Ayn's Multiple World

All Day Saturday to learn our Major goal is to one day again go back to school

Good morning ... this is me. It's about 8 am and I think I've been up for a couple of hours. The biggest thing was to get out some pictures that we took last night. We were out with the boys and had the greatest time.

We'll have to settle down a bit before we can concentrate on anything in particular. We've been a little scattered between watching the news and getting caught up with the pictures. Ok, we've just said that. Yes, we remembered to take our medicine. Just feeling a bit scattered. Maybe we better focus on one thing at a time and see how that goes.

Ok, the first thing is that we got on the scale this morning and we're back to the 250 mark. That's a good thing. Today we are going to make it a goal to get back to the gym. We had a very bad week with all that this week. It's just that are schedules were a little messed up with Rich being in and out at odd times. We wanted to make the best of that time together. I do have to admit, with him being gone so much that we really made advantage of time together ... Man is our guy hot! Ok, you enough of that. I guess that though tells us where our mind is at. Ok, girl settle down.

We dropped Rich off at the airport yesterday and he got to New Mexico without any apparent problem. I woke up this morning to find an email in my box from him. He says that he's missing some soft caresses. WooHOO ... did I tell you he makes my blood boil. He also said though he sat next to two women who talked continuosly on the flight. I felt bad for that. But, he got there and had dinner with his aunt and uncle who are also visiting his daughter this weekend. He says the weather isn't looking good, but they hope to get in to see some of the balloons that are going on there this weekend. There was news a couple times of that event, because a couple of people have died due to unfortunate mishaps. I'm afraid they are going to get the effects of the next hurricane by about Sunday. More of that to come ... we're looking at Hurricane Norbert. Right now it's category 2. I hope things are going to be ok. We might have to worry about him catching a plane too when conditions are too bad.

Ahh ... some fresh coffee. We were a little late in starting, so we're only on our second cup. That's the stuff that Saturday mornings were made for!

Ok, what's next. As to our day yesterday at work ... we got there in time and talked to the client who was having a staffing and he seems to be doing well. We walked through together a game for one of his goals ... It was on NFL Football. Everything went together fine as to getting his staffing ready ... and the mother was very enjoyable to talk to. Unfortunately, the person from CSO wasn't there. I'm not sure what happened to her. It might have had something to do with switching over from the supervisor to the new person they have to take the place of that case manager. We left a message with her before we left ... We'll have to follow through on Tuesday when we return to work.

We left at 11:30-12:00 pm yesterday to go home so we could meet Rich ... I might have said something about that already. There was nothing problematic though it was still hard to see him go. We get in these situations and we find we cannot smooch him enough. We didn't get all sad because we had to be strong to do the driving ok, but it's still a loss when he goes. I know though that he will enjoy seeing his daughter very much. Most likely he'll feel as good as us seeing Thom and his brothers and their families last night. Man-o-man kids are such a blessing. I couldn't be more proud of the boys. Just love them terribly!

I think that we need to concentrate a little bit on today. I think we have to get back to using the To-do list. One of the first things we'll have to figure out is what is happening to the gym. Supposedly today the swimming pool opens back up after being closed for two weeks. That really put a crimp in our style. Today I think we're going to make it a gym work out though instead of a swimming one. I'm thinking there are going to be a lot of people there who have also been missing the swimming pool. I figure that if we go to the gym part first ... we'll be able to peek in and see if there's going to be a crowding problem. We'll also have to see if the gym is going to be open on Monday - Columbus Day. We're hoping it will be, but need to check that out.

Hmm, maybe I should do that now ... make a couple to-do things and add to the iPod. Hold on let me get it ... should be charging the battery as well.

Ok, that is done. When I thought it through, there is not much I want to get done today, other than the blog, gym, eat, clean up a bit and maybe check out the AOL Journals. There is not nearly enough time to get them all written over. I sure sure hope as hell believe that AOL is going to copy over the journals to somewhere.

Hmm they say there will be more information coming soon, but that there will be a choice for us to save the material - though they don't say how to do that, but that they are going to transfer the journals over. Oh Lordy I sure hope that works out. We'll be sure to continue watching for those developments.

I've got 10 blogs ... some of which were barely started, but there are others that have quite a bit of information like my regular blog and the one on Master's Work, or the first year anniversary. I'd really really be disgusted to lose that information. Just gotta pay attention right? Ok, let's not obsess there ... we gotta trust AOL knows what they are doing. Part of that worry is that they are also closing down the FTP service and that's where all my pictures were located. I hope, like hell that they are going to be responsible for our material.

