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Journal of Interdisciplinary Perspectives and Scholarship

Document Type

Article

Abstract

Pilot studies are critical in psychological research, yet they remain costly, time-consuming, and vulnerable to data quality issues that can undermine validity. In this paper, we introduce PsycSim, a web-based platform that leverages Large Language Models (LLMs) to simulate studies by designing procedural steps, defining measures to evaluate responses, and generating synthetic participants. The platform allows researchers to conduct pilot studies and rapidly test different designs, manipulations, samples, and measures at a fraction of the time and cost compared to human-based studies. We provide a practical guide on navigating the platform across four main features: designing and configuring a study procedure, defining custom measures to evaluate text responses, generating and managing samples of AI participants, and organizing and downloading simulation data. By facilitating access to AI simulations and promoting transparency and reproducibility, PsycSim aims to become a valuable tool for social science researchers.

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