What is this study about?

We need groups of 3 to participate together in this experiment. In order to participate, you need to find 2 friends to play with you. In this study, you will be asked to drill wells to find the most oil. In some instances, you will be able to see information from your fellow players and be able to use their information to improve your hunt for the most oil.

What is the problem being solved by this study?

What sets human beings apart is our ability to solve complex problems - whether we're building a machine that can do math, isolating diseases, or traveling to space. However, we rarely solve problems alone. We do it everyday with our family, friends, coworkers, neighbors, and political parties. We organize and some ways of organizing are better at solving some problems than others. In this line of research, we're trying to understand how the ways we connect with one another affect how well we solve problems. In this particular study, we want to understand how the structure of our relationships affects how we make decisions about whether explore for new solutions or exploit known solutions.

How might research in this area change society?

Communication technologies have revolutionized our lives. Facebook, Twitter, Slack, and other social networks offer us new ways to connect, communicate, and commune. Each makes different decisions about who connects with whom. This study will help scientists understand the impact of these choices by helping us understand the trade-offs in having more or less people connected to one another.

Who is eligible to participate?

Anyone over the age of 18 may participate. However, this study requires at least 3 participants. In order to participate, you need to recruit 4 more friends. If you participate with others, please do not look at one another's screen or the data will not be usable.

How can my friends and I participate together?

You and your friends must click the "Play" button on your respective devices within the 2 minute time window. The study starts as soon as there are three participants waiting.