Our laboratory conducts research on a variety of cognitive processing characteristics, such as perceptual processes (the mechanisms behind the five senses) and attention (sorting of sensory information), memory, language comprehension, and image, etc., mainly using methods of experimental psychology. Additionally, we conduct research on various issues in psychology utilizing computers. Notable research subject areas include the following.

Psychophysics of Visual Perception and Action

Humans move their body parts in the outside world frequently, and recognize the outside world through multiple senses such as vision and touch. Based on the recognition, humans can perform complex, efficient and various actions. We are working on the purpose of experimentally clarifying the principles and functions of human’s adaptable information processing using the virtual reality system.

Cognitive psychology research related to visual recognition and communication

We engage in empirical research utilizing eye-tracking and psychophysical methodologies to investigate how individuals perceive various images and texts, and how they derive emotions and motivation from them, focusing mainly on visual media such as manga and web pages (see Fig. 1). Additionally, we explore the cognitive characteristics of communication mediated through ICT devices such as personal computers and smartphones.

Research on applications to education and disaster risk reduction

To implement basic insights into the nature and functions of human cognitive information processing in the society, we study the possible application of the memory and cognitive studies to school education, disaster memories and the experience sharing of disasters, and our cognitive nature in the face of disasters.