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Instructions

Author

Listed:
  • David J. Freeman

    (Simon Fraser University)

  • Erik O. Kimbrough

    (Simon Fraser University)

  • Garrett M. Petersen

    (Simon Fraser University)

  • Hanh T. Tong

    (Simon Fraser University)

Abstract

A meta-analysis of instruction delivery and reinforcement methods in recent laboratory experiments reveals a wide and inconsistently-reported variety of practices and limited research evaluating their effectiveness. Thus we experimentally compare how methods of delivering and reinforcing experiment instructions impact subjects’ understanding. We report a one-shot individual decision task in which misunderstanding can be unambiguously identified in behavior and find that misunderstanding is prevalent in our control treatment which uses relatively standard experimental instructions. We find combinations of reinforcement methods that can eliminate half of subjects’ misunderstanding. Providing paper instructions is among the most effective of such methods.

Suggested Citation

  • David J. Freeman & Erik O. Kimbrough & Garrett M. Petersen & Hanh T. Tong, 2017. "Instructions," Discussion Papers dp17-12, Department of Economics, Simon Fraser University.
    • Handle: RePEc:sfu:sfudps:dp17-12
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

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    2. Merav Badash & Efrat Harel & Rivi Carmel & Tina Waldman, 2020. "Beliefs versus Declared Practices of English as a Foreign Language (EFL) Teachers Regarding Teaching Grammar," World Journal of English Language, Sciedu Press, vol. 10(1), pages 1-49, March.
    3. Taylor Jaworski & Bart J. Wilson, 2013. "Go West Young Man: Self‐Selection and Endogenous Property Rights," Southern Economic Journal, John Wiley & Sons, vol. 79(4), pages 886-904, April.

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    JEL classification:

    • C91 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Design of Experiments - - - Laboratory, Individual Behavior

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