Integrating Professional Development Across the Curriculum: An Effectiveness Study. (April 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Ciarocco, Natalie J.; Dinella, Lisa M.; Hatchard, Christine J.; Valosin, Jayde
• Is Part Of: Teaching of psychology. Volume 43:Number 2(2016:Apr.)
• Page Start: 91
• Page End: 98
• Publication Date: 2016-04
• Subjects: professional development -- career development -- psychology -- undergraduate; Psychology -- Study and teaching (Higher) -- Periodicals; 150.711
• DOI: 10.1177/0098628316636217
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0098-6283

Abstract

The current study empirically tested the effectiveness of a modular approach to integrating professional development across an undergraduate psychology curriculum. Researchers conducted a two-group, between-subjects experiment on 269 undergraduate psychology students assessing perceptions of professional preparedness and learning. Analysis revealed those participating in the modular approach had a higher understanding of and investment in the psychology major, a higher awareness of professional development opportunities, higher knowledge of career options with a background in psychology, and better knowledge of professional development activities. Quiz scores indicate that students learned about professional development from the modules. Overall, the results imply that a modular approach to professional development can be effective and beneficial to students. Psychology programs should consider utilizing similar approaches in their curricula.