Instructor: Dr. Daniel Arkkelin	Office: DMH 219
Office Hours: 2:30 - 3:30 p.m. M W; 11 a.m.- 12 p.m. T R	Phone: 219.464.5441
HomePage: www.valpo.edu/home/faculty/darkkeli	e-mail: Daniel.Arkkelin@valpo.edu

Lab Description: The purpose of this lab is to acquaint you with some of the methods with which environmental psychologists investigate phenomena discussed in lecture. In addition to studying issues of research methodology in general, you will get "hands-on" experience with the research process via several class projects to be conducted during the semester. In these projects, you will learn how to formulate hypotheses, to design investigations to test those hypotheses, and to collect, analyze, and interpret data. You will gain experience in reporting scientific investigations via two lab research reports that you will write in which you will report the results of class projects.

Attendance & Grading Policies:On this syllabus you will find a schedule of readings, exercises, and class projects. Since this is an action-oriented course, it is essential that you be present at each lab session. Period! Thus, class attendance is mandatory, and absences will be considered only in cases of extreme hardship. Two unexcused absences will result in a reduction of one letter grade from the course grade, three absences will result in two letter grades reduction, and four absences will result in an "F" for the course. The requirements of this lab include participating in class projects, completing the exercises and written assignments, and taking two quizzes. Your lab grade will be determined according to the following components:

Lab Reports	120 pts.
Quizzes	60 pts.
Participation	20 pts.
Total	200 pts.

Grades will be assigned according to the following criteria: 90-100% = A; 80-89% = B; 70-79% = C; 60-69% = D; < 60% = F. The instructor retains the right to lower these criteria, but they will not be raised under any circumstances.

Philosophy: Environmental psychology is a fundamentally research-oriented discipline. It is hoped that the lab will give you an appreciation for this orientation, as well as help you develop your own research skills. Research in environmental psychology is dynamic and rewarding. As with any such endeavor, it also requires considerable commitment of time and effort. If you make this commitment, you should find this lab to be an enjoyable (even fun!) and valuable learning experience.