A few months of preparation and some clever experiments can save a few hours in the library.

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Current research project: navigation and retention

Most experts recommend using the most intuitive navigation, but basic precepts of cognitive science would suggest a somewhat less intuitive navigation might promote better retention. We are currently researching this.
Current research project: categorization based on design

It is common that people visit several websites of similar companies when looking for a service or product. It is likely that the design of these websites will affect the way the different companies are categorized. This series of experiments draws a preliminary map of variables that make the difference.

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Ambit

Research for the 21st century

The internet is much more than technology nowadays: it is a factor that changes cultures, behaviors and identities. The International Research Center for Design and Online Communication is a group of researchers studying how online interaction creates meaning and how behavior arises in online contexts. Findings are published in periodicals or within our network.

Research areas

We focus on 2 themes

Online behavior
The topics in this branch include interaction between humans and websites or applications, but also interaction between humans via the internet is relevant, provided there is a technological element involved. All research is based on an experimental paradigm. While multidisciplinary approaches are welcome, an approach from experimental psychology is preferred.

Meaning and the internet
This research branch investigates how the online world differs from the offline world in terms of creating meaning. However, possible topics include how online interaction changes meanings in the offline world. Preferred approaches are based on a solid theoretical basis in semiotics, especially behavioral semiotics.

Join the research team

Work with other inquisitve people

The International Research Center for Design and Visual Communication is accepting research proposals within the above specified research fields. Successful applicants are provided with mentoring, funding and technical help. Get your application form by clicking here and submit it below after you complete it.