> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://manymanys.gitbook.io/mm1-lab-manual/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://manymanys.gitbook.io/mm1-lab-manual/method/testing-environment.md).

# Testing environment

Subjects are tested in a designated testing environment for the duration of the experiment (see Figure 1 below). The testing environment is divided into a starting zone and a reward zone. The starting zone is the fixed location in the testing environment where the subject is placed at the beginning of the experiment. The reward zone is the area within the testing environment where the stimuli are presented and the reward delivered to the subject (i.e., either left or right; see Stimuli section below).

For non-human animals, this should be a familiar space (which should be determined by the experimenter and allow subjects to interact comfortably with the experimental setup)—including controlled laboratory settings—where distractions can be minimized. For human participants, testing occurs in a controlled laboratory setting or designated testing area. The dimensions and configuration of the testing environment can vary depending on the specific testing site, species, and practical constraints, with all specifications reported to the MM1 Leadership Team. Lighting conditions should be adjusted to the species’ day-night activity cycle (e.g., diurnal vs. nocturnal) but ensure that both the stimuli and the subject’s actions are clearly visible in the video recordings.

Where possible, subjects are tested individually rather than in groups. For human participants, individual testing is standard. For non-human animals, if individual testing is not possible for logistical reasons, then efforts should be made to ensure that the subject does not have access to social information regarding the test from conspecifics. This could be achieved through visually isolating the subject or by using a barrier (see below) to keep conspecifics at a distance and prevent them from acting as demonstrators. In cases where a non-human subject cannot be tested alone and requires a companion for ethical or welfare reasons, the companion should not participate in the study and should be positioned to minimize visual access to the testing apparatus and stimuli.

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