Psychology Teachers, Postsecondary
What is a Psychology Teachers, Postsecondary?
Psychology Teachers, Postsecondary are educators who specialize in the instruction of psychology at colleges and universities. They are responsible for teaching various psychological concepts, theories, and practices to undergraduate and graduate students. These educators engage students in learning through lectures, discussions, and laboratory experiences, while also guiding research projects and thesis work. They typically possess an advanced degree in psychology or a related field, often holding a Ph.D. or Psy.D. Their role may also include conducting their own research, publishing findings in academic journals, and contributing to their academic community through service on committees and involvement in professional organizations. Additionally, they play a crucial role in mentoring students, advising on academic and career paths, and preparing them for professional opportunities in psychology and related disciplines.
Tasks
- Prepare and deliver lectures to undergraduate or graduate students on topics such as abnormal psychology, cognitive processes, and work motivation.
- Initiate, facilitate, and moderate classroom discussions.
- Evaluate and grade students' class work, laboratory work, assignments, and papers.
- Keep abreast of developments in the field by reading current literature, talking with colleagues, and participating in professional conferences.
- Compile, administer, and grade examinations, or assign this work to others.
Technology Skills
- Analytical or scientific software
- Computer based training software
- Word processing software
- Data base user interface and query software
- Information retrieval or search software
Tools Used
- Microphones
- Televisions
- Portable data input terminals
- Multimedia projectors
- Videoconferencing systems
Knowledge
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Psychology
Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, personality, and interests; learning and motivation; psychological research methods; and the assessment and treatment of behavioral and affective disorders.
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English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
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Education and Training
Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
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Sociology and Anthropology
Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human migrations, ethnicity, cultures, and their history and origins.
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Mathematics
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
Skills
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Learning Strategies
Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching new things.
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Instructing
Teaching others how to do something.
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Reading Comprehension
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
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Speaking
Talking to others to convey information effectively.
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Active Listening
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Abilities
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Oral Expression
The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
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Written Comprehension
The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
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Written Expression
The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand.
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Oral Comprehension
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
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Speech Clarity
The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.
Education
How much education does a new hire need to perform a job in this occupation?
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Doctoral degree
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Post-doctoral training
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Master's degree
Work Activities
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Training and Teaching Others
Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.
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Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others
Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
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Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships
Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
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Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge
Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
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Working with Computers
Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
Detailed Work Activities
- Teach social science courses at the college level.
- Evaluate student work.
- Guide class discussions.
- Attend training sessions or professional meetings to develop or maintain professional knowledge.
- Stay informed about current developments in field of specialization.
Work Interests
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Social
Work involves helping, teaching, advising, assisting, or providing service to others. Social occupations are often associated with social, health care, personal service, teaching/education, or religious activities.
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Investigative
Work involves studying and researching non-living objects, living organisms, disease or other forms of impairment, or human behavior. Investigative occupations are often associated with physical, life, medical, or social sciences, and can be found in the fields of humanities, mathematics/statistics, information technology, or health care service.

Job Outlook
Projected salary and job growth
$49790.0 - $151890.0
New job opportunities are likely in the future. : Average
Assessment
Related assessments and tests
No assessment available.