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On the limits of short-term memory when exploring websites

Suhani, Andrei (2023) On the limits of short-term memory when exploring websites.

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Abstract:This study examines the cognitive limits in change detection on web pages, specifically focusing on the number of items and the type of feature change that affects individuals' ability to detect changes. Previous research has suggested the use of Miller's magical number of seven plus or minus two in web design. However, considering new constraints, this study aims to determine the actual cognitive limits in a web page environment. The experimental part utilizes Change Blindness (CB) and presents participants with displays containing varying numbers of items and different types of changes. The main research question addresses the threshold at which individuals miss a change, while a secondary research question explores the relationship between the type of change and change detection ability. The results indicate that the number of items and change conditions significantly affect change detection. Other further analyses revealed specific differences between the different levels of the factors. The findings provide insights into the cognitive limitations and factors influencing change detection on web pages, offering implications for web design and user experience considerations.
Item Type:Essay (Bachelor)
Faculty:BMS: Behavioural, Management and Social Sciences
Programme:Psychology BSc (56604)
Link to this item:https://purl.utwente.nl/essays/95464
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