INTRODUCTION TO

EDUCATIONAL PSYCHOLOGY

Meaning of Psychology

Derived from Greek words

Psyche and logos : soul and science

Earlier psychologists termed it as the study of soul

But soul is metaphysical; cannot be seen

Later explained as the study of mind

Disregarded since the word mind is ambiguous

Some other explained it as the science of consciousness experiences

or

internal

Later defined as the science of Behaviour (20th century)

Behaviour is overt actions : result from inner processes

Thus psychology is a study of inner processes and outer behaviour

Definition of Educational Psychology

Educational psychology deals with the behaviour of human beings in educational situation. (Skinner)

Educational psychology describes and explains the learning experiences of an individual from birth through old old age. (Crow and Crow) The study of human behaviour and experiences as they apply to the learning situation.

Importance of Educational Psychology

Cultural Aim

Enrich his personal life

Knowledge Thought Level Modification of Attitude Standard of Values

Professional Aim

Quality of Instruction Growth and Development of Wholesome Personality Intelligent Self-direction Effective Motivation How of the Learning Process? Why of the Learning Process?

Scope of Educational Psychology

There are five major areas: 1. Human growth and development

Heredity and environment General growth and development Motivation Individual differences Intelligence, aptitude, interests

2. Learning

General nature of learning Factors influencing learning Motivation and devices in teaching Skills Reasoning and problem solving Attitude Transfer of knowledge

3. Personality and adjustment

Emotions Mental life of people Mental health of teacher Exceptional children Character Social interaction

4. Measurement and evaluation

Basic principles of measurement Measurement of intelligence and aptitude Measurement of learning Measurement of adjustment Application on results of measurement

5. Techniques and methods in educational psychology

Scientific study of educational planning Statistical techniques Implementation of research for classroom teacher

QUESTIONS ANSWERS