Ok, shh ... let's move on, ok? We gotta get a grip on how much anxiety that is bringing. It took us the better part of a day though to save 3 months, and there are like 29 months to save. There's no way even if I worked diligently that I'd get all that information moved over ... Not with all the pictures especially. Ok, breathe girl ... it's going to be ok.

Beside then the items mentioned ... we really do have some good free time. We need to think through this as time that we can be using to relax. I feel the highlight of the time ahead is going to be getting to the gym. If I were really on top of things, I would be able to do the gym AND zoo, but I'm pretty sure that's extending ourselves too much. I want to get everything done, but I know that our body hurts and our minds get worn down as to prepping ourselves to be going out. As of this time, we have marked down that we are going to the gym at about 12:30. Lunch will be about then and there's nothing else between now and noon except blogging and getting the house picked up. We can do this, right? Hmm, better record some time too for getting into the shower. Maybe I'll do that soon so we can get dressed and open up the curtains. It's been kinda dark in here for the last couple of days.

Hmm, Looks like we got matching kitties. One is on the end of this couch and the other is matching on the end of the opposite couch. I think they might like some sunlight too. They are like that.

It's almost 9 am now ... I think we're going to do the shower now ... no sense in putting that off, right? BRB

Ok, good good ... showered, dressed and the curtains open. It's a lot more cheerful in her right now. Next step will be to fill up my coffee again and be picking up the living room. I think also we need to unload the clean dishes in the dishwasher and put in a few dirty ones. I'm going to need doing something with the mail as well that's scattered over my desk. Beside that real time left to just write our hearts out for the next few hours. So far, we're feeling good.

There is one problem I noticed in that our right knee is feeling kinda bad. We're hoping that it just needs straightening and stretching out. We'd then be able to take care of that this afternoon. I think if nothing else time in the swimming pool tomorrow will really help out.

There's another problem that we've got to deal with ... our smoochyface left us without fudgicles ... to be sure ... he said there was plenty of fudgicles on Monday ... but that was way long ago. I spent the extra cash I had last night so I won't be able to go to the store today. It's really a problem, but we've got to deal with it. We made a choice to pay last night instead of getting fudgcicles. I have to admit the boys are a priority even over those. Ok, you ... get over it, k? What will we do instead. Maybe get back into the jello that's still there? That might be a good idea, because we already did the deal with the pudding and we've eaten all our favorite stuff with vanilla and caramel. *Sigh* There's so much to being me.

I don't really want to talk much of work. Sister sent me emails though reminding me frostily that we've got to confirm a speaker for the parent's meeting and the first aid for the staff. I will take care of that on Tuesday ... just gotta not worry over much about that ... just have to remember without becoming obsessed about it. We could email the speaker now, but we don't want to deal with anything workwise on our days off. So we're letting that go now.

As to eating the most of the weekend. There are some leftovers, but I think most of them are too old if they are still here. I think they might get thrown out our ignored. I'd like to clear the fridge to represent what really can be eaten, but we're short of garbage bags. Hmm, maybe that means we just have to use the big white ones. I suppose then that isn't a real crisis. We're going to want to empty the litter box even without Rich helping. It should be done frequently even if he's not here. I can do this right? At least I used to be able to do it. Think strong girl!

I'm looking now again at the picture with me and Joe. I sure have the most loving kids. I figure I still got squinty eyes, but Joe is so wonderful I still might like to frame that picture. That's going to be something I ask Rich to help me with when he comes back. I'd like to go to Target and get frames for some pictures Maury and Thom have given me. I'd also like to hang some pictures of Rich. He did put one picture up, but there are more to go. *Sigh* One thing at a time, right?

I don't know what other people are doing over this long break. I'm not sure if Thom is staying until Sunday or Monday either. I don't even know if we'll see him again before he leaves. I know that yesterday he was going to try getting in a shopping trip to Target to pick up a few things. I wish I could have given him some money for it, but there just wasn't any to give. Gotta let that go. First priority at this point is to have enough money to pay the rent. We got our renewal contract in the mail yesterday at work and we signed it, but need to remember to put it in the mail today.

