students will explore these questions conceptually with the help of political theory texts. Appropriate for all Political Science majors. [HSS]
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PSCI 23910 - Theories of Punishment Course Credit: 1
Theories of Punishment Why do we punish? How do we justify it? Is punishment, ultimately, good? In this course, we will examine a range of philosophical treatments of punishment, texts in political theory and contemporary case studies (involving issues like torture, mass incarceration, and capital punishment) in order to better triangulate the very function of punishment in society.
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PSCI 24300 - Human Rights: Theories and Methods Course Credit: 1
(GLIS)
HUMAN RIGHTS: THEORIES AND METHODS The violation of human rights remains a grave concern around the world–extralegal detentions at Guantanamo Bay; massive displacement of Syrians; political killings in South Sudan; denationalization and deportation of Haitians in the Dominican Republic. What motivates governments to violate the rights of their own citizens? Why do armed groups perpetrate war crimes, despite the risk of prosecution? What drives an individual to cross that line, to commit the most egregious violations against a fellow human being? Focusing on theories and methods, this seminar is designed to train students how to conduct ethical and rigorous research on human rights. [HSS, SJ]
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PSCI 24400 - Politics in Developing Countries Course Credit: 1
(GLIS, LAST)
POLITICS IN DEVELOPING COUNTRIES This course examines the main problems confronting developing countries, the political tools and strategies used for addressing them, and their relative success and failure given the constraints of the international economic and political order. The problems of developing countries are examined in the light of modernization, dependency, world system, political-cultural, and institutional theories and approaches, and cases from all the main parts of the developing world. Alternate Years. [C, HSS]
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PSCI 24500 - Political Violence Course Credit: 1
(GLIS)
POLITICAL VIOLENCE This course examines why political violence occurs, how it is used, what its effects are, and how it can be countered (material often classified as a sub-field of both comparative politics and political sociology). This course examines numerous subjects, including: why state and non-state actors use violent means to pursue political ends, dynamics of repression, torture, death squads, state terrorism, riots, coups, revolutions, civil wars, communal conflict, violence by insurgents and terrorists, counterinsurgencies, and why actors engage in atrocities against civilians. This course is a fully participatory social science seminar. Expectations: a background in political science, sociology or history. Alternate Years. [HSS]
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PSCI 24600 - Peace Studies Course Credit: 1
(GLIS)
PEACE STUDIES An exploration of the numerous dimensions of violence present in the world and the variety of peace tools available to address this violence. Understanding of ways to build both negative and positive peace are bolstered through review of cases of violence. Annually. [C, HSS, SJ]
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PSCI 24700 - Issues in Comparative Politics Course Credit: 1
(GLIS, LAST)
ISSUES IN COMPARATIVE POLITICS A course focusing on a selected topic concerning Comparative Politics. May be taken more than once. May be repeated. [C, HSS]
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PSCI 24728 - Democracy, Autocracy & Regime Change Course Credit: 1
(GLIS)
DEMOCRACY, AUTOCRACY & REGIME CHANGE Why do countries have different regime types? What distinguishes democracies from autocracies, and what causes transition from one system of governance to another? In this course, we will first explore various theories of democratization. We will then shift our focus to issues of democratic consolidation, democratic backsliding, and authoritarian stability. Throughout, we will draw on historical and contemporary insights from regime transitions across Europe, Latin America, and Africa. [C, HSS]
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PSCI 24730 - Sex and War Course Credit: 1
(GLIS, WGSS)
SEX AND WAR This comparative politics seminar examines the gendered dimensions and sexual politics of militarism, armed conflict, and political violence. The course starts from the basic premise that men and women’s experiences, understandings, and perceptions of war and “peace” may be different, and that examining these differences and their effects can help researchers and policymakers better understand the causes of war, and design more effective strategies for building peace. In it, we will examine questions like: How are men and women affected differently by war? What roles are played mostly by women and what roles are played mostly by men in times of war and “peace”? How are gender and sexual identities (re)produced and/or (de)stabilized during war? How do humanitarian interventions and peace processes challenge or reinforce gender and sexual relations? How are militarized masculinities organized armed groups? What are the costs of not seeing the impacts of wars on women and the presence of women combatants in wars? This course is primarily a political science course, but also integrates scholarly works from feminist international relations, women’s studies, public health, and area studies. The primary goal of the course is to encourage students to disrupt their own and other’s assumptions and the causes, dynamics, and effects of war. [C, HSS]
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PSCI 24731 - Middle East & N Africa Politic Course Credit: 1
(GLIS, MENA)
MIDDLE EAST AND NORTH AFRICA POLITICS This is a comprehensive course covering modern Middle East politics. The course will cover the general history and political dynamics of states in Western Asia and North Africa, which are commonly referred to as the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Topics covered include the regional history, institutions, political economy, identity, gender, conflict, and religion. About half of the semester will compare states’ political dynamics, while a third of the semester will cover a deeper examination of political dynamics within specific states. Students will be expected to read various texts and journal articles, participate in online and class discussion, complete essay exams, give a substantial presentation, and write a literature review paper. [C, HSS]
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PSCI 24800 - Contemporary Politics in Latin America Course Credit: 1
(GLIS, LAST)
CONTEMPORARY POLITICS IN LATIN AMERICA This course will study the political, economic and social changes that have taken place in the region since the 1980s. Particular attention will be paid to theories and processes of democratization and economic growth, poverty and social welfare in the region, and citizen demands for inclusion and political representation. Students will leave the class with a greater appreciation of the region and the ability to make informed and reasoned arguments about a wide variety of political and social issues facing contemporary Latin America. Alternate Years. [C, HSS]
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PSCI 24900 - The Government & Politics of Africa Course Credit: 1
(AFST, GLIS)
THE GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS OF AFRICA A general overview of Africa’s encounter with Europe and its after-effects. The course will also be concerned with the various ways in which African countries have attempted to build viable political and economic systems. Alternate Years. [C, D, GE, HSS]
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PSCI 40000 - Tutorial Course Credit: 1
TUTORIAL A tutorial course on a special topic may be offered to an individual student under the supervision of a faculty member. May be repeated.
