Bulletin Number Two 1982

Descartes thought the 'mind' could not be objectively studied. However, contemporary psychologists, by employing the 'reaction time' method, have succeeded in studying objectively and precisely the operational process of the ‘mind' . some common basic areas are covered in most introductory textbooks on Psychology. These areas are included in our major curriculum. Q. How is the Psychology programme of the University structured? A. About eleven years ago the Sociology Department started to offer Psychology as a minor programme, which was a rather comprehensive one, with eight degree papers for students to choose from. The fact that a number of our minor students did well when they were admitted by very competitive overseas universities to graduate programmes in Psychology gave us confidence that our training was quite sound. The present major programme is designed to equip a student with the basic skills and knowledge. Besides the lectures and books, we have also emphasized the use o f laboratories. The curriculum has resulted from a reorganization in the light of our past experience an d the requirements of professional psychological associations, as well as undergraduate Psychology programmes of major universities in America and the United Kingdom. A t the moment, we offer seven degree papers. This does not mean that we are offering fewer courses. The scope of the courses is basically the same as before. Some courses like General Psychology, Introduction to Statistics, Experimental Methods and Designs have now become core courses, which are required of major students but do not necessarily lead to degree papers: they constitute basic background knowledge for a major student. The seven degree papers, which aim at introducing to major students the different areas of Psychology, group courses together topically. The main groups are: Basic Processes (e.g. Basic Learning Processes, Human Learning and Memory, Psychology of Language, Sensation and Perception, Motivation and Emotion, Physiological Psychology), Developmental Processes (e.g. Developmental Psychology, Educational Psychology), Social Behaviour (e.g. Social Psychology, Industrial Psychology), Personality (e.g. Cross-cultural Psychology, Personality), and Mental Health and Disorder (e.g. Abnormal Psychology, Counselling and Guidance, Community Psychology). Q. Is there any emphasis in the Psychology major programme? A. Ours is a balanced programme. We think that basic general training should be given to undergraduates. What we are offering is the basic introduction to Psychology, methods of approach and investigation so that students can grasp the basic skill s and knowledge, and can apply them to academic research, practical work and daily life. Q. If students are trained to do experiments ， are equipment and facilities adequate in the University? A. As Psychology is listed under the Social Science Faculty, it is generally mistaken for a paper-and- pencil discipline which has no use for experimental laboratories. At the present stage, we need to expand both in terms of space and equipment. Technology in Psychology is advancing rapidly these days; i f we are to provide quality training to our students, we have to develop adequate facilities. RECENT DEVELOPMENTS 9