Educational Psychology

What is educational psychology? Educational psychology is the study of how humans learn in educational settings, distinguishing it from, but incorporating, operant and classical conditionings and observational learning.

Learning Theories

Learning Theories : Objectivism

Learning Theories : Constructivism

A Small Distinction Educational psychology is more concerned with research and theory, while school psychology is associated with practitioners in school-related settings. School psychology depends significantly on elements of educational psychology and clinical psychology. School psychology is a field related to the diagnosis and treatment of behavioral and educational problems.

School Psychologist education

School Psychologist Although called “school psychologists”, they may not necessarily work in schools. Other work settings include clinics, hospitals, universities, private practices, and community/state agencies. The majority of school psychologists work under a contract: 50.4% work between 180-190 days annually and 33.6% work 200 days or more. A minority work per diem, with a mean per diem salary of $312. Those with Ed.S. degrees have a per diem mean of $287, and those with Ph.D. degrees earn $350. For 2004-2005, the national median salary for practitioners with 200 day contracts was $62,513. The Mid-Atlantic region, including NY, NJ, and PA, had the highest regional mean of $70,600, or $353 per diem. The West South Central region, including IA, KS, MN, MO, ND, NE, and SD, had the lowest regional mean of $50,400, or $252 per diem.

School Psychologist School psychology encompasses other fields of psychology, including developmental psychology, learning psychology, personality psychology, clinical psychology, and educational psychology. Education: In undergraduate study, areas that should be focused on are child development and psychology, general psychology, statistics and research methods, philosophy and theories of education, instruction and curriculum, and special education. A master’s degree or specialist degree in school psychology, psychology, or counseling is required. Specialist degree (Ed.S.) requires three years of graduate study and one year of internship after a master’s degree. Can continue with doctorate degree in school psychology, education, or special education. Certification by the NASP as a NCSP is also recommended.

School Psychologist Employment is expected to grow as fast as average job growth (12%), and the outlook is best for those with doctorate degrees. Master’s degree holders will encounter great competition in the job market as well as in graduate schools, both of which are highly competitive.

Discussion Questions What theory, or class of theories, do you agree with most? In what other occupations would knowledge of these theories be advantageous? How do you think this job compares to other school-related psychology jobs?