Maximising the educational and research value of the undergraduate dissertation in psychology

Introduction: The undergraduate research dissertation in psychology is the capstone demonstration of research skills including project planning and design, considering and resolving ethical issues, and the analysis and dissemination of findings. The dissertation can simultaneously represent an opportunity for learning and an opportunity to contribute to the research literature in the student’s chosen area. Statement of the Problem: There has been little consideration of how the pedagogical and research benefits of the dissertation may be simultaneously supported. Literature Review: We review the literature on undergraduate psychology research. Teaching Implications: We outline a range of potential dissertation models using secondary or existing data and team science approaches and describe the benefits for learning and for research, of each. Conclusions: Using existing data and/or adopting a team science approach are viable strategies to enhance the contribution of student research to the literature base and have pedagogical benefits for students.