Teaching Observational Research in Introductory Psychology: Computerized and Lecture-Based Methods

In the introductory psychology course, one major goal is to teach that psychology is a science. Course projects that involve data collection can be a way to engage students and to foster an appreciation of the scientific method. Courseware for Observational Research (COR) is a multimedia program designed to teach basic methods of observational research. Students in 2 introductory psychology classes conducted observational research projects; 1 class was taught using traditional methods and the other using the “Lessons� component of COR. The class taught using COR showed higher performance on a laboratory-based research report. The 2 classes performed similarly on multiple-choice questions concerning the basic concepts. Both classes reported enjoying the project; however, COR appeared to enhance students' perceptions of the importance of research.