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PSCI 40101 - Research Methods and Design Course Credit: 1
(GLIS)
RESEARCH METHODS AND DESIGN This course is a survey of various methodologies employed in the study of political science as a foundation for Senior Independent Study. It emphasizes research design, hypothesis construction, data collection, and a variety of forms of empirical political analysis. PSCI 40101 is a prerequisite for enrolling in PSCI 45100. Political science majors normally take PSCI 40101 in their junior year. In the rare case of a student spending their entire junior year off-campus, they must notify the Chair of the Department of Political Science no later than fall semester of their sophomore year so arrangements can be made for the student to take the course in spring semester of their sophomore year. The department recommends that students have at least one introductory course and one 200-level course in their concentration field prior to enrolling in PSCI 40101. Students with a field specialization in Political Theory are exempt from this requirement but are required to take PSCI 40102 instead. Annually.
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PSCI 40102 - Research in Political Theory Course Credit: 1
RESEARCH IN POLITICAL THEORY This tutorial surveys the major contemporary approaches to political theory, including textual analysis, hermeneutics, critical theory and conceptual analysis, and focuses on research design and writing in political theory. Course requirements include the design and completion of a substantial research paper in political theory. This course is a prerequisite to enrolling in PSCI-45100 in Field III, Political Theory. By arrangement with the instructor and the chair of the department. Annually.
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PSCI 41000 - Internships Course Credit: 0.25
Maximum Credit: 1
INTERNSHIPS For a detailed discussion of the various internships available through the Washington Semester Program, see the description under Off-Campus Study and Internships. For internships with a focus in Political Science, the Washington Semester’s part-time internship is accredited as PSCI-41000. Since the prerequisites differ for the different internships, the student should consult the Washington Semester adviser with in the Political Science Department. May be repeated.
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PSCI 45100 - Independent Study Thesis Course Credit: 1
(GLIS)
SENIOR INDEPENDENT STUDY–SEMESTER ONE The first semester of the Senior Independent Study project, in which each student engages in creative and independent research guided by a faculty mentor and which culminates in a thesis and an oral examination in the second semester. Prerequisite(s): PSCI-40101 or PSCI-40102 depending on concentration field Annually.
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PSCI 45200 - Independent Study Thesis Course Credit: 1
(GLIS)
SENIOR INDEPENDENT STUDY–SEMESTER TWO The second semester of the Senior Independent Study project, which culminates in the thesis and an oral examination. Prerequisite(s): PSCI-45100 Annually.
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Psychology |
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PSYC 10000 - Introduction to Psychology Course Credit: 1
(NEUR)
INTRODUCTION TO PSYCHOLOGY An introduction to psychological theory, research, and methods. Coverage includes basic neurological processes, principles of learning and cognition, individual differences in personality, developmental processes, sensation and perception, mental health, and social influences on behavior. Annually. [HSS]
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PSYC 11000 - Child & Adolescent Development Course Credit: 1
(COMD, COMM, EDUC)
CHILD AND ADOLESCENT DEVELOPMENT A study of the processes that contribute to the development of the individual as a person, emphasizing the child from conception to early adolescence. This course is intended primarily for students seeking licensure in Education. Psychology majors and minors are strongly encouraged to enroll in PSYC 10000. A 2-hour per week field placement at the College of Wooster Nursery School is required of all students. The field placement satisfies licensure requirements for Education minor students. Precludes enrollment in PSYC 32700. Annually. [HSS]
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PSYC 21200 - Abnormal Psychology Course Credit: 1
(COMD, NEUR)
ABNORMAL PSYCHOLOGY Examines the origin, development, and classification of abnormal behavior and human psychopathology. Topics will include mood and anxiety disorders, psychosis, substance-related disorders, and disorders usually diagnosed in childhood. Prerequisite(s): PSYC-10000 [HSS]
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PSYC 21500 - Psychology of Women & Gender Course Credit: 1
(COMM, WGSS)
PSYCHOLOGY OF WOMEN AND GENDER This course focuses on the societal construction and significance of gender, as well as the psychological implications of events unique to women. We will engage in critical examination of theories and evidence concerning differences between women and men. Prerequisite(s): PSYC-10000 Alternate Years. [HSS]
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PSYC 21800 - Animal Cognition Course Credit: 1
ANIMAL COGNITION Animal cognition is designed to attract students from a variety of disciplines (especially psychology, biology, anthropology and neuroscience), to explore the comparative science of cognitive processes in a wide range of animals, including humans. We examine research from a number of different fields and perspectives, including experimental psychology, ethology, neuroscience, physical anthropology, biology, evolutionary psychology, and developmental psychology. The course covers a wide range of animal abilities , including associate learning, navigational abilities, perceptual and memory processes, quantitative abilities, observational learning and imitation, and self-awareness, cooperation, language and the capacity to teach others. Prerequisite(s): PSYC-10000 [HSS]
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PSYC 22000 - Stereotypes & Prejudice Course Credit: 1
(COMM)
STEROTYPES AND PREJUDICE from a social psychological perspective. The course will familiarize students with both basic and advanced concepts in areas such as the origins and development of stereotypes and prejudice, social identity theory, affective and motivational processes, automatic and controlled processes and prejudice reduction. Emphasis is placed upon empirical research. Prerequisite(s): Take PSYC-10000 [C, D, HSS]
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PSYC 22500 - Environmental Psychology Course Credit: 1
