System First: An Integrative Approach to Introductory Psychology

In recent years there have been calls for more common features and integration in introductory courses and textbooks. Many conventional introductions cover a series of topic areas in an additive manner, neglecting interconnections and lacking synopses. The perspective-based approach that emerged in the late 1970s as an alternative describes and compares major theoretical perspectives, focusing on differences and controversies rather than the common aspects of the subject matter.
How can students be guided towards conceiving mental-behavioral aspects as a coherent system? The present article describes an overarching two-dimensional structure which focuses on common features of psychology, facilitates the integration of domains and topics, and teaches students various transfer skills. The structure is comprised of fundamental aspects which are not committed to any specific theoretical perspective. From the beginning, all content of introductory courses can be presented in the framework of a systemic structure, and learners can be supported in organizing their knowledge in a system-related rather than additive manner. Thus, the model may provide a powerful tool for current endeavors to strengthen the core of introductory psychology.