I was motivated to try this type of course when I had a student, who was very quiet in class, but then would email me the most wonderful comments about what had gone on that day. It made me feel that perhaps it was time for me to explore other methods of instruction. I think of what I would have missed if we had not been able to communicate in this way.

Many of you aren't taking this course over the internet because you're shy- perhaps you have schedule conflicts or other obligations, perhaps you just like playing with your computer like I do - for whatever reason - glad to have you - just be sure that you bring a sense of humor and some patience. Like all things - there are always some bugs to straighten out.

I thought that I would share with you my view of "teaching" this course and every course that I teach. I feel very strongly that my role is one of facilitator. I try to create a learning environment. I guide you to information, and help you interact with it. Then give you credit for your struggle. In all Introductory Psychology courses, the student really teaches themselves to a large extent. The text book is the main resource and the teacher acts to keep you motivated. I welcome your questions on content.

I love the study of psychology. If I did not believe that it would add to your life in a significant way, I would not commit my energy or yours to this labor of love called learning.

Course/Catalog Description of Course: Examines human and animal behavior, relating experimental studies to practical problems. Includes topics such as sensation/perception, learning, memory, motivation, emotion, stress, development, intelligence, personality, psychopathology, therapy, and social psychology. Lecture 3 hours per week

Instructor's Voice: In addition to the course description above, these are goals that I have for you. They are reflected in many of the learning activities and assignments.

These goals include:

• an ability to articulate and understand basic psychological theories
• begin to view the world through the "eyes of a psychologist", to examine behavior more objectively using the principles and knowledge of the discipline
• basic mastery of research skills through conducting two types of research projects: correlational research and survey research
• learning to bring academic resources to bear on life or research by knowing how to use print and electronic sources
• awaken a sense of curiosity about your own behavior and the behavior of others, including cross cultural perspectives
• develop or improve own learning skills, develop an awareness of your own personal learning style to encourage life long learning

ABOUT EMAIL-The College Administration has asked me to include thismessage to students and to adhere to this policy.

Students, faculty and staff of Germanna Community College must use GCC email for all official college communications. This includes course-related communications between students and faculty. If you need help accessing your student email account, please visit the Academic Computing Center on either campus.

Americans With Disabilities Act: The College supports the American's with Disabilities Act. If you feel that you have a disability that is interfering with your learning and the demonstration of that knowledge, please contact the campus "ADA" Counselor. I fully support this policy and will work with you to create the most positive learning environment for you. Please contact me if you would like to discuss any issue.

Honesty: Submitting work that is not your own cannot be tolerated. It robs you of an education and robs the person you take from. The Student Handbook outlines the consequences for academic dishonesty.