Psychology A Journey 5e By Dennis Coon

The textbook, Psychology: A Journey, 5e written by Dennis Coon & John O. Mitterer, describes the study of psychology to be “the scientific study of overt behavior and mental processes” (Coon, Mitterer; 2014). This means when someone studies psychology, they study both overt and covert behaviors. Overt behaviors include behaviors that can be seen and observed, while covert behaviors include all of the mental behaviors that go on internally. Psychology can also be studied as a science and a profession, some use psychology for research and problem-solving, while some use it to teach students about this study. The authors let it be known that instead of basing your beliefs on observing humans and “common sense”, it’s important to take into account “scientific observation” when studying psychology. (Coon, Mitterer; 2014)

One of the methods used to study psychology that the textbook describes is “SQR4: survey, question, read, recite, reflect, and review” (Coon, Mitterer; 2014) This strategy goes over how to effectively read a textbook in order to learn in the most efficient way. With this method you first skim through a chapter, ask yourself questions, read while looking for answers, pause to answer the questions and summarize in brief notes mentally, reflect what was read

Putting yourself in a space that prohibits you from anything that may distract you will better your studying session and you’ll learn more efficiently. By having your designated studying area, you don’t have to mentally prepare yourself to study anywhere out of the ordinary and you can start your session in a place your brain already links to learning. The authors also encourage “spaced study sessions” so students should participate in numerous short study sessions and learn bits and pieces every day instead of cramming information at the last