Conducting Introductory Psychology Activity Modules as a Requirement in Advanced Undergraduate Courses

Abstract

Small-group activities provide more personalized attention in large introductory psychology classes but require considerable instructor time. Small groups of students in three upper level undergraduate courses were required to design, implement, and evaluate projects that would actively involve introductory students in a topic related to one that the upper level students were studying. Students in Introductory Psychology classes selected and participated in two activities. Advanced and introductory students said that involvement in these activities was a valuable experience and should be required in subsequent terms. This method allows upper level undergraduates the opportunity to apply what they have learned by requiring them to teach, and it increases the amount of individual attention provided students in the introductory class.