Teaching Statistics and Research Methods

Ware and Brewer (1999) estimated that “almost 75% of undergraduate psychology departments in the United States require their students to complete an introductory course in statistics” (p. 1). According to a recent article in the American Psychological Association (APA) Monitor, an experimental methods course is among the few required courses in most psychology curricula (“The Evolution of Experimental Psychology,” 1999). In the Handbook for Teaching Statistics and Research Methods, Ware and Brewer (1999) underscored the importance of effective teaching of statistics and research methods. These courses are prevalent in undergraduate curricula and provide key opportunities for students to develop and sharpen their critical thinking skills. It is no wonder that they receive so much attention in periodicals such as Teaching of Psychology (ToP) and at professional meetings with forums where psychology teachers share ideas.