Abstract:

The author will discuss the three main theories of humor that psychologists have developed to explain why some things are funny and others are not. Clips from standup comedy routines and situation comedies will be shown in order to demonstrate these theories in action. The author will then discuss how he uses the psychology of humor to teach research design. In so doing, the author believes that his students exhibit a higher level of engagement with and understanding of the material.

The audience will attempt to analyze some comedic material quantitatively and qualitatively, and in so doing, experience how research methods can be taught experientially, using resources that are more enjoyable than typical textbook supplements. These experiences will be connected to constructivist pedagogy.

After this presentation, the author will do a question and answer period, where educators can explore how comedy might be used in their own classrooms.

Keywords:

Psychology, humor, research design.