Undergraduate Research in Small Psychology Departments: Two Decades Later

Abstract

In a follow-up to Kierniesky (1984), surveys from 355 small psychology programs revealed changes in undergraduate research activity over the past 2 decades. A variety of research-related activities increased significantly despite continued limited resources and support at many small schools. School admissions selectivity continued to be a major variable associated with more student research activity. The development of graduate programs at small schools has had little impact on undergraduate research. I discuss the dual roles of undergraduate research as apprentice training and as liberal education.