A primer on open-source, experimental social media simulation software: Opportunities for misinformation research and beyond

Social media simulation software (SMSS) allows researchers to collect behavioural data on how participants to engage with researcher-specified social media content using natural, interactive social media user interfaces. A notable subset of SMSS allow for experimental observation of how people engage with different types of content or user interfaces. Providing an avenue for collecting causal evidence on how algorithmic recommendation systems and design affordances of social media platforms impact behaviour; particularly online harms like misinformation. This article reviews key similarities and differences between three notable SMSS (The (Mis)information Game, the Mock Social Media Website Tool, and the Truman Platform), provides recommendations for use, and perspectives on the future of SMSS.