Alternative Project Option
As an alternative to a traditional term paper, you can conduct a field observation of one or more children. You must follow the ethical guidelines below with care to be in compliance with the standards of the psychology department and with the ethics of the profession. A minimum of six (6) hours of observation is required.
First, identify a minimum of three (3) theoretical concepts from text or lecture that you want to observe in a field setting.
Next, obtain formal written permission from the parents and legal guardians of the children you wish to observe, OR from the adult caregivers or service providers (e.g., teachers) who will be overseeing your field observations if these will be taking place in a setting outside of the child's own home. These signed consent documents must be attached to your paper in order for you to receive credit for your work.
Determine how you plan to observe and record data pertinent to the theoretical concepts you have chosen. Unobtrusive observation is best. If you will be interacting directly with the children you will be observing, remember that it is your responsibility to maintain the child's dignity, integrity, and self-worth. If in doubt, don't.
Summarize your observations and their implications in a roughly 10-page report with the following structure. For each chosen theory or concept,
1. Briefly outline or summarize that theory or concept.
2. Present your field observations in detail.
3. Discuss how your observations either do or do not confirm theoretical expectations, and if not, why you think this may have occurred.
At the end of your paper, briefly summarize your experience with this assignment and its value to you as a student.