Fall 2004

PSY 341K • Sex Differences in Cognition/Perception-W

Course Description

The primary intent of this course is to study what is known about the sex differences that exist in various cognitive and perceptual characteristics, skills, and abilities. The emphasis will be on biologically or physiologically based sex differences rather than on those sex (gender) differences in lifestyle, employment, fashion, etc., that are under the strong influence of the society in which a person lives. Of greatest interest will be sex differences that exist or emerge early in life. Initially, the course will be primarily lectures and discussions led by the instructor. As the semester proceeds, we will gradually shift to classroom discussions of preselected articles that are led by groups of students or by individual students.

Grading Policy

Because this is a writing-component course, there will be several written assignments, ranging from short summaries of research articles to longer papers, as well as an exam. The final grade will be based on the exam, written assignments, and class participation.

Texts

Halpern, D.F., Sex Differences in Cognitive Abilities Several research articles and background material in other texts.

back