This project funds a computer-based laboratory for improving the teaching of research design and analysis skills in the psychology curriculum. The general objective is to improve students' competence, interest, and experience in conducting and analyzing research with computer equipment. This may serve as a model for comprehensive regional universities in widening the pool of future researchers. Students in a two-semester Research Design & Analysis sequence gain experience using a wide range of modern research methods on the computers; these experiences are tied to course objectives to improve understanding and skills in design and analysis. Students design, conduct, and analyze their own original research using the laboratory and are better prepared to enter graduate school and pursue careers in research. The laboratory is also used in other lower- and upper-level psychology classes to provide firsthand experience with research methods covered during class and is available to students working on individual research projects. Hardware and software is being chosen to maximize flexibility and ease of learning, and use of the equipment is being integrated into the Research Design & Analysis curriculum.
