THE STUDY OF BIOBEHAVIORAL RHYTHMS IN A PSYCHOLOGY LABORATORY COURSE

Eighteen students participated in an experiential exercise on circadia n rhythms as part of the laboratory component of a Psychology course. Participants measured their heart rare, blood pressure, mood, alertnes s, and visuomotor-cognitive performance. Measures showed significant c ircadian variation; they were strongly correlated and peaked at differ ent times, providing support for a multioscillatory view of circadian control. Evaluation indicated students found this laboratory interesti ng, personally relevant, and helpful in understanding the importance o f rhythms.