I told Rich about it yesterday and he said to go ahead and put it in for another year. Then he said something about a nice place just around the corner. I have to assume its a nice one story, but he said something about it having 3 garages. I can think about it a smidge, but I know there's a lot to go from one point to another. Rich is so slow on moving toward these kinds of decisions. We also have to recognize the loan situation in the country and that he's not through with his divorce. The sad part about it is to think that if he does this deal we'll really have to give up our dream house. This is reasonable for the time in that we both work in the city and Elgin is another 45 minutes west, but it's so sad I don't want to think much about it. I think it would be better to have a house, but it might be too small too really appreciate.

There are also concerns in that Rich really thinks JVS is holding on to him just to get some workshops closed up, and after that they will close the shops and let him go. He has another company or two that he'd considered or believes have openings and then he would just contract services with JVS until they close all the workshops, but I don't know what differences financially it will mean for him and what the healthcare cost is going to be ... I know that he gets insurance through JVS now. We'll have to see. We're really too frazzled out financially to think too much into getting into a house. Especially, after the financial markets of this past 3-4 weeks. As much as I want inwardly to think of having our own place ... Just can't do it in our heart of hearts.

Hmm, that was a hard trip. I went into the kitchen to get some coffee, and I got real faint and dizzy. I'm not sure what that was for. I held onto the counter until I could get my sight back. After that I tried a jello. It was ok, but nothing special. We'll have to reformat that in our mind.

I think it's funny how I can think of jello in one mind as another mind is listening to the economy, the war and the Presidential race.

I've got a lot of knowledge in my head, but it's just an ongoing trickle as represented by CNN. Many of the stories I'm listening to are repeats from previous stories. News doesn't change all the time as fast as we would like, but maybe with all the economic news this week it's a good idea. This was supposed to be the worst financial week according to percent lost or amount lost on the Dow in the entire history of this situation. We're supposed to be down about 21% from where we were a year ago when we hit the all time high around 14,000 points.

A lot of the stories now are on the deal we mentioned yesterday about McCains reinterpretation of the anger his crowds were doing. He still has lousy commercials, but at least he's calmed the crowds. Palin is speaking right now and I suppose we should be listening to it. I just hate her whiney voice and I'm not too much fonder for McCains. He makes everything seem like he's telling a story tale.

This morning we heard a doctor talk about the pouch on his left cheek. I guess it has to do with scar tissue and the healing of his skin cancer. They showed a picture of the scar after his surgery to remove the cancer. I hadn't realized he'd gone through all that. There is some talk about the differences in our knowledge of one candidate over the other. I guess McCain has given 1100 pages of information and Obama has given one page. It's a difference between the two ... I would really hope that Obama is just looking at privacy issues rather than the thought he's covering for something. McCain isn't saying too much about it rather than the complaint that it's unfair, but I'm thinking no one asked for that many pages. Apparently, he let reporters look at the material for 3 hours. So, I'm not sure the value of that either. It might just have clouded the images.

Ok, I've got that on the background. Apparently, she's given some kind of denial in that ... she's gotten pinned for unethical behavior in the firing of her sister's ex-husand. Maybe I missed the whole thing because she's shaking hands now. It's more important to wait and see what's happening with the G7 meeting that's going on this morning. They came together last night and the most profound thing was to say that they are going to work together so as not to hurt each other in their problem solving.

They have already taken North Korea off the black list, but will put them back on if it doesn't meet new criteria in denuclearizing. Another big deal thing yesterday as to the financial news is that the government is thinking of taking some of the 700 billion dollars it gets to be buying up stock in some of the banks that are in financial trouble. Along with that is the power to control the lead spots from taking advantage of money into those banks. We'll probably hear more of that today. I know that someone will probably catch up the country after they've met for a while. Paulson has been giving a lot of small speeches in that direction. And, they've said that Bush has given like 22 speaches on the economy since its last bad stages. I know that he's trying to boost the world's confidence, but he's got like a 26% favorability rating. So, nobody is thinking he's really doing so much.

We stopped listening to Palin on the computer because her thing was really over in PA. I'm back to just listening to their regular news service and the the CNN on the TV too. It's really pretty cool that they have separate broadcasts and I know they have another one for the radio. I know that I should try to listen to something else. Just feel like I'm losing time when not listening to it.

I think I'm going to do a little picking up for a moment. Seems we're in the middle of things .. it's almost 10 am.

There ... that looks a little better. I don't like how messy things seem with sheets on the couches, but in general at least things are picked up.

Now they are having people talking from the State department ... back to North Korea. Hmm, it looks like the President is going to make an address now.

