Educational Psychology Minor

Educational psychology is the branch of psychology concerned with the scientific study of human learning. Studying learning processes from cognitive, social, emotional, and developmental perspectives allows researchers to understand individual differences in intelligence, cognitive development, affect, motivation, self-regulation, and self-concept as well as their roles in learning. The field of educational psychology relies heavily on research methods such as testing and measurement to enhance educational activities related to instructional design, classroom management, and assessment and to facilitate learning processes in various educational settings across the lifespan.

Educational psychology is interdisciplinary, informed primarily by psychology, neuroscience, sociology, and cultural studies. It in turn informs a wide range of specialties within educational studies, including instructional design, educational technology, curriculum development, organizational learning, decision making, adult education, special education, and management.

An educational psychologist may:

• Assess learning and emotional needs by observing and consulting with multidisciplinary teams to advise on the best approaches and provisions to support learning development
• Evaluate and analyze teaching methods, training methods, and educational programs
• Create and develop new educational methods, instruments, or programs
• Formulate interventions that focus on applying knowledge, skills, and expertise to support local and national initiatives
• Advise, support, educate, and negotiate with teachers, parents, and other educational professionals
• Facilitate meetings, discussions, seminars, and courses
• Review and develop policies