(ENVS)
ENVIRONMENTAL PSYCHOLOGY The field of environmental psychology explores the interrelationships between people and their physical environments, including both built and natural environments. This course covers the major areas of research in environmental psychology, including effects of the environment on humans, human perception of the environment, the relationship between humans and the natural world, and psychological factors affecting human care for the natural environment. We will also consider how this information can be applied to promote a healthier relationship between humans and their environment. Prerequisite(s): PSYC-10000; or permission of the instructor Alternate Years. [HSS]
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PSYC 23000 - Human Neuropsychology Course Credit: 1
(COMM, NEUR)
HUMAN NEUROPSYCHOLOGY This course will explore the functioning of the fascinating human brain by discussing how we make decisions, how we rationalize choices, how we consider emotions and how we learn, to name a few. The course emphasizes the various methodologies used to assess the functions of brain regions and behavior through case studies as well as empirical research. Prerequisite(s): PSYC-10000 Annually. [HSS]
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PSYC 23500 - Evolutionary Psychology Course Credit: 1
(NEUR)
EVOLUTIONARY PSYCHOLOGY The course provides an integrated approach to studying human behavior based on an evolutionary model. Using Darwin’s theory of natural and sexual selection we will investigate adaptive problems such as predator avoidance, inter-group aggression, mate selection, child rearing, and negotiating social relationships. Other topics include: “human nature,” the origins and functions of various behavioral sex differences, the evolutionary basis of nepotism, gene-behavior relations, reproductive behavior, and how culture and social learning interface with Darwinian evolution. Prerequisite(s): PSYC-10000 [HSS]
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PSYC 25000 - Intro to Statistics & Experimental, Design Course Credit: 1
(ENVS, NEUR)
INTRODUCTION TO STATISTICS AND EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN Introduction to the basic principles of descriptive statistics, inferential statistics, and experimental design. Includes SPSS instruction and a one-hour laboratory. Minimum grade of C is required to advance in the major or minor. Prerequisite(s): PSYC-10000 Annually. [Q, QL]
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PSYC 29900 - Topics in Psychology Course Credit: 1
TOPICS IN PSYCHOLOGY A course in which traditional concepts, methods and theories in psychology are applied to a specific topic issue. Topics selected yearly and announced in advance by the faculty member responsible for the course. Prerequisite(s): PSYC-10000 [HSS]
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PSYC 29910 - Applied Psychology Course Credit: 1
APPLIED PSYCHOLOGY This class covers how the field of psychology applies to human well-being outside of traditional laboratory and basic research settings. Many applied and translational research domains will be covered, including psychological applications to health, medicine, education, the environment, and occupational organizations. Enrollment in this class may also involve opportunities to integrate class topics into summer research. Prerequisite(s): PSYC-10000
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PSYC 29911 - Mechanisms of Learning and Memory Course Credit: 1
Mechanisms of Learning and Memory How do humans learn? Historically, psychology has approached this question from two distinct theoretical frameworks: behaviorism and cognitivism. In this course, we review both frameworks through an overview and discussion of psychology’s most important experimental discoveries. Prerequisite(s): PSYC-10000
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PSYC 29912 - Principles of Learner Motivation Course Credit: 1
PSYC-29912 Principles of Learner Motivation Ever wonder what motivates student learning? This course focuses on theories and concepts of human motivation. while exploring what motivates students to learn, and examine strategies, techniques and interventions that promote and sustain learner motivation. [HSS]
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PSYC 31500 - Music and Speech Perception Course Credit: 1
(NEUR)
MUSIC AND SPEECH PERCEPTION Music and speech have long been proposed to have common evolutionary roots. Both have a hierarchical structure and complex rhythm. Both convey emotion and share many other communicative properties. In this class we will examine theory, methodology and phenomena surrounding the perception and production of music and speech with a particular focus on the overlap between these two domains. One goal of this course is to provide a strong foundation for conducting a research project in this area, either as an I.S. project or in another capacity. Prerequisite(s): PSYC-25000
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PSYC 32100 - Learning & Behavior Course Credit: 1
(NEUR)
LEARNING AND BEHAVIOR Detailed critical examination of theory, research and applications of learning processes, from simple associative processes (classical and operant conditioning) to complex processes (conceptual abstraction and reasoning). Scientific writing is emphasized. Three-hour weekly laboratory with additional outside hours for animal testing. Class and laboratory components are closely integrated and must be taken concurrently. Prerequisite(s): PSYC-25000; PSYC-32100L Annually. [W]
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PSYC 32200 - Memory & Cognition Course Credit: 1
(COMM, NEUR)
MEMORY AND COGNITION Analysis of complex human behavior, including learning, memory, perception, and cognition. Scientific writing is emphasized in this course. Includes a 3-hour laboratory in addition to class. The laboratory and classroom components are closely integrated and must be taken concurrently. Prerequisite(s): PSYC-25000; PSYC-32200L [W]
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PSYC 32300 - Behavioral Neuroscience Course Credit: 1
(NEUR)
BEHAVIORAL NEUROSCIENCE An introduction to the anatomical and physiological basis of animal and human behavior. Content areas include basic neuronal physiology and brain anatomy, neural/endocrine interactions, methods in neuroscience, control of movement, sexual development and behavior, sleep, learning and memory and physiological correlates of psychopathology. Includes a 3-hour laboratory in addition to class. The laboratory and classroom components are closely integrated and must be taken concurrently. Precludes enrollment in PSYC 32400. Recommended: NEUR-20000 Prerequisite(s): PSYC-25000 or BIOL-20300 ; PSYC-32300L Annually. [W]
