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Psychology

New courses & special topics

New courses

PSYC 574A/492: Event-related Potentials (ERPs) in Cognitive Neuroscience - Dr. Jim Tanaka

Summer 2025

This class will be a theoretical and technical introduction to event-related potential research. As a research-based course, we will explore the neural correlates of reinforcement learning and object categorization.

In the first week, students will read selected chapters from Steve Luck's "Introduction to the Event-Related Technique." Next, students will be trained in the Brain and Cognition EEG Lab, where they will learn basic methods for acquiring electrophysiological data. In the lab, students will become familiar with the software routines used to filter and analyze EEG brain waves.

The class is open to both graduate and undergraduate students. It is limited to 12 students. Enrolment is by instructor permission. Please contact Jim Tanaka if interested.

: Psychology of Transformative Climate Action* - Sam Lloyd

Spring 2026 – Tuesday 2:30-5:20 p.m.

This course introduces students to the psychology of systemic, collective, and individual-level climate action. It will provide students with the tools to: integrate psychological perspectives into climate action strategies, collaborate effectively with interdisciplinary solution-seekers, critically assess existing psychological strategies, and adopt a hopeful vision of climate action.

*Counts as upper-level Psychology elective

Special topics

PSYC 493 A01: Flourishing Youth in Society - Dr. Frederick Grouzet

Fall 2025

In this course, students will engage with a youth-serving organization, a school, and/or a local community to address questions and implement/evaluate programs that promote the well-being of youth from diverse social, economic, and cultural backgrounds, across developmental transitions, and in evolving societal circumstances. Students will also learn about theories and methods related to community engage research, knowledge mobilization, and program evaluation. Pre-reqs: 4th year standing; PSYC300A; One of PSYC332, PSYC336, PSYC345A, PSYC366, PSYC375, PSYC385, PSYC386, PSYC387.

PSYC 493 A02: Different minds/different brains: Neurodiversity in the classroom - Dr. Jim Tanaka

Fall 2025

In this seminar, we will review and discuss research examining about how children think about their own mind and brain and explore thinking from the neurodiverse perspectives and Indigenous ways of knowing. We will develop hands-on activities in cognitive neuroscience that are intended to spark a child’s curiosity and imagination about the brain sciences. As a culminating event, we will pilot-test the exercises at a local middle school with Grade 6 and 7 students; Pre-reqs: PSYC300A and PSYC 251

PSYC 491 A01: Psychology for Instruction - Dr. Allyson Hadwin

Spring 2026

Psychological science has much to contribute to enhancing teaching and learning across a range of educational contexts. Drawing on contemporary research, this course will explore evidenced-based principles from psychology that inform the design of effective and responsive learning environments. The course will be of interest to students who are interested in (a) applying psychological science to instructional design or assessment, (b) developing instructional tools and interventions, (c ) pursuing careers related to education or instructional design, or (d) contributing to research in the psychology of education. This is a good course for future teaching assistants.

PSYC 491 A02: Advanced Personality - Dr. Kelci Harris

Spring 2026

Pre-reqs: PSYC300A and PSYC330

PSYC 493 A01: Psychology of Immigration - Dr. Nigel Mantou Lou

Spring 2026

This course explores the diverse experiences of migrants through psychological theory and research, with an emphasis on social, cultural, developmental, and educational perspectives. Through community-engaged learning, students will critically analyze and reflect on the challenges and strengths of migrant communities, bridging academic research with real-world experience. Pre-reqs: PSYC300A and PSYC 386.

PSYC 493 A02: Reducing Stereotyping, Prejudice, and Discrimination - Dr. Maria Iankilevitch

Spring 2026

In-depth examination of theoretical, empirical, and applied approaches to reducing stereotyping, prejudice, and discrimination from a social psychological perspective. Considers bottom-up and top-down approaches to improving intergroup relations. This course has a significant community engagement component. Pre-reqs: PSYC300A and PSYC387
 

PSYC 491 A02: Neuropsychology, Neuroimaging and Aging - Dr. Jodie Gawryluk

Spring 2024 – Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

Come learn about the cognitive neuroscience of aging! In this course you will learn about ways to measure changes in brain structure and function during healthy aging and in age-related brain disorders. At the end of the course, you will have a better understanding of magnetic resonance imaging and conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease.

PSYC 491 A01: Advanced Special Topics in Psychology - Dr. Ronald Porter

Summer 2024 - Monday through Friday 2:30-4:20 p.m.

This course provides students with an understanding of the social psychological factors inherent in sports and exercise health. We’ll focus on participants, group processes, enhancing performance and improving health and well-being.