Using Controversial Mock Trials in “Psychology and Law” Courses: Suggestions From Participants

Authors

James L. Werth, University of Akron
James Harvey, University of Nebraska–Lincoln
Rebecca McNamara, University of Nebraska–Lincoln
Andrea Svoboda, University of Nebraska–Lincoln
Raina Gulbrandson, University of Nebraska–Lincoln
Jennifer Hendren, University of Nebraska–Lincoln
Tiffany Greedy, University of Nebraska–Lincoln
Christie Leybold, University of Nebraska–Lincoln

Date of this Version

January 2002

Comments

Published in Teaching of Psychology Vol. 29, No. 1, 2002. Copyright 2002. Used by permission.

Abstract

We discuss the use of a mock trial of the controversial Jack Kevorkian euthanasia case in an undergraduate psychology and law course. We provide an overview of the project, student feedback, and recommendations for improving the exercise. Based on feedback from students, we conclude that constructing a trial around a controversial topic with psychosocial issues as the foundation of a course can increase the utility of a mock trial and make the course a better learning experience.