From the microscopic infusoria in a drop of water to the highest animals, one may investigate the mental functions by means of systematic experiments. The work of the laboratory has naturally a double character. First in connection with the lectures, there are beginner's courses in demonstration and laboratory practice. All this is under the able direction of Dr. Herbert Nichols. Second, there are for the more advanced students new investigations which demand the greater part of the time.
Regular work is carried on daily from ten to one, and at various hours in the afternoon.
The graduate students, who are already proficient in Psychology, have, therefore, no mere practice work to perform, but are engaged in new investigations. We must have made contributions to a science in order to understand its deepest meaning. What is needed is the combination of the American University system, which lays far too much stress upon instruction, with the German system of original research. Experimental Psychology is just the subject that easily permits this union, since every new investigation demands only one man as director, but many as subjects. Thus each man can act as investigator, conducting perhaps for two days in the week an original research, and at home studying the literature connected with it.