Psychopharmacology This course will examine ways in which drugs act on the brain to influence behavior. Students will learn the basics of brain function, will learn basic properties of drug action, and will learn how legal and illegal drugs, including drugs used to treat psychological disorders, alter the brain function and behavior of humans and experimental animals.

Psychological Statistics This course will examine statistical methods used in the behavioral and biological sciences. Students will learn the logic underlying statistical analysis, focusing primarily on inferential techniques. They also will become familiar with the application and interpretation of statistics in psychological empirical research, including the use of computer software for conducting and interpreting statistical analyses.

Introduction to Psychology  This course will provide a general introduction to the field of psychology. The most central and important theories, concepts, findings, controversies, and applications in the following areas will be considered: biological bases of behavior, learning, perception, thinking, development, personality, psychological disorders, and social behavior. (Open to Juniors and Seniors by waiver only) 3 hrs lect./1 hr. disc.

Psychobiology and Sex Differences: Exploration and Critique Men and women differ reproductively, in hormonal patterns, in average height, and in muscle mass. Biology is accepted as influencing these differences. Do biological contributions stop at the neck? Or might biology also contribute to neural and behavioral development in human as well as nonhuman species? We will examine evidence both for and against relationships between psychobiological factors (such as hormones and chromosomes) and sex/gender differences in behavior and psychological states (such as play behavior, cognition, sexual orientation, stress, addiction, and psychological disorders). Further, we will consider potential perils of such investigations, and additionally, will explore relationships between social/experiential factors and sex/gender differences as these may provide alternative, sometimes stronger, explanations.

Marcia Collaer

Reviews and ratings for Marcia Collaer at Middlebury College.Marcia Collaer teaches Psychopharmacology, Psychological Statistics, Introduction To Psychology and more.  Explore top rated instructors and find the best for you.Is Marcia Collaer good ? Find out on MiddCourses.

Great course with really interesting topics! Exams/quizzes had a decent amount of material on them but were fair in what they covered. Final research project of your own choice was a really cool way to delve deeper into topics I was interested about. 

Collaer was amazing. Her personality really showed through her lectures, and she has a lot of years of experience in teaching intro to psych. The exams are based on the readings, I would say around 60% of the exam is the reading and 40% is lecture so please at least skim the chapter terms and pay attention to any studies or case-studies done. 

I loved this class. Definitely recommend for anyone looking to fill out any requirements. The professor was also great and made understanding the material very easy. Some people did not read the textbook and did perfectly fine. Personally It helped me be more prepared for answering question in class. However, not a hundred percent needed if you don't have the time.  