Java experiments for introductory cognitive psychology courses

Interactive on-line experiments provide a unique and useful method for comm unicating material to students that is otherwise cumbersome and often confu sing. The Java programming language is particularly suited for Internet-bas ed programming applications of this sort because it bypasses many technical issues, including resource availability, security, and cross-platform comp atibility. In most cases, topics appropriate to this medium of presentation should (1) not be easily demonstrated by other means, (2) represent an imp ortant finding in the field, and (3) be robust with respect to variations i n both participants and equipment. The present paper outlines the integrati on of interactive experiments into an introductory cognitive psychology cla ssroom, describing several experiments currently available on the World-Wid e Web (WWW). Evaluation of the technical aspects of the technology as well as expansion of the format to other courses is discussed.