Or, was that an earlier talk. Hmm, maybe so. Today there is going to be a meeting with G20. Bush is emphasizing that we are in the world conflicts together and that we are going to come through it together. I think that it is a big problem for the world that the US financial problems caused so many problems around all world markets. North Korea is agreeing to open up it's space to checking by the other nations. They are saying that United States got all of what it wanted ...They are showing some of their nuclear equipment. It looks very old and grundgy. I'm thinking this is a good deal. It should better globalize North Korea with the rest of the world. This is partly Bush finally backing down ... he's taken them off the terror list. I think that sometimes he can be very insulting.

Now all we need is for Iran to take a breathe.

Ok, let's move on to other things. We've got a couple of hours. We keep aluding to somewhere in our mind are deeper subjects about things that we really need to talk about and figure out. I don't know what's in there ... but the aching to get at it is deep.

I'd like to think that it's not just matters of the inner parts and what they are talking to Dr. Marvin about. It would probably be a good deal if we could talk about some of that, but I don't really know where it would go. I'm too embarassed of the secrets that I don't even want to mention them here where things are less private. I'm wondering here is there some small bit we can give toward working through those issues. You know the hassle we put Dr. Marvin through in hiding information. Hmm, thinking now it's probably safer to keep that hidden? I'm worried about losing out time to more worrisome things than we can handle on our own. There was some safety in leaving the secret hidden in Dr. Marvin's office. I know that any time we're there and going through it there is a sense of depression and doom. We really don't want to think of that at the same time we're going to be going out in a couple of hours.

Ok, how bout if we leave just a marker ... the think is ... it has something to do with not being fully dressed. That's our marker. But, it's something that is affecting us in present tense and not just a bad memory ... though when we try to think through the issue it becomes connected to bad memories. I really think though we need to save all that for Dr. Marvin.

Ok, so with that said ... that's as far as we are taking it for now. Shhh, now be quiet, please?

In other big news? Ford is thinking of dumping Mazda and GM is thinking of merging with Chrystler. Stuff like that happens. I don't know what to think as to buying foreign. It's just that if Honda builds better cars then that's the one I'm going to want.

Mmm, just ate some chow mein noodles. I guess that's our mid-day snack. Let that go. Other than the Jello ... we'd only had an English muffin with peanut butter. Hmm that's a thought ... anything with our diet of late? Oh yeah you heard about the loss of fudgcicles until Rich gets back. You can see how much that is pressuring our brain. *Sigh*

Ok, nothing else much about that ... it's like the gym at a standstill ... just gotta do the regular stuff and then we'll be ok. I suppose I could call my mother or sister, but I'm really not confident about that. I'm not sure I'm up for the medical parts. Maybe if we compromised and talked to my sister without talking to our mother. We've sent back and forth a couple of emails to her, so she's really got our general information and we've got hers. BUT, I think CS is having trouble I'd really like to catch up on that. I think though she doesn't really wake up until about 11. So that gives us another half hour. Ok, that's workable. Gets us prepared.

We're really avoiding talking about hard stuff aren't we? Let's think ... what's the hardest thoughts we have other than keeping up with world and US business. We're still listening to that in the background and it's news people getting a briefing from the state department. I don't really want to know all the details there. I think the part that I wanted to know is that the situation is getting better.

We wrote yesterday a short note in the MarineParents message group. It was short and just saying that we were meeting Thom. I miss the people there when we go back to visit, but we felt turned away from MarineParents in general. Everytime we go back we're facing that ... that they didn't want me as a volunteer. I don't know if its more subtle than that, but they didn't contact us back after asking clarification for having been considered for a certain part. I really like contacting the people that we have gone through bootcamp with, but then one of the mothers got a volunteer position where we didn't, so that just feels like adding insult to injury. It's not her fault or problem and in fact I don't think she knows anything about it, but it's all taken an affect.

I think too because all our sons are doing separate things its not quite the same as before. Plus, we have never let go of how few showed up for the joint meeting. It seemed that many that weren't there didn't come back after the graduation. There's just a small group of people holding it all together. They include me and I'm very happy for that, just feel separate - even from Lynn and Betsy - two I was real close too at least in heart. The one I'm still in contact with is Vickie. I think what worked in that situation was that the contacts didn't include a lot of information so it wasn't as difficult to keep up the contact. Each of these woman have been invited to be reading the blog. I'm not sure if anyone does, but it would be an honor to think even that they'd consider it.

Ahh. That was tough. I did a bunch of stuff, but we are feeling our back as hurtful. We cleaned up the dishwasher, the kitchen, emptied the garbage and took care of the litter box. Good girl! This will make our place at least liveable. whoops forgot my reward ... there's a fortune cookie waiting for me. BRB

Hehehe ... my fortune says that my present plans are going to succeed wooHOO!!!

