The nature and aims of the introductory course in psychology

This is the first of a series of studies of the introductory course in psychology which is being conducted by a joint committee of the Midwestern Psychological Association and the Southern Society of Philosophy and Psychology. Major problems which are being studied are: aims, content, methods of instruction. In the present study it has been found that about half of the introductory courses are three semester hours in length. There is no laboratory work in these courses except for demonstrations. Larger institutions emphasize scientific method and knowledge for its own sake, while smaller institutions emphasize applications and personal service in psychology. Small eastern institutions are similar to the large institutions except for a slightly greater emphasis on applications. Southern institutions, both large and small, emphasize personal service and applications.