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An experiment on experimental instructions

Author

Listed:
  • Maria Bigoni

    (Dipartimento di Scienze Economiche, Universita di Bologna)

  • Davide Dragone

    (Dipartimento di Scienze Economiche, Universita di Bologna and Max Plank Institute of Economics, Jena)

Abstract

In this paper we treat instructions as an experimental variable. Using a public good game, we study how the instructions' format affects the participants' understanding of the experiment, their speed of play and their experimental behavior. We show that longer instructions do not significantly improve the subjects' understanding of the experiment; on-screen instructions shorten average decision times with respect to on-paper instructions, and requiring forced inputs reduces waiting times, in particular for the slowest subjects. Consistent with cognitive load theory, we find that short, on-screen instructions which require forced inputs improve on subjects' comprehension and familiarity with the experimental task, and they contribute to reduce both decision and waiting times without affecting the overall pattern of contributions.

Suggested Citation

  • Maria Bigoni & Davide Dragone, 2011. "An experiment on experimental instructions," Jena Economics Research Papers 2011-049, Friedrich-Schiller-University Jena.
    • Handle: RePEc:jrp:jrpwrp:2011-049
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    7. Binmore, Ken, 1999. "Why Experiment in Economics?," Economic Journal, Royal Economic Society, vol. 109(453), pages 16-24, February.
    8. Burks, Stephen V. & Carpenter, Jeffrey P. & Götte, Lorenz & Rustichini, Aldo, 2008. "Cognitive Skills Explain Economic Preferences, Strategic Behavior, and Job Attachment," IZA Discussion Papers 3609, Institute of Labor Economics (IZA).
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    Cited by:

    1. Bigoni, M. & Dragone, D., 2012. "Effective and efficient experimental instructions," Economics Letters, Elsevier, vol. 117(2), pages 460-463.

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Cognitive load theory; Comprehension; Distraction; Experimental instructions;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C72 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Game Theory and Bargaining Theory - - - Noncooperative Games
    • C90 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Design of Experiments - - - General
    • H41 - Public Economics - - Publicly Provided Goods - - - Public Goods

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