A GROUP of A-level pupils took part in an exciting opportunity to conduct psychological experiments as part of a new university project.
Sixth formers from South Wilts Grammar School travelled to Winchester University for the Young Researcher Programme with the aim of training them on how to conduct ethical and effective research.
Five year 12 pupils studying psychology conducted two studies.
The first exercise involved asking fellow students to watch a video in which a bag theft takes place in a crowd.
Researchers experimented with the attention participants gave to the video and compared how noticeable the theft was to demonstrate everyday attention to crime-like activities.
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Then, the group assessed the sources of young people's mental health knowledge by comparing information received in schools versus that from social media.
The pupils returned to Winchester University to learn data analysis and wrote up their findings in a scientific report which will feature in at least three journal publications.
Teacher Charlotte Briton, who has been at SWGS for nine years, explained how A-level psychology is entirely exam-based so this opportunity gave pupils a chance to learn the practical side of the subject.
She said: "Taking part in this initiative gives students real experience in how science works and allows them insight into 'behind the scenes' of the psychological research that we cover in class.
"We were delighted to work with Winchester University and look forward to working with them again."
The young researchers altered parts of the experiments which were pitched to them by lecturers Dr Liam Satchell, Dr Amy Warhurst and Dr Kirsty Ross.
Pippa Redfern said the group included less common mental health disorders in the literacy experiment to obtain a wider result.
She said: "It was a really interesting and enriching experience. Learning how to do proper report writing is something that is an important skill to have."
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Becca Coombes said the opportunity inspired her to apply to study psychology at Winchester University as she appreciates the advantage it's given her.
"It's quite difficult to get work experience in psychology because of confidentiality so it's a really great thing to put on your personal statement," she added.
The group will go on to present their findings to their entire year 13 cohort later this year.
Dr Satchell believed the programme gave students a good grounding in the sort of research and knowledge generation they would be expected to do at university.
“Training young people in thinking critically, ethically, and technically with data and scientific research is good for their wider personal development as well as their future careers,” he said.
The Young Researcher Programme will open to more schools in 2024.
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