The Symons Hall Experimental Laboratory
Interested in using experimental economics to solve current global challenges? Consider joining our Laboratory!
The AREC SHEL is a research group specializing in social science experiments. We operate a 24 station computer lab, located in 0115 Symons Hall.
In addition to research conducted by UMD faculty and students, the SHEL fosters collaboration with other organizations working at the forefront of experimental and behavioral economics research.
The department also offers an advanced class, AREC 815, Applications of Experimental and Behavioral Economics, intended for PhD students in the AREC and economics departments. PhD students from other departments are welcome to enroll provided they have adequate training in economics and math. Specifically, the following are required: a one-year graduate (PhD level) sequence in microeconomics which covers consumer theory, game theory, contract theory, and general equilibrium; and a graduate course in econometrics introducing linear
regression and maximum likelihood estimation. The aim of this course is to train you to design and implement "lab experiments in the field" and to analyze the data generated therein using a range of theoretical and empirical tools.
Neslihan Uler
Laboratory Director
The First-Year Innovation & Research Experience (FIRE)
Are you interested in helping policy makers make better decisions? Are you want to learn how to leverage data science to solve climate change and environmental challenges? Look no further...
The FIRE program is designed to unite research and educational goals through participation in faculty-led innovation and research streams. AREC sponsors the Sustainability Analytics stream, which has three focus areas.
In one, students will collect and analyze natural science and socioeconomic data on biological resources (fish, large mammals, or invasive species) to examine how species characteristics, ecosystems, markets, technology and trade influence the conservation or overexploitation of natural resources.
In the second, students will help administer a survey of Maryland households about installations of renewable energy systems, vehicle ownership and use. Students will use the data collected to address why people adopt renewable energy technologies and what is the impact on CO2 emissions.
The third area focuses on interventions to encourage households and small businesses in Maryland to invest in cost-effective, energy-saving technologies. Students will participate in the collection and mapping of data, and in the delivery and evaluation of energy conservation educational initiatives in Maryland.
Thanicha Ruangmas
Research Educator
