Faculty Publications

The Mind As Black Box: A Simulation Of Theory Building In Psychology

Document Type

Article

Journal/Book/Conference Title

Teaching of Psychology

Volume

27

Issue

3

First Page

195

Last Page

197

Abstract

This activity gives students a collaborative, hands-on experience in theory building. Using the metaphor “the mind is a black box,” students work together in small groups to discover what is inside a sealed, black, plastic box. In all, 63 undergraduate and 11 graduate students evaluated the activity. Students reported that they enjoyed the activity and that it helped them learn more about the development of scientific theories; the existence of conflicting theories; and the value of logical thinking, imagination, and social collaboration in the process of scientific investigation. © 2000, Society for the Teaching of Psychology. All rights reserved.

Department

Department of Psychology

Original Publication Date

1-1-2000

DOI of published version

10.1207/S15328023TOP2703_06

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