A typical study in this area would involve reading pieces of text written in different styles and explaining to a researcher why some styles seem to be more difficult to read than others. Our volunteers are a vital part of our research and their contribution is greatly valued. We maintain a list of volunteers who are invited at intervals to come to the Department to participate in some of our studies. Our volunteers enjoy the experience of taking part in our studies and they gain a useful understanding of how psychology research takes place. Also, they generally learn some interesting and encouraging facts about themselves.
All research takes place under very strict ethical guidelines.
Our scientific results are always communicated in print in such a form that it is impossible to identify information about any particular individual. Volunteers may withdraw from the research at any time without giving a reason.