Using the APA’s Big Problems Activity in Intro Psych

Over the past few years, I’ve given workshops and presentations at a number of teaching-related conferences on using the Big Problems activity found in the Appendix of the APA report on “Strengthening the Common Core of the Introductory Psychology Course.” I’m very fond of this idea, not just because it’s a terrific way to integrate psychological perspectives along with research ethics and diversity, but because it was a pet idea of my dear friend and intro psych text co-author, John Cacioppo, who served on the committee that prepared the report. John often spoke enthusiastically about how psychology really had a lot to say about the major challenges facing society today, because people contribute to their causes and people are necessary to their solutions.

I’ve played around with various ways to incorporate this idea into my classes. The APA report does not suggest any particular way to do this. My current approach is to use it as a discussion topic over the course of my completely online, five-week (!!!) summer version of Intro Psych. Each week, the students add another component to their examination of a “big problem” of their choice. They begin by selecting their problem from a list I give them (or with my consent for topics not on the list). They consider the contributions of three of the five perspectives (biological, clinical, developmental, social, or cognitive) to the causes and solutions of the problem. As they work, they consider research ethics and diversity issues related to their topic, along with cognitive problem-solving strategies.

I admit that this is a lot to ask, especially when they are reading, doing online homework, viewing videos, and taking quizzes. I’m fortunate to teach well-prepared students! That being said, I think there are ways to work with this discussion idea regardless of institution and level of student preparation.

I’m reasonably happy with the discussion prompts and rubrics I’ve put together, but there is always room for improvement! If you are interested in copies of my prompts and rubrics, please email me at lfreberg “at” calpoly.edu.