Studying vs. Learning
In 2017, I published my second book about how to be a successful student. Different (I believe) from the banality of ordinary student success advice, I prepared something based not only on my experience as a teacher and clinician, but also on research. I wanted students to know that the ideas are not just my opinion. They are substantive from both and educational point of view and a psychological point of view.
Here is the blurb on the back of the book:
"If you want to maximize your learning and success in college, you need quality thinking skills, learning skills, and psychological skills far more than you need studying tips. This book will help you develop those skills, making you more confident, efficient, and productive. It is a practical guide to developing essential skills for college, many you have never learned about before, with straight-forward suggestions you can put into practice right now.
When life is tough, you don’t make flashcards and memorize definitions. You need the personal skills and habits described in Studying vs. Learning to deal effectively with difficult circumstances, inside and outside of school."
I don't presume to know the needs of everyone, and many students are already well-equipped to succeed in college. However, if you know someone who is about to embark on a college journey, perhaps this might help.
Click on the image of the book for its online availability.
OR
Download the PDF for only $10
Introduction to Psychology
Science and Insight for Modern Times
This is my first text book and will be published by Cognella, Inc. It is a fully interactive e-book, featuring alignment with the American Psychological Association's seven integrative themes and its Introductory Psychology Initiative.
Based on 30 years experience in the field, I have proposed a new, comprehensive definition of psychology:
Psychology is the scientific study of human physiology, behavior, and mental processes across developmental, social, and cultural contexts.
Psychology today is dynamic, adaptive, and deeply connected by technology, global culture, and ever-emerging scientific findings. The book’s structure is updated and streamlined. It is brief but thorough, emphasizing clarity and depth over exhaustive detail. You will find cumulative knowledge questions, clear learning objectives aligned with the APA’s IPI, and consistent integration of scientific rigor with cultural relevance.
This text represents where psychology is and where it is going. The focus is on contemporary science, real-world applications, and the insight needed to navigate complexity.
Table of Contents:
Section 1: Studying Psychology
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Studying Psychology in an Introductory Course
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Psychology’s Early Influencers & Modern Perspectives
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Research: The Backbone of Psychology
Section 2: Human Physiology
4. Nature/Nurture, Genetics, and Epigenetics
5. The Central Nervous System
6. Awareness, Attention, & Sensation
7. Sleep & Altered States
8. The Biological Nature of Stress
Section 3: Who You Are
9. Emotions
10. Learned Behavior
11. Memory
12. Thinking & Intelligence
13. Personality
Section 4: The Context for Who You Are
14. Lifespan Development
15. Social & Cultural Influences
Section 5: Living Healthfully
16. Psychological Assessment & Diagnosis
17. Promoting Mental Health
Available for Fall '26 semester!
Coming in August 2026
Cognella