Teaching Students about Experimental Research Through the Mind, Brain, and Behavior Laboratory’s Internship Program

The laboratory of Mind, Brain and Behavior (MBB) is an experimental research-focused laboratory under the supervision of Gadjah Mada University’s Faculty of Psychology. MBB Lab researches about human behavior in regards to several aspects. They research overt behavior to covert mental processes, and also neural mechanisms underlying human behavior. MBB Lab opened spots for undergrad and postgrad students to do internships, as it is a good opportunity for students interested in learning more about experimental research.

The registration opened on the day of the Open House for Scientific Groups and Supporting Units, in the end of August. 105 students applied, but after rigorous selection, only 30 could be admitted. This internship will give undergrads intensive training for 8 semesters, and 4 semesters for postgrads.

The 30 students attended the Internship Orientation on Friday, October 26, 2018. They were given orientation on the organizational structure, realm of measurement, training and supervision schedules, and also other important matters.

The 30 interns were grouped into 6 smaller groups. One group consists of 6 interns and 1 supervisor, who is a senior in the lab. The grouping was done in accordance to similarities of each member’s characteristics, so it is expected that group members can mesh and work together well. Each group will be trained about experimental research methods and also behavioral, physiological, and neural measurement to use for understanding humans behavior mechanisms. At the end of the internship period, every intern will have to present their research in international and/or national conferences.

According to Fadhillathif Farras Arifin, he decided to intern in the lab because he really wants to learn about experimental research, and he thinks that interning in the lab is a good platform for him to present at international conferences. He wants to research and present issues that aren’t quite talked about yet, and hopefully interning here will help him in studying those things. (UGM Psychology PR/Jehna)