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PSYC 32400 - Cognitive Neuroscience (neuroscience) Course Credit: 1
(NEUR)
COGNITIVE NEUROSCIENCE This course examines how the human brain gives rise to cognitive abilities like perception, attention, language, emotion, memory, problem solving and creative thinking. Topics include the cognitive theories proposed for these human abilites,the neural structures responsible for these abilities and the methods employed to measure brain behavior relationships. Includes a 3-hour laboratory in addition to class. The laboratory and classroom components are closely integrated and must be taken concurrently. Precludes enrollment in PSYC-32300. Prerequisite(s): Take PSYC-25000 or BIOL-20300 Annually. [HSS, W]
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PSYC 32500 - Personality: Theory & Research Course Credit: 1
PERSONALITY: THEORY AND RESEARCH This course emphasizes theories of human personality and research generated from the theories. Scientific writing is emphasized in this course, which includes a 3-hour laboratory in addition to class. The laboratory and classroom components are closely integrated and must be taken concurrently. Prerequisite(s): PSYC-25000; PSYC-32500L Annually. [W]
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PSYC 32600 - Educational Psychology Course Credit: 1
EDUCATIONAL PSYCHOLOGY. This course will focus on key concepts from educational psychology and related disciplines (e.g., cognitive and developmental psychology). The role of psychology in an educational setting is to help educators “see” better the internal, external and socialized learning process that are occurring in and out of the classroom which allows one to understand and appreciate learning, the diversity of learners and the variations of learning within oneself. Prerequisite(s): PSYC-25000; PSYC-32600L Annually. [W]
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PSYC 32700 - Developmental Psyc:Theory & Research Course Credit: 1
(EDUC)
DEVELOPMENTAL PSYCHOLOGY: THEORY AND RESEARCH A survey of methods, research topics, and theory in developmental psychology. Scientific writing is emphasized in this course. Includes a 3-hour laboratory in addition to class. The laboratory and classroom components are closely integrated and must be taken concurrently. A 2-hour per week field placement at The College of Wooster Nursery School is required of all students. The field placement satisfies licensure requirements for Education minor students. Prerequisite(s): PSYC-25000; PSYC-32700L Annually. [W]
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PSYC 33000 - Social Psychology: Theory & Research Course Credit: 1
SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY: THEORY AND RESEARCH This course surveys theory and research on human social cognition and behavior, addressing the ways in which human beings are affected by others and covering topics such as social influence, prosocial and antisocial interactions, and relationships. Scientific writing is emphasized in this course. Includes a 3-hour laboratory in addition to class. The laboratory and classroom components are closely integrated and must be taken concurrently. Prerequisite(s): PSYC-25000; PSYC-33000L Annually. [W]
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PSYC 33100 - Clinical Psychology Course Credit: 1
CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY This course is designed to develop clinically-oriented critical thinking (e.g., How do clinicians approach cases, challenges, research?). It covers professional issues, ethics, research methodologies, clinical assessment and therapeutic modalities. Prerequisite(s): PSYC-25000
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PSYC 33500 - Perception and Action Course Credit: 1
(COMD, COMM, NEUR)
PERCEPTION AND ACTION This course reviews principles of perception and models of how perceptual information is acquired, represented cognitively, and used to interact with the environment. Primary topic areas will include vision and hearing with a particular focus on how these systems interact with the motor system. Evolutionary, psychophysical, and physiological perspectives are emphasized. Scientific writing is also emphasized in this course. Includes a 3-hour arranged laboratory to addition to class. The laboratory and classroom components are closely integrated and must be taken concurrently. Prerequisite(s): PSYC-25000; PSYC-33500L Annually. [W]
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PSYC 34500 - Drugs and Behavior Course Credit: 1
(NEUR)
DRUGS AND BEHAVIOR. This course is an introduction to the pharmacological and psychological mechanisms of drugs that influence brain functioning. We will investigate drug use and drug actions by drawing from scientific investigations of their use. The course will cover basic structure and function of the nervous system, drug classification and development, basic principles of pharmacology, as well as the role of learning and addiction. We will spend most of our time discussing the behavioral, cognitive, and physiological effects of specific drugs of abuse and neuropharmacological use. Prerequisite(s): PSYC-25000; or permission of instructor.
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PSYC 34600 - Face Recognition Course Credit: 1
(NEUR)
FACE RECOGNITION Human faces are some of the most complex objects in our visual world. Despite this complexity, humans excel at recognizing faces. Even newborns can identify faces shortly after birth. Faces possess a wealth of information which is crucial for everyday life. In this course, we use empirical papers to investigate the fascinating field of face recognition. We examine theoretical models of how faces are recognized, learn about the brain areas involved, analyze problems with face recognition in clinical populations and everyday situations, and learn how people extract other information than person identity from faces. Prerequisite(s): PSYC-25000 [HSS, Q]
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PSYC 38500 - Attachment Course Credit: 1
ATTACHMENT This course explores the theories and research regarding the phenomena of attachment in humans and non-human species. We examine research from a number of different fields and perspectives, including developmental psychology, ethology, psychobiology and evolutionary psychology. The course covers a range of topics related to attachment, including physical and cognitive development, motor abilities, personality and emotional development, adult attachment, attachments to animals, and attachment in non-human species. Prerequisite(s): PSYC-25000 or permission of instructor.
