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For IB Psychology teachers, one of the biggest challenges is selecting the right studies to teach. 

With such a vast body of research available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. 

However, by focusing on the guidance below, you can help your students navigate this process and even empower them to find studies that interest them—an essential skill for university and beyond.

Encourage Independent Research

For higher-ability students or those in their second IB year, consider giving them the opportunity to find their own studies. 

While some students may initially need guidance, the ultimate goal is for all students to develop the confidence and skills to research independently. 

This approach fosters curiosity and critical thinking while allowing them to explore topics that resonate with their interests.

When guiding students toward studies, consider using examples you know work well, especially if they’re struggling. 

Over time, encourage them to find their own studies using reliable academic platforms like Google Scholar or JSTOR. 

If your school has access to paid journal subscriptions, liaise with your librarian to unlock even more resources.

Understand the Syllabus Inside Out

When teachers need to control the studies taught, having secure knowledge of the IB syllabus is vital. 

For Papers 1 and 2, each topic and subtopic is clearly outlined. 

A study is appropriate if it directly or indirectly addresses the topic or subtopic.

For example, Maguire et al. (2000) is often used to discuss localisation of function. 

Although the link might seem tenuous at first, with skilled guidance, students can frame their discussions to link the study's findings to localisation in the brain. 

This highlights the importance of teaching students how to tailor their write-ups to connect the study to the relevant topic or subtopic effectively.

Focus on Relevance, Diversity, and Recency

While classical studies by the likes of Loftus and Palmer (1974) or Bandura et al. (1961) remain valuable, prioritising contemporary research ensures your students engage with current understandings of human behaviour. 

Newer studies often introduce innovative methods or fresh perspectives, allowing students to stand out in their essays and exams. 

Encourage diversity in the studies chosen, too. Selecting research by women, ethnic minorities, and scholars from non-Western parts of the world broadens students’ understanding of cultural and gender relativism. 

By doing so, we as teachers can break away from relying solely on textbook-recognised studies and embrace research that reflects the diversity of the human experience.

Teach a Consistent Study Framework

To help students structure their study descriptions, teach them to include four sections:

Aim: What was the study trying to investigate?

Method: Who participated, and what procedures were followed?

Results: What were the findings?

Conclusion: What do the results tell us about the topic or subtopic?

Reinforcing this structure from the beginning makes it second nature, ensuring students meet expectations in their written responses.

Final Thoughts

The right studies inspire curiosity, critical thinking, and independence. 

By encouraging students to explore research that speaks to them, you’re equipping them with skills that extend far beyond the IB course. 

And remember, next week is a new opportunity to share the joy of discovery with your class—embrace it with positivity and enthusiasm!

Until next time, have a great week,

Thes

Future articles in this series:

• How scientific should the Biological Approach be?
• The 'Discuss' command term.
• Tip and tricks to ensure students focus on the question.