Students Teaching Students: An Experiential Learning Opportunity for Large Introductory Psychology Classes in Collaboration with Local Elementary Schools

Abstract

Students in large, lecture-based introductory psychology classes often do not have the benefit of experiential learning (EL) opportunities due to logistical constraints. To overcome this obstacle, we developed an EL project in which introductory psychology students in small groups present some aspect of the course material to local elementary school classes. The project challenges undergraduate students to demonstrate a deep level of understanding of the presentation material. Such depth of understanding enables them to flexibly communicate material in an age-appropriate manner to kindergarten through 5th-grade students. Feedback results from undergraduate students, elementary school students, and teachers demonstrated that this project supported learning outcomes in undergraduates in a positive and enjoyable way for both student groups.