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PSYC 39500 - History of Psychology Course Credit: 1
HISTORY OF PSYCHOLOGY A study of changing views of psychology from Aristotle to the present, with emphasis on the influences of ideas and methodologies on the evolution of systems and theories of psychological thought over the past hundred years. The course offers an integrative perspective on the varied courses of the Psychology major. Prerequisite(s): A 300-level Psychology lab course; Psychology major
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PSYC 39900 - Advanced Topics in Psychology Course Credit: 1
ADVANCED TOPICS IN PSYCHOLOGY Special courses on selected topics offered for a single time. Topics are selected yearly. Prerequisite(s): PSYC-25000; Junior or Senior standing with advanced background in PSYC
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PSYC 39906 - Judgment and Decision Making Course Credit: 1
JUDGMENT AND DECISION MAKING This class covers irrational behavior and biases people display in their reasoning and decisions, drawing from cognitive, social, and developmental psychology, as well as neuroscience. Many cognitive biases involve misinterpretation of numeric information–often causing harmful outcomes, but occasionally beneficial. When possible, we’ll cover how best to address these biases to improve decisions, with applications to medicine, health, law, consumer behavior, and economics. Prerequisite(s): PSYC-25000; Junior or Senuior standing with advanced background in Psychology.
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PSYC 39909 - Lifelong Reading Course Credit: 1
PSYC-39909 Lifelong Reading The skilled reader takes words off the page effortlessly; encountering a printed word automatically activates the word’s meaning. How do skilled readers do this? How do developing readers become skilled readers? Reading is an extremely complex skill that relies on numerous cognitive processes. This course will cover basic reading processes, fundamental theories of reading, and common methodologies used in reading research. This course will examine language abilities in early childhood, reading development and disorders, skilled reading processes, and age-related changes in older readers. Prerequisite(s): PSYC-25000, minimum grade C-; or Junior/Senior standing with advanced background in PSYC
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PSYC 39925 - Psychology of Film Course Credit: 1
PSYCHOLOGY OF FILM Since the invention of film, psychologists have asked how film, mere projections of light on a screen, can have such a profound influence on the emotions, memories, and lives of people. Focusing on cognitive principles of perception, attention, and comprehension, this course will cover historical and current, cutting-edge research that investigates how we comprehend film, and how research on film can be used to pursue an understanding of the cognitive mechanisms that allow us to comprehend the real world. Prerequisite(s): PSYC-25000; Minimum grade C-
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PSYC 39926 - Developmental Psychobiology Course Credit: 1
Developmental Psychobiology Developmental Psychobiology is an interdisciplinary science incorporating theories and research from psychology, biology, ethology, control systems theory, and evolutionary theory. Two criteria are often used to define the discipline: (1) any psychological or behavioral phenomenon must be identified and described according to how it is expressed in the specific contexts in which it typically occurs; and (2) the entire spectrum of biology, chemistry, and physics must be incorporated into psychological and behavioral phenomena for an accurate understanding of developmental processes. Issues of nature vs. nurture and epigenetics will have a particular focus in the course, as will the prenatal and perinatal periods of development. The course takes a comparative perspective and will explore the fundamental relationship between evolution and development, phylogeny and ontogeny, in multiple species. Prerequisite(s): PSYC-25000; or permission of instructor
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PSYC 40000 - Tutorial Course Credit: 0.25
Maximum Credit: 1.25
TUTORIAL A tutorial course on special topics offered to an individual student under the supervision of a faculty member. Prerequisite: The approval of both the supervising faculty member and the chairperson is required prior to registration. May be repeated. Annually.
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PSYC 41000 - Internship Course Credit: 0.25
Maximum Credit: 1
INTERNSHIP ***MUST VISIT REGISTRAR (APEX) TO ADD COURSE*** This course can only be added to your schedule by visiting the Registrar’s Office. If you do not visit the Registrar’s office, you cannot add this course to your schedule. A structured, usually off-campus experience, in which a student extends classroom knowledge to a work position within a community, business, or governmental organization. Student interns work and learn under the joint guidance of a host organization supervisor and a College of Wooster mentor. The student must arrange the internship in advance through the appropriate department or program. No more than six internships, and a maximum of four Wooster course credits, will count toward graduation. The form for registering for an internship and the Internship Learning Plan are available in the office of the Registrar. May be repeated. S/NC
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PSYC 45100 - Independent Study Thesis Course Credit: 1
(NEUR)
SENIOR INDEPENDENT STUDY–SEMESTER ONE The first semester of the Senior Independent Study project, in which each student engages in creative and independent research guided by a faculty mentor and which culminates in a thesis and an oral examination in the second semester. The Independent Study Thesis must be a data-gathering research project. Students are encouraged to base their projects on a study from the experimental, comparative, personality, developmental, social, clinical, or neuroscience literature. Prerequisite(s): Two 300-level laboratory classes in PSYC Annually.
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PSYC 45200 - Independent Study Thesis Course Credit: 1
(NEUR)
SENIOR INDEPENDENT STUDY–SEMESTER TWO The second semester of the Senior Independent Study project, which culminates in the thesis and an oral examination. Prerequisite(s): PSYC-45100 Annually.
