On Friday, 3rd July, we travelled with Mrs Maywood to Cardiff University to take part in the Big Psychology Challenge 2026. Our contributions to the challenge, which we had made in advance, were a two-minute video and an A0 poster, answering the question 'How can understanding the human mind help tackle climate change?'
We addressed a range of issues, such as pseudo-inefficiency, conformity, obedience, social support, tackling negative habits, and what makes climate activists different.
After a very early start, and four trains, we made it to Cardiff University. The day began with mind games, a chance to explore what was on offer, and an introductory lecture. We were then taken to their brain imaging centre, where we engaged in a range of activities. We had talks from postdoctoral psychologists on their current research projects, such as the role of curiosity in learning, and how brain scanners are used to track brain activity. We engaged in interactive activities, such as matching the animals to their brains. We got to visit a decoy MRI scanner, and were told all about their functions, along with being educated about MEG brain scans. We also received a talk from postdoctoral psychologists on their research into the brain development of infants, and were able to try on the equipment they use to conduct research, such as a portable eye tracking device.
After lunch, we talked as a group to three separate judges, explaining the content on our poster and answering their questions. The judges weren’t afraid to challenge our points, to help us find our passion and strengthen our argument. Finally, we had a talk from multiple psychologists from various different fields including clinical psychology, forensic psychology, statistical research, and a postgraduate student, enabling us to hear a range of first-hand experiences.
Overall, this was a fantastic experience which gave us the opportunity to explore the variety within the field of psychology, to find our passion for the subject, and to develop a range of skills which we will take forward with us. We are so grateful to Mrs Maywood, who organised the trip, and supported us throughout the whole process, and we highly recommend this opportunity to future A Level Psychologists!
Evie D, Chloe S, Isla S and Amelie F, L6Y