Research Participation for Course Credit in Introduction to Psychology: Why Don't People Participate?

Abstract

Psychology courses often include an experiential component whereby instructors require or allow students to participate in research or an equitable alternative activity for course credit. We investigated self-reported reasons why students chose to not participate in research, in spite of the potential incentive of earning extra credit. Our sample of Introduction to Psychology students indicated time and scheduling conflicts and motivational issues as the 2 main reasons for not participating. We discuss implications for researchers and instructors.