RESEARCH FOR LEARNING

Introduction:
Research is the basis of knowledge. In this paper, we will elaborate on how to incorporate research as a learning tool. The general objective of the subject in which this experience took place, "Fundamentals of Human Behavior", is to ensure that students are able to obtain a general view of Psychology as a discipline and as a profession, as well as to try to understand human behavior through the application of scientific methods and knowledge about the basic psychological processes. In it, scientific methodology is considered especially relevant as a means to advance in knowledge, so that the main research methods in psychology and social sciences are explained, and the learning and internalization of psychological concepts and theories is promoted through the implementation of small investigations in which the students themselves are active agents.

Didactic methodologies used:
One of the main competencies to be acquired is to be able to ask questions in relation to the bases of human behavior and generate small research designs that could answer those questions. These research projects carried out in the classroom try to answer different questions related to the subject content at the time they serve as an exemplification of theoretical concepts. It is relevant to emphasize that it is not only the teacher who proposes the research questions but also the students themselves who propose activities to the rest of the classroom. A simple protocol of investigation is elaborated explaining the objectives, methodology, design, procedure, variables, and results. The students participate either as researchers or as experimental subjects.

Results:
Throughout the last years, 24 studies have been carried out for the learning of different psychological concepts. Some of them have been done in different academic courses for their interest and acceptance.

The most relevant are here presented:
a) divided attention and mental flexibility through Trail Making Test (TMT), differences according to sociodemographic variables;
b) Analysis of the existence of biological rhythms and implications in behavior, measuring their alert level for 48 hours;
c) Sleep quality and performance. Use of the Pittsburgh Questionnaire;
d) Mechanisms of memory, students' experimentation in the functioning of memory and the process of remembering and forgetting.

Conclusions:
Great satisfaction reported by the students and high achievement of meaningful learning, since the student learns about the foundations of human behavior by framing it in a real context, which will also be their field of work in the near future.- Acquisition of key concepts and psychological developments through the first-hand experience.- Learning of different research methodologies in the scientific study of behavior - Development of positive, proactive, critical and analytical attitude in research.