The middle school years can be a time of great change, for U.S. based learners.  Studies show many 6th graders experience a sharp drop in grades, while we also see anxiety increasing from 1 in 7 in kids to 1 in 3 adolescents by the end of high school. 

The research discussed in this class provides strategies to prepare learners to navigate through the transition to high school in the most successful way possible.
 
This class is ideal for learners who have an interest in learning about psychology research that relates to some of the primary concerns of middle school aged students. Each class will focus on a different topic. 

Class 1- Psychology of Friendship- what is it, why we need it, how to make and keep friends, and research on the frequency and impact of dating in middle school and high school.
Class 2- Psychology of Learning and Memory- how does memory and learning work, how can we apply research findings to make studying and test taking easier/more successful
Class 3- Psychology of Bullies- what is behind bullying behavior, what's the impact of bullying behavior; what research says is the best and worst ways to respond to bullies
Class 4- Psychology Anxiety/Stress- what is the physiological aspect of anxiety and stress, impact of anxiety / stress that goes unaddressed, strategies to reduce anxiety / stress
Class 5- Psychology of Family- the impact of various family interaction styles and behaviors on individual development, influence of birth order on development, and strategies to foster positive relationships with family members.

Each class will have three sections.
I.   Define the topic for the week
II.  Learn about research studies and outcomes related to the weekly topic
III.  Apply the research findings to making everyday life better in friendships, school work, and managing stress/anxiety.

This is an educational, fact-based course, and not a counseling or therapy group. 

Because research says students learn better when relaxed, learners will not be called on.  

The material is presented lecture style, using google slides, with a handout provided for each lesson. Chat box polls will be used to encourage participation.  Participation is welcomed, but never required.
 
No prior experience is needed for this class, only an interest in psychology.

I have a structured, yet humor-filled teaching style, designed to keep student's interest, and help learner's feel comfortable.  I'll use slides and gifs to reinforce concepts, as well.