A Research Practicum: Undergraduates as Assistants in Psychological Research

Abstract

Two recent surveys highlight the fact that participation in research is becoming increasingly popular as a means of teaching research methodology in the undergraduate curriculum. This article describes a project that combined a research practicum for 17 undergraduates with the implementation and evaluation of an assertiveness training program for physically disabled college students. A follow-up of students' post-baccalaureate activities revealed that the majority were indeed using skills that they had learned in the project. Analyses of students' course evaluations revealed knowledge gained that would not have been obtained from more traditional courses in methodology or statistics. Interrater reliability scores (r =. 98 and r =. 97) as well as other variables demonstrated that undergraduates are capable of functioning as competent and dedicated research assistants. A cost/benefit analysis indicated that benefits outweighed the costs of the project.