Using Debriefing as a Tool to Enhance the Educational Value of Undergraduate Research Participation

Abstract

Background Limited research exists on enhancing the educational value of research participation among undergraduate research participants. Objective The aim of the current studies was to examine the impact of extended debriefings and incentives on actual learning and perceptions of research participation. Method Three undergraduate samples were recruited from introductory psychology courses. A total of 943 students participated across the three studies by completing a series of assessments online. Results Findings from this series of studies suggest that extended video debriefings, especially when combined with instructions that incentivize attending to debriefing content, may be an effective tool to increase the educational value of undergraduate research participation. Conclusion Extended debriefings and incentives may enhance learning associated with research participation among undergraduates. Teaching Implications Psychology departments could consider using extended debriefings and incentives to enhance learning and quizzes to assess learning outcomes associated with research participation.