Psychology teachers instruct students on concepts of human behaviors and why people act the way they do. Through observational analysis, the scientific method and psychological theories, they explain different psychological conditions, therapies and treatments. The depth of instruction varies by the grade level or focus of study.
Some general duties of a psychology teacher include:
Creating lesson plans and materials
Developing curriculum with colleagues
Grading papers, exams and other assignments
Advising students on coursework or goals
Working with school committees
Supporting extracurricular activities
Teaching summer courses
Staying up-to-date with research in psychology
Conducting research or experiments
Publishing in academic fields
Serving on collegiate committees
Supervising graduate studentsMany psychology teachers work in public or private high schools. Here, you introduce students to the basics of psychology, like common disorders or the concept of intelligence and where it comes from. You may even teach Advanced Placement (AP) courses, like AP Psychology, that are more in-depth and rigorous. Expect to work outside of school hours as a psychology teacher, planning lessons or grading papers, though you often enjoy the summer months off.