Making It Applicable: Using Introspective Essays in Abnormal Psychology Classes

• Published in: College student journal 2014-12, Vol.48 (4), p.689-696
• Main Authors: Nelson III, Stukenberg, Karl W., Laffoon, Anthony T.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Analysis; Applied Learning; College students; Education; Educational Benefits; Essays; Factor Analysis; Instructional Effectiveness; Likert Scales; Methods; Psychological aspects; Psychology; Psychopathology; Questionnaires; Reflection; Relevance (Education); Satisfaction; Scores; Self Evaluation (Individuals); Self-Analysis; Student Attitudes; Study and teaching; Teaching Methods; Teaching Psychology; Undergraduate Students; Writing Assignments
• ISSN: 0146-3934; 2691-3887

In the quest for new and effective teaching methods, there is little doubt that activities and lessons which bring course material to students in an applied way that is relevant and pertinent to their lives and interests help to foster more effective learning and retention. A prominent pedagogical tool for this is the use of reflective writing. The present study evaluates student satisfaction with a reflective paper integrating the students' own experiences in an undergraduate abnormal psychology class. As part of their final grade for the class, students in seven different sections were assigned to write a self-analysis essay integrating concepts learned in class and exploring themselves as a person. This activity was designed to challenge students to engage with course material in an applied manner that, in many ways, is very personally relevant. Students then completed questionnaires rating the assignment and its perceived effectiveness. Overall results showed that students believed the assignment to be effective, helpful, and facilitative of their learning of key psychological concepts.