We also got ourselves our last cup of coffee. I think I drink a little more when Rich isn't around. *Sigh* It will be ok, right?

The only other thing I might do is vacuum the carpet, but we won't put our back out like that before we get to the gym.

Hmm, they are going over Saturday Night Live again ... they have really been advertising the SNL performances imitating the politicians. Right now CNN is using old material ... you would think I could turn the channel, but not quite yet. Well, maybe for a moment ... we'll check out the military channel. Nope anatomy of a FA-18. We don't really want that ... I do much better when they produce show on the Marines.

Hmm, we went through all the channels without finding anything, but then turned on On Demand ... We're going to try looking at Dead Man don't wear Plaid Steve Martin. A nice comedy would be a good deal. It's a movie I heard of but didn't ever watch. Nice that we got only up to the D's ... maybe there's some other movies too. We need to return our Netflix movies that didn't happen and as long as my computer is down ... we're not getting the Netflix through the little machine. *Sigh* We're dealing though, right?

Hmm, we watched that for a bit. We'll probably continue it tonight, but it's too early in the day to settle down to a movie. We're back to CNN and typing. We'll go to the gym in an hour now.

Ok, so let's look things over ... if our life with Rich is good ... and the boys is good ... and if work and psychiatry is on hold. Then what is it that we need to think of.

There was something when doing the work on the AOL Journals about trying to figure out the summary of where we are at in life. You know basically, where did we come from. I know that you've been hearing about us all along, but there is not real set pattern of putting it all together collectively. We might be back to the question is there anything about us interesting enough to share with others. We're now going into our 6th year and I'm not really sure how far we've progressed. We're still behind on the same annual reports, Qnotes and CARF. In this respect nothing has changed.

We are probably less likely to kill ourselves or at least with it were to happen and we're now living with Rich instead of hoping he'll stop over. The boys have done some maturing, but I don't think in many other respects we've done that much changing. We're still kind of stumbling along. There was that part where we were going to school, and then after that we stopped. I'm not sure how much we included lately in the part of us thinking of school again. It looks like we've taken our papers out so not sure. Hmm, what school were we thinking of?

Hmm, this is going to take up the last of our morning. Best finish here and then get to the gym, right?

Ahh Walden University

Curriculum The courses are delivered in a prescribed sequence. Each quarter includes two concurrent 12-week courses.

Course Code Course Title Credits
Quarter 1
PSYC 6001 Foundations for Graduate Study in Psychology 1
PSYC 6211 Contemporary Issues in Psychology 5
Quarter 2
PSYC 6205 History and Systems of Psychology 5
PSYC 6305 Statistics 1 5
Quarter 3
PSYC 6240 Human Motivation 5
PSYC 6310 Research Design 5
Quarter 4
PSYC 6235 Cognitive Psychology 5
PSYC 6315 Tests and Measurement 5
Quarter 5
PSYC 6245 Social Psychology 5
PSYC 6701 Culture and Psychology 5
Quarter 6
PSYC xxxx Elective 5
PSYC 6393 M.S. Psychology Capstone 5

Thesis Option

This program does not require a thesis. However, upon consultation with an advisor, you may choose to take two 6-credit-hour thesis courses (PSYC 6390 Thesis) instead of PSYC 6393 M.S. Psychology Capstone. The thesis option extends the program by at least one quarter.


PSYC 6001 Foundations for Graduate Study in Psychology (1 cr.)

This course introduces students to Walden University and to the requirements for successful participation in an online curriculum. It provides a foundation for academic and professional success as a scholar-practitioner and social change agent. Topics include the relation of mission and vision to professional goals; development of the program of study and professional development plan; strategies for online success; introduction to the online library; and introduction to critical thinking, professional writing, and academic integrity. Course assignments focus on practical application of writing and critical-thinking skills and promote professional and academic excellence.

PSYC 6211 Contemporary Issues in Psychology (5 cr.)

This course is an advanced-level overview of the core areas, topics, and concepts in psychology through a consideration of related contemporary issues. Major topics include biological bases of behavior, learning and memory, cognition, motivation, lifespan development, theories of personality, stress and coping, psychological disorders, and social psychology. Students learn and practice critical-reading and analysis skills through reviews of journal articles and media publications. Specific focus is on distinguishing opinions from facts, identifying bias in writing, and understanding the importance of data and evidence. Students use these skills in the analysis and composition of scientific writing. Themes of diversity are highlighted throughout the course.

