Using the ultimatum game to teach economic theories of relationship maintenance to A–level students

Abstract

HEN TEACHING at A-level, we often present a model of psychology that doesn’t extend beyond the confines of the specification. However, sometimes not only is it possible to provide insight into other areas of psychology, it provides a novel way of understanding a concept included in the specificiation itself. This lesson allowed me to do this while utilising knowledge gained from my undergraduate dissertation – also giving students insight into one of my areas of interest, and the research process. By extending student’s knowledge into other areas of psychology we offer them an opportunity to explore research extending their knowledge into degree level psychology, and outside of the fairly strict paradigm approaches taught at A-level (cognitive, behavioural, etc.). I’ve also enjoyed talking to students about research from a personal perspective. This lets them know that you’ve conducted research, have creatively designed projects, and are aware of the frustrations and limitations of psychology research. A specific example The AQA PSYA3 module offers options, including the study of relationships psychology. As a part of this topic, students are expected to understand models of the formation, maintenance and dissolution of relationships – most will study at least one economic theory of relationships based on a balancing of benefits and costs in dyadic relationships. Such economic theories are used in various areas of psychology, and explanations of them may be assisted by conceptually simple games arising from economics and game theory. Economic games such as the prisoner’s dilemma, tragedy of the commons games and ultimatum game variations offer conceptually simple examples of experimental psychology in action. These can be used to teach concepts to students in other areas, in particular areas of psychology which involve ‘economic theories’. For example, the ultimatum game can be used to teach students two economic theories of relationship formation and maintenance, as discussed below. Because the ultimatum game is a simple one-shot two player game I believe it holds potential to be used to help explain a range of economic theories. While for group or organisational level economic theories other games or adaptations might be appropriate, the simplicity of the ultimatum game in dealing with one-on-one exchanges provides a useful insight for students into those theories, and also into the broader academic setting and research programme.