| Abstract: | This paper advocates the necessary common knowledge approach to meaningful broad and general scientific education (as distinct from professional/clinical education) for professional psychologists. Adopting this plan leads to an explicit core curriculum. The current view of the American Psychological Association's Commission on Accreditation regarding broad and general is described. “Common” and “essential” knowledge in medicine are described along with law's core curriculum. A general rationale for broad and general education is developed, and preferred kinds of experiences are suggested. As an example for psychology, a broad and general course on cognitive and affective bases of behavior is described. The way the necessary common view fits with the educational competency movement is explained. High quality broad and general education will have a positive impact on both research and professional practice. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2011 APA, all rights reserved) |