PSYC 6205 History and Systems of Psychology (5 cr.)

This course focuses on the historical and philosophical roots of psychology. Topics include structuralism, functionalism, behaviorism, psychoanalysis, gestalt, and existentialism, as well as contemporary perspectives, including evolutionary psychology, positive psychology, postmodernism, and feminist psychology. Themes of diversity and multiculturalism in psychology and counseling are highlighted within each of the perspectives.

PSYC 6305 Statistics 1 (5 cr.)

This course provides students with a thorough analysis of basic descriptive and inferential statistical methods commonly used in the social sciences and the skills with which to write, analyze, and critique social science research. Methods include computation and analysis of frequency distributions, measures of central tendency, and statistical hypothesis testing. Statistical tests (and underlying assumptions) include z-score, single-sample, independent-samples and related-samples t-tests, analysis of variance, correlation, regression, and chi-square tests. This course includes an introduction to and use of the software Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS).

PSYC 6240 Human Motivation (5 cr.)

This course provides an overview of physiological, psychological, and social aspects in the study of motivation and includes an exploration of historical and contemporary theories and perspectives. The course emphasizes both conceptual understanding of theories associated with motivation and their applications to personal, professional, and social issues. Major topics include physiological, learned, cognitive, and emotional aspects of motivation. Themes of diversity are threaded throughout the course.

PSYC 6310 Research Design (5 cr.)

This course provides students with a foundation in the design of qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-method approaches to psychological research. Students examine the strengths and limitations of each method and the circumstances for which each approach is considered most appropriate. Students learn how to identify a topic for research and conduct a literature search, and they also discover the importance of scholarly writing. Students learn to write an introduction, a purpose for the study, research questions, and hypotheses; to use theory; to define the significance of the study; and to identify procedures for data collection and analysis that lead to the completion of a research prospectus. Students are exposed to legal and ethical issues associated with participant involvement in research. (Prerequisite: PSYC 6305.)

PSYC 6235 Cognitive Psychology (5 cr.)

This course describes the historical evolution of complex cognitive processes and introduces students to the major cognitive theories and their applications to research in human learning. Major topics include research on higher order mental processes such as perception, learning, memory, problem-solving, categorization, decision-making, and language. The course examines individual and cultural differences in learning styles and highlights aspects of learning related to diversity.

PSYC 6315 Tests and Measurement (5 cr.)

The course provides students with a comprehensive examination of the psychometric procedures used to develop and validate educational, psychological, and organizational instruments. Topics include normative samples, reliability and validity, test score interpretation, and test development. Professional standards for testing are reviewed and consulted at all phases of the course. Ethical issues in testing, integration of testing in the overall assessment process, overall assessment of individual differences, diversity issues in testing, and cultural fairness and bias in testing are also explored. (Prerequisite: PSYC 6305.)

PSYC 6245 Social Psychology (5 cr.)

This course provides students with an overview of classic and contemporary topics in social psychology with a focus on how social contexts influence and shape individual behavior. Topics covered include research methods in social psychology, the relation of self and culture, person perception, attitudes and their relation to behavior, attribution theory, persuasion, conformity and obedience, interpersonal attraction, prejudice, aggression, group dynamics, intergroup relations, and multiculturalism. The course is presented with a focus on cross-cultural similarities and variations in the impact of context on behavior.

PSYC 6701 Culture and Psychology (5 cr.)

This course explores the foundations of cross-cultural work from various disciplines in the field of psychology and addresses the cross-cultural application of traditional theories and models. Topics include the distinction between universal and culture-specific phenomena related to personality development, social behavior, research approaches, and gender; issues of acculturation; and cultural variations related to abnormal, clinical, social, and organizational psychology.

PSYC 6393 M.S. Psychology Capstone (5 cr.)

During this course, students work on a capstone project during which students complete a major, integrative paper on a topic related to the specialization that incorporates theoretical and practical knowledge and social scientific research skills acquired throughout the program. Other capstone projects may be approved by the instructor.

This all would be for the Masters degree and this next part is for the doctorate degree on the Educational Psychology Track

Completion Requirements

121 total quarter credit hours, course-based

Core courses (71 or 76 cr.)

Elective courses (15 or 20 cr.)

Dissertation (30 cr.)

