What is policy simulation?

Policy Simulation uses emerging computer technologies to create interactive tools that help people understand the consequences of alternative policies.  We use computer simulation models, geographic information systems (GIS) and virtual reality tools to help policy makers better understand and visualize the consequences of alternative policy actions.

Directions to the policy simulation complex?

From the North: Take Interstate 95 South to Exit 9 (Route 4 South). Follow Route 4 until it merges and becomes Route 1 South. Continue on Route 1 South to Route 138 West. Travel four miles on Route 138 West. The entrance to the URI Campus is on the Right. Take Upper Collge Road all the way to the end then turn left onto Flagg road, take your first left onto Greenhouse road, the Kingston Coastal Institute will be on your right.

From the South: Take Interstate 95 North to Exit 3A (Route 138 East). Follow for seven miles. The entrance to URI Campus is on the left. Take Upper Collge Road all the way to the end then turn left onto Flagg road, take your first left onto Greenhouse road, the Kingston Coastal Institute will be on your right.

How to Contact us at the policy simulation complex?

Dr. James J. Opaluch, Professor and Director of the Policy Simulation Laboratory.

Tel: (401) 874-4590

E-mail: JimO@uri.edu

Dr. Christopher M. Anderson, Assistant Professor of Experimental Economics.

Tel: (401) 874-4587

E-mail: cma@uri.edu

How to participate in experiments?

The Policy Simulation Laboratory is assembling an e-mail list of University of Rhode Island students (graduate and undergraduate) who are interested in participating in experiments. You will be paid, in cash, for your participation. Although the amount of payment varies with the experiment and the decisions you make, past participants have been pleased with their earnings.

When we run an experiment, people on the e-mail list will be invited to participate.

Typically 24 to 48 hours before an experiment, we will send out an e-mail message indicating the time, place and expected duration (typically 1 to 3 hours) of the experiment to be run and asking people available and interested in participating to reply. The slots for the experiment will be filled on a first come, first served basis. We will confirm your reply and successful registration.

If you would like to be placed on the list to be notified when we are running an experiment and seeking subjects, please
follow this link and fill up the form with your name and preferred e-mail address.