VIDEOGAME/TECHNOLOGY SURVEY

In Psy 101, we have been talking about different methods utilized by Psychologists for collecting data. In addition, as part of the first writing assignment, students had to write an essay on their opinion about whether or not videogames/technology has a positive/negative impact on society. As part of this process, I summarized the data from these assignments and came out with the following results:

TOTAL for POSITIVE IMPACT: 13

TOTAL for NEGATIVE IMPACT: 19

TOTAL for CAN BE BOTH POSITIVE AND NEGATIVE: 7

It serves as a good example of how survey methods can be utilized to collect data on complex questions as part of the research process.

An example of Industrial/organizational Psychology

In Psychology 101, we discussed the various subdivisions of Psychology. One of these was Industrial/Organizational Psychology.

Industrial-organizational psychologists use psychological principles and research methods to solve problems in the workplace and improve the quality of life. They study workplace productivity and management and employee working styles. They get a feel for the morale and personality of a company or organization. And they collaborate with management to help plan policies, carry out screenings and training sessions, and develop a plan for the future.
On the job, industrial-organizational psychologists:

• Apply psychological research to the workplace
• Work within human resources offices
• Help businesses hire more qualified employees
• Help train and motivate workforce
• Assess job performance
• Increase business efficiency
• Improve organizational structure
• Improve quality of life for employers and employees
• Ease transitions such as corporate mergers
• Study consumer behavior
• Work as a consultant

An example of such work is to assist businesses in understanding consumer behavior. The following link provides some insight into how understanding of behavioral principles is applied by casinos to maximize profits...


http://www.msn.com/en-us/lifestyle/smart-living/secrets-casinos-don%e2%80%99t-want-you-to-know/ss-BBAjMHJ?li=BBnbfcL

NATURAL DISASTERS AND MENTAL HEALTH

As areas of our country begin the process of re-building from the two most recent hurricanes, it is an opportune time to reflect on what we have learned about how these events impact their survivors emotionally and psychologically. A natural reaction to going through a trauma is such feelings as anxiety and depression, so it is important to note that the presence of these emotions does not mean that the person is experiencing a psychological disorder. There are a multitude of factors which can influence whether or not these normal reactions evolve into a condition which may need the focus of clinical attention by a professional. The following link provides an excellent summary of some of the research available on this issue:

https://www.ptsd.va.gov/professional/pages/effects-disasters-mental-health.asp

PSYCHOLOGY MAJOR?

Many SCCC students are still in the process of trying to decide their major. Over the next week, in many of our classes, we will be touching on the individuals whom work in the field of Psychology, for example, a Clinical psychologist or Neuroscientist. Students often have questions about majoring in the area of Psychology. The following link is a an excellent resource for a number of different topics. if you are interested in learning more about being a Psych major, listen to the Psychology Major, Fact Or Fiction one.

http://www.cengage.com/learn/neurotransmission?channel=Eloqua&elq_mid=20456&elq_cid=4173020&utm_medium=email&utm_source=eloqua&utm_campaign=FA17_1_PsychNeuroDomjan_HED_361934

KEYS TO A GOOD SEMESTER

As the semester begins, it is good to review some of the basics of being a good student and getting the most out of your educational experiences. The following article is an excellent guideline for making the best of the current semester:

http://www.lifehack.org/articles/featured/advice-for-students-11-ways-to-make-this-your-best-semester-yet.html

WRITING CENTER

In each class, there is a paper due. Many people feel they would benefit from support in completing this very important assignment. SCCC has a writing center which can provide this much needed assistance. This semester, the Writing Center has new hours:

NEW Writing Center hours for Fall 2017:

Monday-Thursday 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM

Now closed Fridays

For more information regarding the center, feel free to visit the website:

http://libguides.sunysuffolk.edu/ammerman_writing_center

WELCOME STUDENTS OF THE FALL 2017 SEMESTER

I am hoping we have a stimulating and enjoyable semester as you experience the world of Psychology. My goal is to offer students who are willing to work hard an opportunity to be immersed in the world of Psychology, explore topics of interest in more detail, and earn a good grade in the course.  On that note, I would like to share a few ideas of things to focus on to both enhance your course experience and give yourself a chance to obtain the best grade possible:


Homework: It will be important to consistently complete your standing homework assignments. If you do, they will provide you valuable context and reinforcement of class lectures. Your standing homework assignments are:

 1. Keep up with the reading: It is a general assumption you will be doing a reading to accompany the class lectures. This will help enhance your understanding of the material and give you a deeper knowledge of the subject matter


 2. Watch the assignment videos: The videos associated with the lectures were designed to provide you more details about different topics as well as reinforce material covered in class. Watching them is an excellent way to enhance your understanding and assist with the process of committing the material to memory for test preparation.

3. Assignment Due Dates: Make sure you are aware of the due dates and requirements for all writing assignments and follow them!!!

 4. Stay in touch: Many issues can be resolved earlier in the semester and can make the rest of the semester go much smoother. Make sure you are familiar enough with course expectations to ask the questions early in the semester. Feel free to ask during class time so everyone can get the benefit of the information

5.Check the blog on a regular basis for updates on the class, additional reading assignments, and extra credit opportunities.  

6. Class Participation: Please feel free to share thoughts, ideas, and questions during class. I find class discussion an integral part  of a stimulating learning experience and hope you will be an active participant in the class. 


If you find any websites or resources that are helpful to you in the course please share them with me as my website is a dynamic site and I am always looking for resources that will be useful to students

       YOUR FIRST HOMEWORK ASSIGNMENT is to familiarize yourself with the website which will be an invaluable resource throughout the semester!