APF/APA TOPSS Scholars Competition

The APA Teachers of Psychology in Secondary Schools (TOPSS) is proud to announce the question for the seventh annual American Psychological Foundation (APF)/APA TOPSS Scholars Competition. There will be three winners, each of whom will receive a $1,000 scholarship. TOPSS is extremely grateful to the American Psychological Foundation (APF) for contributing funds to support this wonderful opportunity for the winners in 2005. Submissions must be postmarked by February 10, 2006.

APF/APA TOPSS Scholar Essay Question

2006

Developmental psychologists often find links between childhood influences and adult patterns of thought and behavior. These connections have been found in many areas including social, emotional and cognitive development, as well as personality traits. Imagine you are a developmental psychologist investigating a potential question. In order to do your own research you must be knowledgeable about prior research and studies in your area of interest.

Part 1
Conduct a review of the existing literature that has explored the connection between early childhood and adulthood. Potential topics include, but are not limited to: intelligence, attachment, temperament, locus of control, optimism, academic achievement, language development, psychopathology, resilience, and parenting styles. Provide a review of the literature using a minimum of five print-based sources. The list of references must be formatted consistent with (5th edition) of APA style. Limited assistance for formatting using this style can be found at the following web site: http://www.apastyle.org/previoustips.html. Summarize the findings for the area you chose.

Part 2
Based on the literature you have reviewed, develop a research proposal that examines the connection between early childhood and adulthood. Include your hypothesis and methodology for carrying out the study. Be sure to include operational definitions, ethical concerns and potential flaws.

To compete in the contest, a student must answer both parts of the question. Winners will be selected on the basis of a demonstrated ability to (1) complete a critical analysis and synthesis of empirical research and (2) generate a quality research proposal.

Psychology faculty at the college level will serve as judges.

Rules

Eligibility
Entrants must be high school students.
Entrants must have been enrolled or be presently enrolled in a high school psychology course.

The Paper
Papers must be typed or word-processed.
Papers must be no more than 3,000 words in length. Papers exceeding this length will be disqualified.
Papers must be in APA style.
Papers must be submitted in triplicate.
Papers must each be bound ( staple, binder or paper clip ).
Papers that are word-processed should include a copy of the entry on a labeled computer disk (must be a standard 1.44mb disk or standard CD).
The word-processing program must be identified.
Papers must include an abstract, not to exceed 120 words.

No identifying information should be included in the body of the essay (i.e., students should not list their name as a running head or mentioning school name in body of paper in any place EXCEPT the cover page). Papers not following this rule will be disqualified.

The Procedure

No more than TEN papers per school may be submitted.

All entries must include a cover sheet with the following information:
-Student's name
-Student's year in school (e.g., junior, senior)
-Name, address, phone number, and e-mail address of the TOPSS sponsor
-Student's school name, address, phone number, and e-mail address

Applicants should submit a self-addressed, stamped envelope along with essay submission so that Scoring Rubric may be returned.

Send the paper to:

TOPSS Scholar Competition
c/o Emily Leary, Education Directorate
American Psychological Association
750 First Street, N.E.
Washington, DC 20002-4242

• Clear identification of the chosen topic and the potential connection between early childhood and adulthood
• Comprehensive review of the topic using a minimum of five print-based sources
• Synthesis of research articles rather than a summary of individual articles
• Explanation about how the research would contribute to advancement of scientific knowledge
• Accurate use of APA style (i.e., language usage, headings, and citations)

Part 2: Research Proposal (10 points per item) – A good proposal will include a(n):

• Clear articulation of the research question, hypothesis, and variables
• Clear and thorough description of a method that would be appropriate to investigate the research question
• Appropriate use of various design elements such as sampling, controls, and establishing the reliability and validity of instruments
• Description of how the study would safeguard the rights of the participants that meets APA Ethical Guidelines