Professional Development Plan and Program of Study (included in PSYC 6000)

Minimum 12 quarters enrollment

3.0 GPA

20 days of residency (two 4-day and two 6-day residencies)

For a personalized estimate of your time to completion, call your enrollment advisor at 1-866-492-5336.

Walden offers frequent start dates so that you can begin when it’s convenient for you. Next Start Date: December 1. Admission policies vary by program. Call 1-866-492-5336 or apply now.

Educational Psychology Track The objective of the Educational Psychology track is to prepare students to integrate psychological theory and practice, using scientific methods and evidence-based practice to inform undergraduate and graduate instruction that incorporates issues of cultural and individual diversity. Core Courses

*See course descriptions for prerequisites.

Course Code Course Title Credits
PSYC 6000 Foundations for Graduate Study in Psychology 6
PSYC 6205 History and Systems of Psychology 5
PSYC 6215 Lifespan Development 5
PSYC 6225 Biopsychology 5
PSYC 6235 Cognitive Psychology 5
PSYC 6305 Statistics 1 5
PSYC 6310 Research Design* 5
PSYC 6315 Tests and Measurement* 5
PSYC 8305 Statistics 2 5
PSYC 8700 Psychology and Social Change 5
PSYC 8705 Ethics and Standards of Professional Practice 5
PSYC 8760 Educational Psychology 5
PSYC 8762 Teaching of Psychology 5
PSYC 8763 Principles of Instructional Design 5
PSYC 8764 Instructional Design for Online Course Development 5

Elective Courses Three courses, selected from graduate courses in the School of Psychology, may be added anywhere in your program, provided that you meet the prerequisites.

Dissertation
*See course descriptions for prerequisites.


PSYC 6000 Foundations for Graduate Study in Psychology (6 cr.)

This course introduces students to Walden University and to the requirements for successful participation in an online curriculum. It provides a foundation for academic and professional success as a scholar-practitioner and social change agent. Course assignments focus on practical application of writing and critical-thinking skills and promote professional and academic excellence as they relate to practice in psychology and counseling.

PSYC 6215 Lifespan Development (5 cr.)

This course provides students with an overview of development through the lifespan, including childhood, adolescence, adulthood, and aging experiences. Physical, social, emotional, and cognitive issues are covered, as well as the expected developmental milestones during each of these phases of development. The latest research in attachment theory, brain research, and aging is included, and themes of diversity issues related to developmental research are highlighted throughout the course.

PSYC 6225 Biopsychology (5 cr.)

This course reviews the structure and functions of the central and peripheral nervous systems and explores the impact of neurobiology, endocrinology, and physiology on human behavior. Major topics include brain functioning, especially exploration of neural conduction; effects of neurotransmitters; sensory systems; and mechanisms of attention, memory, perception, and language. Issues related to neuroplasticity, lateralization, and regeneration are addressed.

PSYC 8305 Statistics 2 (5 cr.)

This course reviews and expands on statistical techniques mastered in Statistics 1; t-test, correlation analysis, ANOVA, and chi-square are briefly reviewed. Topics include understanding underlying assumptions and applications of factorial, repeated measures (within groups), and mixed design ANOVA, multiple regression, and logistic regression. Students learn applications necessary for completing doctoral dissertations and learn to critically read and write about psychological research. All analyses involve the use of the software Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). (Prerequisite: PSYC 6305.)

PSYC 8700 Psychology and Social Change (5 cr.)

This course focuses on the theories of social and personal change. Topics include power and social inequalities, ethnic inequalities, global environment and social change, issues related to gender and sexism, and homophobia. In addition, students are presented with the impact of social change theories on children, families, and societies. The concepts of change agent and change advocate are explored, as well as the role of the psychologist as change agent.

PSYC 8705 Ethics and Standards of Professional Practice (5 cr.)

This course examines the origins of professional codes of ethics and standards of practice. Ethics and standards of practice are explored in depth. Topics include confidentiality, client-provider relationships, issues in assessment, ethical issues related to psychotherapy, ethics of research, and ethics involved in working with diverse populations. Additionally, students are introduced to forensic psychology and issues related to establishing a practice. The course also explores how cultural factors are addressed in various ethical codes and the implications for scholar-practitioners.

PSYC 8760 Educational Psychology (5 cr.)

This course examines the variables related to teaching and learning. Topics include teaching methods, educational achievement, learning environments, curriculum development, and characteristics of teachers and learners. Educational assessment, environmental issues, and educational research techniques are also explored.

PSYC 8762 Teaching of Psychology (5 cr.)

