| By: |
Imai, Taisuke;
Toussaert, Séverine;
Baillon, Aurélien;
Dreber, Anna;
Ertaç, Seda;
Johannesson, Magnus;
Neyse, Levent;
Villeval, Marie Claire |
| Abstract: |
The open science movement has gained significant momentum over the past
decade, with pre-registration and the use of pre-analysis plans being central
to ongoing debates. Combining observational evidence on trends in adoption
with survey data from 519 researchers, this study examines the adoption of
pre-registration (potentially but not necessarily including pre-analysis
plans) in experimental economics. Pooling statistics from 19 leading journals
published between 2017 and 2023, we observe that the number of papers
containing a pre-registration grew from seven per year to 190 per year. Our
findings indicate that pre-registration has now become mainstream in
experimental economics, with two-thirds of respondents expressing favorable
views and 86% having pre-registered at least one study. However, opinions are
divided on the scope and comprehensiveness of pre-registration, highlighting
the need for clearer guidelines. Researchers assign a credibility premium to
pre-registered tests, although the exact channels remain to be understood. Our
results suggest growing support for open science practices among experimental
economists, with demand for professional associations to guide researchers and
reviewers on best practices for pre-registration and other open science
initiatives. |
| Keywords: |
pre-registration, pre-analysis plans, experimental economics, open science |
| JEL: |
A14 C12 C18 C80 C90 I23 |
| Date: |
2025 |
| URL: |
https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:zbw:i4rdps:220 |