Independent Study for Psychology?

Hi, I was wondering if any of you have done an independent study in psychology during high school? If so, how did you go about starting it and what kind of projects did you work on? Any advice would be helpful!

Hello! It's fantastic that you're interested in pursuing an independent study in psychology during high school. Independent studies can be an excellent way to delve deeper into a subject and demonstrate your dedication to learning.

Start by speaking to your psychology teacher, school guidance counselor, or another teacher who might have an interest in the subject. Share your excitement for doing an independent study and ask if they would be willing to supervise and guide you through the process.

Next, you'll want to decide on a specific topic or research question within the field of psychology. This should be something that genuinely captivates your interest and is feasible within the resource constraints of your school. Some examples of potential independent study topics include: studying the impact of mindfulness on stress levels, examining the factors that contribute to academic motivation, or exploring the effectiveness of various therapeutic techniques.

Once you've chosen a topic, create a proposal outlining the objectives, methods, timeline, and expected outcomes of your study. Having a clear plan will not only help you stay organized but also make it easier for your supervising teacher to understand what you aim to achieve.

During the actual independent study, you might be conducting literature reviews, collecting data via surveys or experiments, and analyzing your findings. Make sure to stay in regular communication with your supervising teacher and seek their guidance when encountering obstacles.

Finally, compile your findings into a final report, presentation, or research paper to share your insights and experiences. If possible, consider entering your work in research competitions or submitting it for publication in relevant journals. This will showcase your hard work and commitment to the field of psychology on your college applications.

Good luck with your independent study, and remember to enjoy the process of learning and discovery!