'Mythbusters': A Tool for Teaching Research Methods in Psychology

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Bibliographic Details
Title: 'Mythbusters': A Tool for Teaching Research Methods in Psychology
Language: English
Authors: Burkley, Edward, Burkley, Melissa
Source: Teaching of Psychology. 2009 36(3):179-184.
Availability: Routledge. Available from: Taylor & Francis, Ltd. 325 Chestnut Street Suite 800, Philadelphia, PA 19106. Tel: 800-354-1420; Fax: 215-625-2940; Web site: http://www.tandf.co.uk/journals
Peer Reviewed: Y
Physical Description: PDF
Page Count: 6
Publication Date: 2009
Document Type: Journal Articles
Reports - Descriptive
Education Level: Higher Education
Postsecondary Education
Descriptors: Research Methodology, Courses, Psychological Studies, Television Viewing, Mass Media Use, Concept Teaching, Instructional Effectiveness, Student Attitudes, Undergraduate Students, Test Items, Scores
DOI: 10.1080/00986280902739586
ISSN: 0098-6283
Abstract: "Mythbusters" uses multiple research methods to test interesting topics, offering research methods students an entertaining review of course material. To test the effectiveness of "Mythbusters" clips in a psychology research methods course, we systematically selected and showed 4 clips. Students answered questions about the clips, offered their opinions of them, and ultimately responded to "Mythbusters"-related exam items. Students indicated that the clips helped them understand course concepts, helped them apply their knowledge to real-world research studies, and provided them with an enjoyable educational experience. More important, students performed better on "Mythbusters"-related exam items than on control items, suggesting the clips were effective pedagogical tools for psychology research methods courses. We discuss specific "Mythbusters" clips that are relevant to psychological concepts. (Contains 3 tables and 2 notes.)
Abstractor: As Provided
Number of References: 15
Entry Date: 2009
Accession Number: EJ856772
Database: ERIC
Description
Abstract:"Mythbusters" uses multiple research methods to test interesting topics, offering research methods students an entertaining review of course material. To test the effectiveness of "Mythbusters" clips in a psychology research methods course, we systematically selected and showed 4 clips. Students answered questions about the clips, offered their opinions of them, and ultimately responded to "Mythbusters"-related exam items. Students indicated that the clips helped them understand course concepts, helped them apply their knowledge to real-world research studies, and provided them with an enjoyable educational experience. More important, students performed better on "Mythbusters"-related exam items than on control items, suggesting the clips were effective pedagogical tools for psychology research methods courses. We discuss specific "Mythbusters" clips that are relevant to psychological concepts. (Contains 3 tables and 2 notes.)
ISSN:0098-6283
DOI:10.1080/00986280902739586