Editorial PLAT 22(2) 2023

Abstract

We are currently living in unsettled, turbulent times. The important role of science in general and particularly psychology in modern society is becoming increasingly evident considering current events and developments. The pandemic and its profound, long-term consequences in all areas of life, the growing threat of climate change, or the transformation of political processes through digitalization are just a few very recent examples. We at Psychology Learning and Teaching (PLAT) are also concerned with the role of psychology in society and have several upcoming issues that explicitly address these important topics. It is a particularly significant task and challenge to use our expertise regarding the teaching and learning of psychology to initiate and support positive societal developments. We are currently working on special issues including the target article “Indoctrination in Introduction to Psychology” by Dr. Jared Bartels. The article raises the issue of a potential liberal bias in how research is presented in psychology textbooks and beyond. A group of international colleagues with extensive expertise in this field has agreed to provide comments on the issue based on this article. We are very happy to revive this format and are excited to see the final result. We would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has contributed, especially Dr. Bartels for initiating this issue. Furthermore, two of our former associate editors, Susan Nolan and Jacky Cranney, continue their outstanding commitment to PLAT. Together with Luciana de Souza (Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil) and Julie Hulme (Nottingham Trent University, UK), they form the team of guest editors of another upcoming Special Issue. The topic “Centering Psychological Literacy in Undergraduate Psychology Education Internationally” seems more relevant today than ever before. Finally, we would like to emphasize that we are always happy to receive your ideas and suggestions for target articles or Special Issues. There are countless important topics that deserve our concentrated attention. In our experience, these formats offer an ideal framework for a thematically focused, fruitful, and valuable exchange on one specific topic about the teaching and learning of psychology. So, do not hesitate and share your suggestions with us. More detailed information on submitting a target article or a proposal for a Special Issue can be found in our submission guidelines on the PLAT website: https://journals.sagepub.com/authorinstructions/PLJ#ArticleTypes.