Reframing Psychological Research Methods Courses as Tools for Social Justice Education

Abstract

Introduction APA’s 2017 Multicultural Guidelines ask teachers to integrate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) across the psychology curriculum. Statement of the Problem However, there are few resources outlining best practices for DEI instruction outside of diversity/multicultural courses. Moreover, instructors for skill-based courses such as Psychological Research Methods may view DEI as beyond their scope. Literature Review Building on the agentive pedagogical theories of Freire, Kegan and Stetsenko, I aim to outline the importance of integrating DEI into research methods courses and identify seven accessible ways in which to do so. Teaching Implications Teachers will find a comprehensive review of the theory and research related to seven DEI teaching practices: (1) Diverse Representation/Visibility, (2) Modeling Inclusive Language/Practices, (3) Addressing Social Issues and Inequities, (4) Broadening the Applied Topical Scope, (5) Meaning-Making, (6) Teaching from a Strengths-Based Perspective, and (7) Promoting Students’ Agency. Conclusion Diversity, equity, and inclusion research methods courses can provide students with a clear model of inclusive practices, opportunities to develop sociorelational skills, and the tools to agentively contribute to social justice research.