Psychology research volunteer scheme: dare to be empirical

The goal of a university is to produce students who are fully prepared for the world of work when they graduate. However not all graduates go on to work in their specified subject area, so today's students must be more than qualified in a subject area. The graduate attributes are aimed at producing graduates who can adapt to the world of work bringing with them the qualities demanded by employers today. The following paper discusses the different models of curriculum and considers how they fit with an honours degree in psychology. In addition to this a proposal for including hands on research experience for students from their first year is suggested as a means of immersing students in the research process so that they are accomplished researchers when they complete their degree. Students with a strong research philosophy will have the graduate attributes. They will have a comprehensive understanding of their subject area and will be creative in their suggestions. They will be adaptable and able to collaborate with others, able to deal with complex situations and bring about change. Research lies at the heart of psychology and students who are experienced researchers are students who are prepared for work in the 21^st Century.