Running Commentary

Teaching high school students about animal research

By Raymond D. Fowler, PhD
APA Chief Executive Officer

Each year, hundreds of thousands of students take introductory psychology classes in high schools and colleges across the country. For many of these students, their first course in psychology may well be their only exposure to the discipline and one that forms a lasting impression of the field. For others, the intro course just might spark an interest in what could become a rewarding career. It is very important, therefore, that introductory psychology courses at the high school and college level be taught well and that teachers have access to teaching materials based on accurate, up-to-date and well-balanced information.

In recent years, the APA Committee on Animal Research (CARE), has become increasingly concerned about growing efforts among some animal rights organizations to persuade students in secondary schools that psychological research involving animals is inappropriate. CARE is concerned that students may form negative opinions about psychological research with animals based on a very narrow and sometimes inaccurate viewpoint about its purpose and value.

A video for introductory psychology

In an effort to present introductory psychology students with more balanced and accurate information, CARE is developing a series of videos on the value and importance of animal research in psychology. Working with the Teachers of Psychology in the Secondary Schools (TOPSS) and the APA Office of Public Communications, this year CARE developed and distributed its first video for introductory psychology, "Perception and Action: The Contributions and Importance of Nonhuman Animal Research in Psychology."

"Perception and Action" focuses on how studies of similarities and differences in sensation and perception across people and other animals advances our understanding of these vital sensory processes. It features interviews with several behavioral researchers who work with hamsters, pigeons and dolphins and who represent not only comparative psychology, but also developmental cognitive neuropsychology and human factors. The psychologists discuss basic research questions and how research findings have real-life applications that are sometimes unanticipated. For example, nearly 20 years after research on vision in hamsters was conducted, it was found to have applications to night vision in humans and the reduction of motor vehicle accidents at night.

In addition to introducing research methods and addressing why it is important to study perception, the video also demonstrates the historical and continuing importance of animal use in diverse basic and applied areas of psychological science. And it shows how behavioral research using animals is conducted in the context of ethical and regulatory animal welfare guidelines and laws.

"Perception and Action," which was funded by the Council of Representatives, received a very positive response when it was shown during the council meeting during APA?s Annual Convention in August. Since then, complimentary copies have been sent to 1,400 teachers who are members of TOPSS nationwide. Each video includes a teacher?s guide with interpretive comments on the research, including factors that determine the choice of species in a study and how research protocols are monitored at the institutional level. The guide also includes sources of additional information including articles and web sites, a glossary, and additional resources on animal research laws, regulations and guidelines.

Asking for feedback

The video sent to TOPSS members also included a survey asking for comments and suggestions on the usefulness of the video in the classroom. So far, the response from teachers and students has been positive. Some teachers noted that the video stimulated discussions about animal research in general and not just about perception and asked for more information on the ethical basis of research with nonhuman subjects. This feedback will be used when making future videos in the series. The next video will be on the importance of animal research in the area of psychopharmacology.

"Perception and Action" is $24.95, plus shipping and handling. Because resources in many school districts are limited, CARE was careful to try to keep costs as low as possible. Even so, it may be difficult for some schools to purchase the video. If you are interested in sponsoring a school or school district in your community, you might consider purchasing a video and donating it to your school district or community college. Your $25 would be an excellent investment in the future of psychology? students who want to learn more about the field.