Aachen, Germany

Introduction to Lab and VR Experiments

This course provides students with an overview of and experience with experimental research methods to design and conduct an economic experiment in the lab, or in an immersive virtual environment. The course will cover topics as defining a research question, setting up the research hypothesis and the corresponding experimental design, how to plan and conduct experimental sessions, and some basic data analysis methods. The course also provides exposure to some examples of experimental software. The students will examine conventions for ensuring that experiments are properly designed, and tips for preparing experimental research for publication. The course also provides exposure to some examples of z-Tree programs, a standard software to code experimental treatments. Additionally, the course introduces participants to the newly emerging experiments in virtual reality. They will learn the potential of this experimental method for behavioral research. During a visit to the RWTH Aachen VR lab, participants will experience some demos in immersive virtual environments. They will learn the advantages of VR experiments and discuss potential issues as well.

Course leader

Prof. Dr. Özgür Gürerk

Target group

Post-Docs, PhD & master Students

Credits info

5 EC
The workload for this course will consist of 30 hours of lecturing, discussion and exercise work and 120 hours additional individual preparation. This course equals 5 credit points.

Fee info

EUR 750: Participants have to pay €750 for one weekly course and another €600 for any additional intensive course they would like to visit. Please book the courses separately, we will take additionally booked courses into account when issuing your invoice.