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Religious Studies |
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RELS 10000 - Religious Thought & Action Course Credit: 1
RELIGIOUS THOUGHT AND ACTION This course examines what constitutes “religion” in the United States, a question of significance since the Constitution theoretically protects the “free exercise of religion.” In order to investigate what qualifies as religion, the semester will begin with an introduction into how Islam, Judaism, and Native American traditions came to be understood as religions. The second half of the course will explore how religion is understood within American law and politics and will question if “religious freedom” exists in the United States. Annually. [AH, C, R]
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RELS 10101 - Religion in Human History Course Credit: 1
RELIGION IN HUMAN HISTORY An introduction to religion as a form of human behavior and to the study of religions, by means of studying current understandings of religion-related behaviors in human development, in human prehistories, and as identifiable cultural forms in emergent historical human cultures in the South Asian, East Asian, and Mediterranean worlds. NOTE: This course replaces RELS 11000: Comparative Religious Traditions: East & West. Students who have taken that course should not take this one. [R]
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RELS 11000 - Comp Religious Trad: East West, West Course Credit: 1
COMPARATIVE RELIGIOUS TRADITIONS: EAST WEST An introduction to studying religion and religions in a modern global perspective, through comparative examination in historical context of selected examples of practice and belief, and the place of religious traditions in cultures, historically and in the modern world. Annually. [AH, C, R]
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RELS 11001 - Comp Religious Traditions: Near East Course Credit: 1
COMPARATIVE RELIGIOUS TRADITIONS: NEAR EAST This class will critique approaches to Near Eastern religions and culture particularly through a Religious Studies perspective. It will investigate problems with defining religion both theoretically and through case studies of Near Eastern religions. The course is divided into two portions, starting with approaches and methods, followed by a text-focused portion involving intensive reading of one “religious” book through an investigation into why it was written and what purposes it serves. Annually. [AH, C, R]
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RELS 11002 - Comp. Religious Traditions: South Asia Course Credit: 1
(SAST)
COMPARATIVE RELIGIOUS TRADITIONS: SOUTH ASIA An introduction to studying religion and religions through comparative and historical examination of selected traditions (such as Hinduism, Jainism, Islam, Sikhism) and their interactions in the broader cultures of South Asia. [AH, C, R]
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RELS 12000 - Intro to Biblical Studies Course Credit: 1
(AMST, CLST, HIST, MENA)
INTRODUCTION TO BIBLICAL STUDIES Introduces the examination of basic issues of reading the Bible in an academic setting. Special attention will be given to the biblical texts as resources for understanding political, social, and religious discourses in the ancient world. The student will encounter introductions to historical, literary and feminist methodologies. Annually. [AH, C, R]
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RELS 12001 - Hebrew Bible Course Credit: 1
INTRO TO BIBLICAL STUDIES: HEBREW BIBLE Examines concepts and Institutions covenant, monotheism, law, land, exile,prophecy, priesthood, monarchy, sacred history central to life and world view of ancient Israel; addresses how the contemporary conflict politicizes the text. [AH]
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RELS 12002 - The New Testament Course Credit: 1
(AMST, CLST, MENA)
THE NEW TESTAMENT This is an introductory course to the history and literature of the New Testament. Our primary focus will be to read select texts of the New Testament, with an emphasis on their literary nature, their historical problems and sources, their theological visions, and their historical, geographic, social, religious, political, and cultural contexts in early Jewish and Greco-Roman worlds. One will have the opportunity to situate one’s questions about and approaches to these texts in light of the history of scholarly research and through critical reflection about the methods and goals of interpretation. [AH, C, R]
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RELS 12003 - The Hebrew Bible and History Course Credit: 1
(HIST, MENA)
THE HEBREW BIBLE AND HISTORY Introduction to the books of the Hebrew Bible/Old Testament and how critical scholarship uses them as a source for the history of ancient Israel and its culture. Examines central Israelite social and religious institutions and concepts (covenant, monarchy, priesthood), with particular attention to the intersection between history and theology in Israelite thought. Addresses the polemical use of this text today in the US culture wars as well as in the Israel-Palestine conflict. [AH, C, R]
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RELS 13000 - American Religious Communities Course Credit: 1
AMERICAN RELIGIOUS COMMUNITIES An examination of the tension between religious power and religious pluralism using examples from major religious groups and issues throughout American history. Annually. [AH, C, R]
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RELS 21700 - African Religions Course Credit: 1
AFRICAN RELIGIONS This course explores African religious thought and practice. While the focus is on traditional African religions, it also investigates the impact of African thought and culture on Christianity and Islam on the African continent. The course includes the study of the role of religion in contemporary African culture and politics. [AH, C, R]
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RELS 21800 - Hinduism Course Credit: 1
(SAST)
HINDUISM Hindu concepts and practices as reflected in texts such as the Vedas, Upanishads, and Bhagavad-Gita and in religious practice in Indian cultures through the centuries, with attention to sects and modern reform movements. [AH, C, R]
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RELS 21900 - Ethics in a Social Perspective Course Credit: 1
ETHICS IN A SOCIAL PERSPECTIVE A comparison of the ethical insights of a variety of Eastern and Western religious traditions as they relate to current social problems, such as war and peace, social justice, death and dying, and bioethics. [C, R]
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RELS 22000 - Buddhism Course Credit: 1
(EAST, SAST)
BUDDHISM Buddhist concepts and practices, including karma, rebirth, and devotion, as found in religious writings and as practiced through history, across Asian cultures. [AH, C, R]
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RELS 22200 - Islam Course Credit: 1
(MENA, SAST, WGSS)
ISLAM The foundations of Islam as set forth in the Qur’an, the life of the prophet Mohammad, Muslim philosophers and mystics as reflected in Middle Eastern and South Asian cultures, with attention to central concepts of revelation, community, law, and worship. Annually. [AH, C, R]
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RELS 22500 - Jesus in History and Tradition Course Credit: 1
