The Applied Cognition and Technology (ACAT) Laboratory is the result of a collaboration between cognitive psychologist, Valerie Sims, and social psychologist, Matthew Chin.
Our research examines humans’ experiences of non-human others, including technology such as computers and companion animals. We apply this basic research to applied questions such as designing interfaces and ameliorating animal cruelty. In addition, we research the role of individual differences in understanding these variables. Specifically, we examine the roles of spatial ability and cognitive attributional style.
Our lab has a variety of research projects going on at any given time. The topics of these projects include:
- Spatial Abilities/ Mental Rotation
- Schema Theory
- Anthropomorphism
- Individual Differences
- Human-Computer Interaction
- Technology Use/Behaviors
- Emergency Warnings
- Cognitive Load Theory and Higher Education
- Human-Animal Interaction
Our graduate students are from the Psychology Department’s Human Factors and Cognitive Psychology Program. and our undergraduate students often work in collaboration with the Office of Undergraduate Research.