Psychology Class Project
Field Work: School Visit
Pose as a new student at one of the local area schools for one day.
After prearranging with Administrators from WHS and the Host School, “enroll” as a new student and spend the day attending classes, lunch and visiting in the halls.
Observe and document all of (but not limited to) the following Social Psychology-related variables:
Treatment, interaction with, and reactions from other students and staff
o School “climate“
o Cliques, Subcultures
o Social stratification
o Prejudice, Bias, Discrimination
o Non-verbal communication
o Interpersonal relations (student-student, student-staff)
o Values and norms, etc.
Collect data and prepare a report identifying the day in journalized format, followed by an in-depth analysis of
the results.
This is a big undertaking, needing courage, professionalism, confidentiality and follow-through.
It may also be the most enjoyable and rewarding psychology project available.
Field Work projects will be assessed for extra credit value according to:
Depth of involvement
Initiative
Conduct at host institution
Completeness/timeliness
Depth
Scope and relevance of analysis
Final paper quality and organization
The following items are required before visiting:
Initial briefing with Mr. Nichols
Prepare Plan-of-Action: top six school choices, and any additional variables for observation.
o School Choice requirements/exceptions:
Further, plan to visit schools where you do not know any staff or students.
2nd meeting with Mr. Nichols: review Plan-of-Action, Process and Protocol.
1st meeting with Principal: review Plan-of-Action, Process and Protocol.
2nd meeting with Principal: conduct Guided Call to Host Administrator.
Complete a Signed Prearranged Absence form.
o Signed by parent/guardian and all teachers/classes affected that day.
o Please note: although this will be an excused absence, you will be expected to complete all work .
Make Visit.Psychology
Field Work: School Visit part II
Upon return: complete debrief and provide one copy each to Principal, Host Administrator and your teacher.
The following items are required before receiving any credit:
o Signed (by Host Attendance Office) arrival time and exit time.
o Signed documentation of exit meeting with Host Administrator.
o Confirmation of a formal ‘Thank You’ to Host Administrator and Student Escort.
o Confirmation of a Sent copies of paper to Principal and to the Host Administrator.
Please remember, as a visitor, you will represent your school and your community. Maintain respect for your
host school’s student body, staff and property.
Thank you for participating,
Mr. Nichols