Lab Orientation Part II F25

Summary

In this lab orientation video, Sarah Ysef, psychology instructor and research coordinator at AUS, explains the research experience component for Psych 101, 102, and 194. Students must choose either research participation or research alternative and stick with that choice for the term. The video details using SONA to sign up for studies or sessions, types of studies (online vs lab-based), completing pre-screen surveys, lab rules, consent procedures, and SONA codes. Penalties for missed studies, incorrect codes, or inattention are highlighted, along with guidance on credit assignment. Overall, the video ensures students understand responsibilities, deadlines, and protocols for earning research experience credits efficiently.

Takeaways

• 😀 Always cancel your study sign-up if you can't attend on time to avoid losing 40% of the assigned credits.
• 😀 In case of an emergency after the cancellation deadline, email the instructor with documentation to request a possible cancellation.
• 😀 Entering the wrong Sona code or your A US ID instead of the Sona code results in a 40% penalty on the total credits for the study.
• 😀 Inattentiveness or completing the same study more than once will incur the same 40% penalty for a no-show.
• 😀 Online studies are conducted on third-party platforms like Qualtrics or Survey Monkey, which are not linked to Sona. Be careful not to repeat studies.
• 😀 If you receive email reminders for an online study that you already completed, ignore them to avoid losing points.
• 😀 Credits may not be assigned immediately after completing a study. You might have to wait up to 7 days for the credit to appear in your account.
• 😀 If you don't see your credits after 7 days, email the instructor to follow up and resolve the issue.
• 😀 It's crucial to regularly check your Sona system to avoid issues like missing studies or errors in the system.
• 😀 The instructor manages a large number of students in the Sona pool, so contact them quickly if you encounter any problems or discrepancies with your studies.

Q & A

What are the two main options for fulfilling research experience credits in PSY 101, 102, or 194?

Students can choose either Research Participation, where they sign up and complete studies, or Research Alternative, where they attend research-related sessions and complete activities outside class hours.

Can a student switch between Research Participation and Research Alternative mid-term?

No, once a student chooses an option, they must stick with it for the entire term. Credits cannot be transferred between the two options.

Which platform must students check regularly to access studies or sessions?

Students must regularly check the Sona platform, which posts both studies for Research Participation and sessions for Research Alternative.

What types of studies are available for Research Participation, and how do they differ?

There are two types: online external studies, which can be completed remotely, and lab-based studies, which require physical attendance at the psychology lab in HSB 1013.

What is the purpose of the pre-screen survey and why is it recommended?

The pre-screen survey determines a student's eligibility for studies. Completing it ensures students can access the studies they qualify for and prevents missing eligible opportunities.

What rules must be followed when attending lab-based studies?

Students must bring a valid physical photo ID, arrive a few minutes early, avoid bringing food or drinks, use the full allocated time, and respect all research assistants.

How does the consent process work for studies?

Participation is voluntary. Students must read the consent form and can withdraw without losing points if uncomfortable, but once consent is given, they should complete the study attentively in one sitting.

What is a Sona code, and why is it important?

A Sona code is a unique identifier used to protect student privacy and confidentiality during studies. Students must provide it when prompted, not their AOS ID.

What penalties exist for not following study rules?

Penalties include a 40% deduction of credits for missing or failing to cancel a study, using the wrong Sona code, showing inattention, or completing the same study more than once.

How long should students wait for credits to be reflected in Sona after completing a study?

Students should wait 7 days after the study's scheduled completion for credits to appear. If credits do not appear, they should email the instructor.

Can Research Alternative students participate in studies meant for Research Participation?

No, students must only participate in the studies or sessions corresponding to their chosen option. Misregistration will result in point deductions.

What is the recommended strategy for completing research credits efficiently?

Students should participate in a combination of online and lab-based studies rather than relying solely on online studies, to ensure they earn the full required 10% of credits.

What should a student do if they face an emergency and cannot cancel a study on time?

The student should email the instructor with documentation of the emergency. The instructor will review the case and may waive the penalty if justified.

How should students handle email reminders for online studies they've already completed?

Students should ignore reminders for studies they have already completed, as taking the same study again can result in a 40% deduction in points.