Chapter 1: Introducing Psychology "Careers in Psychology"

Introduction
Students have read about why people study psychology and what careers are available in psychology. In this exercise, students go to the American Psychological Association's Web site to learn more about specific careers in psychology and to read interviews with people who work in those positions.

Lesson Description
Students will use information from the Psychology/Careers for the Twenty-First Century Web site to learn about careers in psychology. Students will read about how psychologists conduct research, promote physical and mental health, study and contribute to the work environment, and assist in education. They will also read what people who have those careers say about their jobs. Students will then answer four questions and apply this information by writing a newspaper help-wanted advertisement for one of the jobs that the student learned about in this activity.

Instructional Objectives
1. Students will be able to summarize the careers in psychology and understand the many contributions of psychologists to our society.
2. Students will be able to use this knowledge to write a newspaper help-wanted advertisement for one of the jobs that the student learned about in this activity.

Student Web Activity Answers
1. Psychologists work as part of a health-care team in hospitals, medical schools, outpatient clinics, nursing homes, pain clinics, rehabilitation facilities, and community health and mental health centers. Psychologists work with physicians, nutritionists, physiotherapists, and social workers to prevent or treat illness. They may work to change unhealthy behaviors, help the patient cope with stress, or try to ensure the patient follows recommended treatments. Teamwork in the health-care field is becoming more common. The psychologist in the management team in an industrial facility works to establish an atmosphere most conducive to quality work and productivity. Through surveys, informal interviews, and focus groups, psychologists gather data to diagnose problems. They provide analyses to industrial firms' management teams to correct problems and increase worker efficiency and satisfaction.
2. Psychologists can use their science and math skills in research. Mathematical and statistical approaches are usually necessary to understand the data gathered. Psychology uses the same approach as other sciences - methodical study and information gathering. Psychology is the science of behavior, and so it is concerned with people. Those interested in sociology can seek professions in psychology that allow them to work with people and the problems of society.
3. Computer technology now makes the process of experimenting easier, faster, more precise, and more reasonably priced. Computers are used in nearly every experiment, either in delivery of the stimuli or collecting or analyzing the data. What used to be entered on small calculators 20 years ago is now entered at a computer terminal and saved to disk. Because of computers, using statistical programs is easier than ever. The importance of computers in psychological experimentation has created the need for graduate students who are comfortable with computers and are able to learn new techniques for using microcomputers in the laboratory.
4. Studying psychology can be valuable to anyone, no matter which career they select. Knowing how people learn, understanding the rigorous training in scientific method, and using logical analyses all are useful skills for everyday life. These skills are especially helpful for those in management, human resources, or those planning to be parents.
5. Students' advertisements will vary.

Student Web Activity