Micro-Phenomenology as a Method for Informing Experimental Design: A Case Study Regarding Time Perception

> Context • The need to complement quantitative approaches to studying consciousness with rigorous methods assessing subjective experience has long been pointed out. However, only a few publications have presented ways to genuinely achieve this, fewer still in a time-efficient manner. > Problem • We aim to demonstrate how micro-phenomenology can be streamlined to inform and improve experimental designs, by assessing face validity, i.e., whether the experimental design allows for participants’ clear understanding and execution of the task given. > Method • We do so by presenting a case study in which we used six micro-phenomenological interviews and a streamlined analysis protocol to explore participants’ experiences of an experiment investigating time perception. > Results • Based on the raw data and findings of this study, we illustrate how the minimal setup we opted for allows for a critical assessment of face validity and we discuss guidelines and limitations for using micro-phenomenology for piloting, and post-study assessment in general. > Implications • We discuss and instruct on the use of experiential data within quantitative setups, and argue for implementing respective approaches within the education of all conducting empirical research involving conscious participants. > Constructivist content • We offer a hands-on example of Varela’s neurophenomenological approach that allows reflection on the critical role of experimental designs in the construction of knowledge.