Don't Pop It! Modifying the Balloon Analogue Risk Task for a Course-Based Research Experience

Abstract

Background

Relatively few studies focus on Course-Based Undergraduate Research Experiences (CUREs) to improve retention of knowledge and enhance student research experience in the social sciences.

Objective

We introduced a modified, manual version of the Balloon Analogue Risk Task (BART), in which students engaged in all phases of a research project, including the development of a risk-taking assessment, participant recruitment, scale administration, presentation of the modified BART, data collection, and data entry and analysis.

Method

To determine the effectiveness of the CUREs, students self-reported their research knowledge and skills using pre–post measures. Additionally, we measured attitudes and perceptions of the student's experience with the research project.

Results

Results from the learning outcomes demonstrated increased research knowledge and skills and a positive overall experience with the project.

Conclusion

The modified BART is an effective CURE for engaging undergraduate psychology students enrolled in research methods courses.

Teaching Implications

Engagement through hands-on research project design and data collection, as demonstrated with the modified BART, may serve to increase the overall retention of information and enhance class experience, potentially creating a pipeline for further engagement in high-impact practices for undergraduate psychology students.