Assignment: Learning the Scientific Method by Analyzing Study Skills Research

Abstract

In this activity, which is typically completed during the second week of the semester, students read and analyze the data presented in a one-page newsletter article describing cognitive psychology research on study methods presented in an education workshop at an American Society of Plant Biologists annual meeting. Students practice identifying parts of the scientific method within the study's design and analyze the data presented to determine which study methods were shown to be most effective. They also answer questions designed to have them think about those conclusions in the context of the course. After a class discussion, students are broken into groups and asked to reflect on their study habits in light of this research and develop a study plan for the semester incorporating what they've learned from the research study's conclusions.