(AMST, CLST, MENA)
Jesus in History and Tradition An examination of the views, problems, and hypotheses about the identities of Jesus in the first few centuries C.E. Historical issues and religious-cultural implications of the “afterlife” of Jesus will be investigated. Attention will be given to Gnostic and Rabbinic references to Jesus. The course encourages students to develop a critical awareness about the complexities involved when we talk about Jesus in today’s world. [AH, C, GE, R, W]
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RELS 23000 - The Life & Thought of Mahatma Gandhi Course Credit: 1
(SAST)
THE LIFE AND THOUGHT OF MAHATMA GANDHI A study of the life and thought of Mahatma Gandhi and his philosophy of non-violence as reflected in his ideas about religion, politics, economics, social work, etc., in comparison with such movements as Sarvodaya, Civil Rights, Liberation Theology, and the Women’s Movement. Also includes discussion of contemporary Gandhians and their application of Gandhian thought to their personal lives and social movements. Prerequisite(s): Take RELS-10000 or RELS-11000; or permission of instructor Alternate Years. [C, R, W]
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RELS 23300 - Judaism Course Credit: 1
(MENA)
JUDAISM Presents the Jewish religious tradition and its historical evolution, its sacred texts, practices and beliefs, and modern movements within Judaism, with particular attention to central concepts of covenant, divine authority, and the interdependence of religion and people hood. Alternate Years. [AH, C, R]
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RELS 23900 - Global Christianity Course Credit: 1
GLOBAL CHRISTIANITY This course examines the social, cultural, economic, legal, and religious dynamics of global Christianity in its emerging centers of Latin America, Asia, Africa as well as Europe. Readings for this course will focus on the study of global Christianities as a discipline and will explore the socio-religious power-dynamics of Christianity as both hegemonic and marginal traditions. Our study will focus on themes of mediation, culture and conversion, multiple modernities, neoliberalism, and post-secularism. [AH, C, R]
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RELS 24100 - New Religious Movements Course Credit: 1
NEW RELIGIOUS MOVEMENTS An examination of America’s marginal but influential religious movements such as . 19th Century groups like the include Mormons, Spiritualism, Jehovah’s Witnesses, Christian Scientists, and 20th Century practices such as theand traditions include Hare Krishnas, the Unnification Church, New Age spiritualities, Scientology, Branch Davidians, and Wicca. [AH, C, R]
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RELS 24300 - Religious Autobiography & Biography Course Credit: 1
RELIGIOUS AND SPIRITUAL AUTOBIOGRAPHY This course studies the many religious purposes (e.g. the understanding of religious experience, formation of religious identity, presentation of a moral or religious ideal, social criticism) that religious autobiographies serve. Such writings also provide readers a window into individual religious lives, experiences, and cultures. Writings selected may include classic Western religious autobiographies such as Augustine’s Confessions as well as other writings, both historical and contemporary, from a variety of religious traditions. [AH, R]
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RELS 24700 - Native American Religions & Cultures Course Credit: 1
NATIVE AMERICAN RELIGIONS AND CULTURES A study of tradition and change within the historical and modern religions of various regional Native American tribal groups, including Pan-Indian activism and revitalization. [AH, C, R]
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RELS 26100 - The Black Relgious Experience in America Course Credit: 1
(AFST)
BLACK RELIGIOUS EXPERIENCE IN AMERICA An interdisciplinary study of Black religious experience, institutions, leadership, thought, and social movements in American society, with emphasis on the work of King, Malcolm X, and the Womanist tradition. Alternate Years. [C, R]
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RELS 26300 - Religion & Literature Course Credit: 1
RELIGION AND LITERATURE This course examines the ways in which modern and contemporary writers represent religious traditions and experiences, make use of religious narratives and themes and confront religious questions in their novels, short stories, and poetry. Alternate Years. [AH, R, W]
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RELS 26400 - Religion and Film Course Credit: 1
(FILM)
RELIGION AND FILM This course examines the interactions of religions and religious life with the electronic media technologies of film and video. Through such a course, students can arrive at better understandings of the place of religions in contemporary cultures, the aesthetics of film and video, and the place of these media as communicators of cultural phenomena such as religion. [AH, C, R]
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RELS 26720 - Asian Religions in America Course Credit: 1
(CHIN, EAST)
ASIAN RELIGIONS IN AMERICA This course focuses on the histories & present circumstances of immigrant communities & traditions in America, from “Asian” cultures & religious traditions (e.g., immigrants from East Asian & South Asian cultures, & bringing religious cultures such as Buddhism & Hinduism to American culture). How have these persons & communities who have migrated to the USA (from the 19th to the 21st centuries) found & made homes in the American religious landscape? How have they adapted their religious identities & traditions as they have become part of American society? Alternate Years. [R]
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RELS 26732 - Race, Gender, Class - Interpretation Course Credit: 1
(WGSS)
RACE, GENDER, AND CLASS IN BIBLICAL This course examines a variety of contemporary approaches in biblical studies (e.g., liberationist, postcolonial, feminist, womanist), which emphasizes the social-cultural context of the interpreter as a normative principle in the work of interpretation. Race/ethnicity, gender & sexuality, and class will be figured as the primary categories of this interpretive move. Special attention will be given to the recent works from scholars of color-African American, Latino/a American, and Asian American-in North American context. [AH, C, R]
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RELS 26735 - The Bible & Contemporary Issues Course Credit: 1
THE BIBLE & CONTEMPORARY ISSUES In this course students will critically examine 1) what the Bible says or does not say about a wide range of controversial issues and 2) some of the ways that biblical texts have been employed as an authoritative resource for discussing and regulating ethics and identity from antiquity to today. We will be especially interested in the ways the Bible is used in contemporary discussions of some contentious issues in North American context, the nature of such contemporary interpretations, and the degree to which a person can or should be held responsible for the implications or applications of such interpretations. [AH, R]
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RELS 26737 - East Asian Buddhism Course Credit: 1
(CHIN, EAST)
