Biology Forums - Study Force

Our first chapter pointed out the difference between basic psychology and applied psychology.  Distinguish between these two terms.  Chapter Six notes that consumer products are sometimes designed with little thought for visual principles such as those formulated by the Gestalt psychologists.  Describe some ways in which knowledge of Gestalt principles could be applied to the design of consumer products.

Basic research involves seeking knowledge for its own sake.
Applied research involves finding practical uses of basic psychological knowledge.
Consumer products are often designed with little thought for perception.
For example, important buttons on a remote control should be distinct and stand out as a figure against background.
This could be done by making them a different size, shape, or color than other buttons.
Buttons that are related in function should be grouped close together (proximity), and should be similar to each other in appearance (similarity).
The design of instruction manuals for putting together products or operating products could also benefit from paying attention to the Gestalt principles.