Research Methods with a Smile: A Gender Difference Exercise that Teaches Methodology

In this activity, I provide a way to collect data on a gender difference—smiling in yearbook photos—without leaving the classroom. I also provide an effective procedure for reviewing or introducing a number of methodological concepts. Two sections of Psychology of Gender students ( N = 45) rated the activity high on achievement of purpose and enjoyability, and 95% recommended using the exercise in future classes.