The mind as black box: A simulation of theory building in psychology

This activity gives students a collaborative, hands-on experience in theory building. Using the metaphor "the mind is a black box," students work toge ther in small groups to discover what is inside a sealed, black, plastic bo x. In all, 63 undergraduate and 11 graduate students evaluated the activity . Students reported that they enjoyed the activity and that it helped them learn more about the development of scientific theories; the existence of c onflicting theories; and the value of logical thinking, imagination, and so cial collaboration in the process of scientific investigation.