Conducting Real-Time Interactive Experiments on Prolific:A Guide for Researchers

Abstract

We summarize our experience and lessons learned conducting a public goods game online with a U.S. sample via Prolific (N=2,116). Our study involved group formation and real-time interaction among participants and was programmed using oTree. We provide insights and recommendations for researchers considering conducting online experiments with simultaneous decision-making (dyadic studies). We cover Prolific’s sampling speeds, feasibility collecting a nationally representative sample, group formation and wait pages, hosting, and server loads. We also provide recommendations for Prolific and the developers of oTree.

Keywords: Dyadic study, experimental economics, cooperation, Prolific, oTree, online experiment, threshold public goods game