Gestalt Principles & Dual-Task Interference Assignment
Question 1 (Marks: 50)
Topic: Object perception: Gestalt principles of organisation
The FedEx logo above is an example of the figure-ground principle of perceptual organisation.
Use the image as a guide and answer the discussion question that follows:
Assignment instructions:
In an integrated discussion format:
- Briefly discuss what the gestalt principles of organisation refers to, providing any relevant history.
- Find any image of your own that demonstrates the perceptual organisation principle of
figure-ground. Paste the image into your assignment and give a brief explanation for why
you chose the image (You are allowed to create/design/ draw your own image, but it must adhere to the principle. You have been given the FedEx logo as a guide).
- Discuss the image in terms of the figure-ground relationship – the explanation must include an analysis of how the different elements of the image are perceived.
- Reference your entire discussion using at least three journal articles.
- See rubric for how marks will be awarded.
Question 2 (Marks: 50)
Topic: Processing Capacity and Dual-Task Interference
Read the scenario and answer the questions that follow:
Using a mobile phone while driving is considered a contributing factor to numerous fatal accidents. It is hard to stay focused on the road while talking on the phone, especially when there are various things such as rain, fog and pedestrians that can affect visibility or cause distractions.
It’s a well-known fact that people are very attached to their phones the world over. They often go about their daily business with their phones in hand, and we often see them in their cars at traffic lights, talking on their phones or looking at their mobile devices while driving. This type
of distracted driving is very dangerous and can even be more dangerous than drunk driving.
Source: dekraauto.co.za. {2022). Available online at https://www.dekraauto.co.za/articles/talking on-phone-when-driving. {Accessed: 18 February 2025)
Write an academic essay in which you critically evaluate the cognitive demands of using a mobile phone whilst driving. Ensure that you focus on processing capacity and perceptual load. You need to refer to at least five journal articles to answer this question.
You will be awarded marks as follows:
- Essay structure and overall presentation (grammar, formatting, spelling, etc.) (5).
- Discussion of theory and referral to relevant evidence on processing capacity and perceptual load in cognitive psychology research. Furthermore, discuss how these factors influence dual-task performance. You also need to make use of examples in your answer, where relevant. (25).
- Clear application to using a mobile phone while driving (and as a contributing factor to numerous fatal accidents) (20).
Psychology Assignment Answers: Expert Answers on the Above Questions on Psychology
Gestalt principles of organisation
The Gestalt principle was developed by early 20th century German psychologists and they are quite effective in explaining the ways in which people naturally organise visual stimuli into meaningful wholes. The figure ground principle is known for differentiating the main object from its surrounding background. This principle is known for specifying selective perception and explains why we focus on relevant stimuli even in a cluttered environment.
Processing capacity and dual task interference
The processing capacity is defined as the ability to recognise tasks. For example, the cognitive resources within humans are limited and their attention is therefore divided when they perform multiple tasks. The dual task interference implies the performance of two tasks simultaneously such as watching the mobile phone while driving. This leads to split in attention and reduced reaction time.
Perceptual load theory indicates that during the loading situation, there are fewer additional resources available for secondary tasks.
| Disclaimer: This answer is a model for study and reference purposes only. Please do not submit it as your own work. |