EAST ASIAN BUDDHISM This course studies the transmission to and transformation of Buddhism as it moved from its South Asian roots to East Asian cultures (China, Korea, Japan, Vietnam), and became a vital part of those cultures. Varieties of Buddhist practice and thought across East Asian cultures will be studied, in historical and modern examples. [R]
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RELS 26738 - Hebrew Scripts in Judaism & Christianity Course Credit: 1
(AMST, CLST, MENA)
THE HEBREW SCRIPTURES IN JUDAISM AND CHRISTIANITY Judaism and Christianity are two rival cultural systems that developed out of the complex world of first-century Judaism, in part by interpreting and reinterpreting a sacred text known to Jews as the Tanakh and to Christians as the Old Testament. This course examines how these two traditions diverged through the first three centuries of the Common Era by analyzing significant concepts and practices (such as messiah, atonement, and the Sabbath) that each tradition derived from the Hebrew Scriptures. Some familiarity with the biblical texts would be desirable but not required. [R]
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RELS 26740 - Buddhist Visual & Material Cultures Course Credit: 1
(CHIN, EAST, SAST)
BUDDHIST VISUAL & MATERIAL CULTURES A study of Buddhist histories and cultures through a study of Buddhist visual and material arts. The focus is on the images, objects and environments that Buddhists have made, the practices they have engaged in and the meanings they have made by creating and interacting with those images, objects, and environments. Although this course has no prerequisite, this is not an introductory course in Religious Studies. [R]
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RELS 26741 - Technologies of the Self Course Credit: 1
TECHNOLOGIES OF THE SELF What is the self, and how does this change with historical and social context? Where does the body end? Can selves be shared? Are your clothes an extension of yourself, or your phone? How do we develop what the self is through everyday practice? [R]
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RELS 26742 - Buddhist Travelers Across Asia Course Credit: 1
(EAST, SAST)
BUDDHIST TRAVELERS ACROSS ASIA This course examines the movements and developments of Buddhist practices and traditions, from first-hand accounts from the ancient world by travelers such as Xuanzang, Hyecho, Ennin and others, allowing them to teach us what diverse Buddhist worlds looked like more than a thousand years ago. We will also consider the relations of those ancient exemplars to some modern and contemporary Buddhist travelers and movements. REGISTRATION NOTE: This is not an introductory course. While there is no formal prerequisite, some previous course work in Religious Studies or course work that focuses on China, East Asia, or South Asia is expected. [R]
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RELS 26743 - Iranian History and Cinema Course Credit: 1
(FILM, HIST, MENA)
Iranian History and Cinema This course studies the development of Iranian cinema in political and social context. Topics include pre- and post-Revolution changes in society and cinema production, censorship, gender roles, religious institutions, social commentary, political dissent, and relations to Persian literature and cultural history. Regular film viewings outside of class are required and will be in Persian with English subtitles. [R]
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RELS 26911 - Religion and the Environment Course Credit: 1
(ENVS)
RELIGION AND THE ENVIRONMENT A study of the role of a variety of religious traditions in shaping worldviews, values and behavior related to human interaction with the natural world. The course will look at both the destructive effects religion has had and various religious initiatives that are currently working to generate ecologically sustainable patterns of human interaction with the natural world. At the core will also be the focus on traditional religious values which focus on justice and neighbor love. Embedded in these concepts are the notion that “the affluent must live more simply” so that others may have the resources necessary so that they might “simply live”. Alternate Years. [R]
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RELS 26925 - Religious Visual & Material Culture Course Credit: 1
RELISIOUG VISUAL AND MATERIAL CULTURE A study religions in practice, by means of visual and material images, objects & environments, and their uses and meanings, both within religious contexts and as these items circulate across religious boundaries and into secular contexts. No prerequisite, but note: This is not an introductory RELS course. [R]
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RELS 26933 - Religion and Science Course Credit: 1
TOPICS IN THEORIES AND ISSUES IN THE STUDY OF RELIGION An examination of one major issue involving the interface of sociological, ethical, and theoretical factors, such as Religion, Violence and Peacemaking; Interfaith Dialogue; Religion and the Environment; and Third World Feminist Theology. Alternate Years. [R]
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RELS 26935 - Just Work Course Credit: 1.25
JUST WORK An exploration of work with a focus on what makes work meaningful and what makes it dehumanizing. Also a discussion of how we assign values and monetary compensation to various forms of work. Why is it that some of the hardest and most dangerous work is not socially valued or well compensated. There is an experiential learning component as all students will work three to four hours a week in housekeeping, grounds or food service. Alternate Years. [R]
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RELS 26937 - Religion, Race, Gender, Class in America Course Credit: 1
(WGSS)
RELIGION, RACE, CLASS & GENDER IN AMERICA [R]
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RELS 26940 - Pop Culture in Medieval Islam Course Credit: 1
(MENA)
POP CULTURE IN MEDIEVAL ISLAM Partying, music, crime, graffiti, memory-enhancing drugs, clothing in the medieval Islamic world (8th-16th centuries). Introduction to a social history approach to medieval Islam, and a basis for keener interest in Islamic literature, philosophy, history, art, and law. This course is reading intensive and is not an introduction to Islam. [R]
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RELS 26941 - Religion and the Brain Course Credit: 1
RELIGION AND THE BRAIN This course engages the study of religions with neuroscience, exploring ways in which neuroscience contributes to the study of religions, and the ways in which religious studies can inform neuroscience-based understandings of religious phenomena. Prerequisite(s): NEUR-20000 [R]
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RELS 26942 - The Bible and Popular Culture Course Credit: 1
(FILM)
THE BIBLE AND POPULAR CULTURE This course places biblical texts into dialogue with various expressions of contemporary popular culture (film, television, art, music, advertising, and the media) in an effort to understand the complex relationship between the two. The course takes up this dialogue against the wider background of the study of religion and popular culture and by exploring the nature of self and transcendence, morality and the spiritual quest as those are construed and configured within popular culture. [R]
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