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Browser-Based Lab Studies. Gary McClelland NSF ATI Workshop California State—Fullerton 17-20 January 2002. Why Browsers in the Lab?. Sophisticated Computer Control Javascript, Java, Flash Randomization tools Response-dependent orders, stimuli Visual, graphic, animated stimuli
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Browser-Based Lab Studies Gary McClelland NSF ATI Workshop California State—Fullerton 17-20 January 2002
Why Browsers in the Lab? • Sophisticated Computer Control • Javascript, Java, Flash • Randomization tools • Response-dependent orders, stimuli • Visual, graphic, animated stimuli • photographs, movies, applets
Why Browsers in the Lab? • Interactivity for Responses • mouse, keys, Buttons, Scrollbars, ChoiceLists, CheckBox, TextField, RadioButtons • Electronic recording of data • avoid data entry errors • immediate feedback to participants
Why Browsers in the Lab? • Necessary software is FREE • browsers, javascript, Java SDK • Lots of computer labs on campus • Participant interest and motivation • “more scientific” • cf. paper and pencil questionnaires • visually interesting
Browsers with Controlled Samples • Remote administration to dispersed sample • Longitudinal data collection • daily diaries, cf. PDA or pager studies • Tailored questionnaires and stimuli • a la adaptive testing
Advice • Avoid “Rolodex” Phenomenon • Worry about readability • margins, fonts, colors, backgrounds • Keep it simple • Don’t use all the bells & whistles • Esthetics matter