What is Family Academy?
Family Academy includes people in Whatcom County who have agreed to be contacted with invitations to participate in research studies. The organization has two main purposes:
- To assist students and professors in recruiting individuals for research projects.
- To educate and inform members about topics of interest in our community.
As part of the second goal, Family Academy has an ongoing lecture series connecting scholars at WWU with families and community members in Bellingham. The mission is to engage the community in innovative discussions about topics surrounding parenting, child development, and education.
What types of studies might I participate in?
WWU Psychology professors and students study a wide variety of topics related to child and family development, such as preschool children’s and adolescents’ understanding of themselves and others, and family dynamics and romantic relationships. The types of studies you may be invited to participate in will vary, but you can get a sense of the kinds of projects that are currently available by reading more about our faculty members on the “People” tab.
Opportunities, not Obligations.
Joining simply means that you may be contacted about participating in WWU studies. You choose which specific projects you would like to participate in. There are no obligations and you are free to decline to participate without affecting your relationship with WWU.
What are the benefits to joining Family Academy?
By joining Family Academy, you will support education and knowledge development at WWU, as well as learning more about psychological research relevant to yourself and your family. Family Academy members will also receive newsletters with updates on important findings from studies at WWU.
How to join?
Sign up online here.
If you have questions or would like more information, please send us an email at Family.Academy@wwu.edu.
What else should I know?
Members of the Psychology Department at WWU are dedicated to high quality education and research within our community. We are committee to gathering and applying information that will benefit our community, children, and families. We greatly appreciate your help and support!