PSY 344. Psychology and Culture
The goal of the course is to introduce students to the field of cultural psychology. We explore how culture influences human thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. The relations between culture and psychology are both complex and profound. In contrast to the view that psychological processes are essentially the same everywhere, cultural psychologists examine how psychological processes are inextricably linked to specific social, cultural, and historical contexts. [Syllabus]
PSY 442. Prejudice and Stereotypes
The goal of this course is to provide students with a solid training in theories and research on prejudice and stereotyping. We examine important questions pertaining to these areas of study and identify the answers currently being proposed by the research community. We cover in depth topics such as the roots and functions of stereotypes, classic theories of intergroup conflict, contemporary forms of prejudice, consequences of prejudice and stereotyping, reactions to diversity, and approaches aimed at reducing stereotyping and prejudice. [Syllabus]
HON 413. Psychology of Diversity and Multiculturalism
The goal of this course is to provide students with a solid training in the psycho-social dynamics coming into play in diverse and multicultural settings. Increasingly, the notions of diversity and multiculturalism are used to describe important facets of many social environments. In a world characterized by a globalized economy, movements of populations, and new communication technologies, individuals are increasingly immersed in diverse and multicultural settings. These societal changes influence the frequency and nature of intercultural contacts and also shape people’s understanding of who they are. The unprecedented degree of social and cultural diversity can be source of both aspirations and concerns. This course prepares students to navigate a diverse and multicultural world. Students are exposed to a variety of relevant research perspectives and learn about these topics through multiple instructional methods. [Syllabus]
Study Abroad Program - Thriving on Diversity and Multiculturalism
This study abroad program focuses on the psycho-social dynamics coming into play in diverse and multicultural settings. This global learning experience prepares students to navigate a diverse and multicultural world. For two weeks, participants are exposed to a variety of relevant research perspectives, learn about this theme through multiple instructional methods, and interact with international experts. In addition, they are immersed in two contrasting cultural and national contexts (the city of Milan located in the Northern part of Italy and the city of Lausanne or Geneva located in the French speaking part of Switzerland) giving them the opportunity to experience firsthand multiculturalism. In addition to formal instructional activities, this study abroad program includes two one-day excursions and a number of cultural activities tied to the learning objectives. The program was offered in 2016, 2017, 2018, and 2019. [Video]