This course examines techniques and issues related to teaching psychology at the college/university level. The primary focus is on teaching skills, developing rapport with students, managing the course, and managing the classroom. Classroom communication and ethical issues relevant to both faculty and students are also covered.

PSYC 8763 Principles of Instructional Design (5 cr.)

This course presents a critical analysis of various instructional methods and techniques. It provides an overview of major theories of learning and an analysis of specific instructional applications. Students apply their prior knowledge of learning, development, and cognition to understanding factors related to instruction and instructional design. (Prerequisites: PSYC 6230 or 6235, 8760.)

PSYC 8764 Instructional Design for Online Course Development (5 cr.)

This course explores instructional design and delivery of online courses, issues related to assessment and evaluation in a distance-learning environment, and appropriate and systematic use of technology in online learning venues. Issues such as learning styles and instructional strategies in the online environment, alternatives to the online lecture, and effective course objectives and discussion questions are explored. (Prerequisite: PSYC 8763.)

PSYC 6230 Psychology of Learning and Memory (5 cr.)

This course introduces students to the concepts of learning (commonly associated with mechanistic and behavioral approaches) and memory (commonly associated with constructivist and cognitive approaches). The course examines the historical and current approaches to understanding the individual, environmental, and social processes that determine knowledge and behavior change. Major topics include exploration of neurophysiological, biochemical, environmental manipulation and reinforcement, modeling, simulation, introspection, and phenomenological methods used to investigate the learning process. Individual differences and influence of culture on learning and memory are also presented.

PSYC 6240 Human Motivation (5 cr.)

This course provides an overview of physiological, psychological, and social aspects in the study of motivation and includes an exploration of historical and contemporary theories and perspectives. The course emphasizes both conceptual understanding of theories associated with motivation and their applications to personal, professional, and social issues. Major topics include physiological, learned, cognitive, and emotional aspects of motivation. Themes of diversity are threaded throughout the course.

PSYC 6331 Interviewing and Observational Strategies (5 cr.)

This course focuses on principles and skills related to interviewing and observation, as well as related legal, ethical, and cultural issues. Students gain practice in conducting interviews, making behavioral observations, collecting and interpreting data during an interview, and developing written reports of findings.

PSYC 8315 Program Evaluation (5 cr.)

This course introduces students to evaluation research. Topics include the history and theory underlying program evaluation; approaches to evaluation, procedures, and techniques for entering a group for which one would provide evaluation services; selecting appropriate quantitative and/or qualitative models and techniques used to perform the evaluation; strategies for getting gatekeepers to be invested in the development of the research and in the outcomes; demonstration of program effectives; and dissemination of results to stakeholders. (Prerequisites: PSYC 6305, 6310.)

PSYC 8784 Psychological Consultation (5 cr.)

This course examines the history, theory, process, and methods in the f ield of psychological consultation. It reviews the qualifications and techniques required by the psychologist to consult in a variety of settings, including the courtroom, business and industry, and educational, mental health, and medical settings.

PSYC 8871 Practicum (6 cr.—3 cr. per term for 2 terms)

The practicum provides students with the opportunity to engage in a supervised experience that integrates theory and research with practice. The practicum experience includes guided development of intermediate conceptual, assessment, intervention, and evaluation skills; awareness of professional and ethical issues; professional and interpersonal growth; development of cultural competence; and effective use of supervision. Students must secure a practicum appropriate to their specialization, and the practicum must meet the current requirements of the state psychology board to which the student intends to apply. The practicum must be designed for a period of no fewer than 750 hours, to be completed over a minimum of two terms. Students participate in an online classroom experience. (Prerequisite: Completion of the practicum application and approval of the f ield training coordinator.)

PSYC 9000 Dissertation Research (30 cr.)

This course sequence offers doctoral students the opportunity to integrate their Program of Study into an in-depth exploration of an interest area that includes the completion of a research study. Students complete the dissertation independently, with the guidance of a chair and committee members. During the first term, students write the prospectus. During the remaining quarters, students work with a research mentor (dissertation chair) to develop the remaining chapters of the dissertation, complete an application for institutional review board approval, collect and analyze data, and complete the dissertation. During the final quarter, students prepare the dissertation for final review by the university and conclude with an oral defense of their dissertation. (Prerequisite for first quarter: May be concurrently enrolled in last quarter of coursework but not concurrent with PSYC 6305, 6310, 6315, 8305, 8310, 8315, or any 6000-level coursework.)

posted by Ann Marie @ 10/11/2008 12:26:00 PM Comments: 0