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How Do People Process Different Representations of Statistical Information? Insights into Cognitive Effort,
Kevin E Tiede1,2,3, Wolfgang Gaissmaier2,4
1Center for Adaptive Rationality, Max Planck Institute for Human Development, Germany.
Summary
Graphical formats like icon arrays may improve understanding but require more cognitive effort than numbers. Numeracy influences information processing efficiency, with higher numeracy leading to better outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive psychology
- Health communication
- Decision science
Background:
- Graphical representations (e.g., icon arrays) often enhance understanding of treatment benefits and risks compared to numerical data.
- Investigating the cognitive processes behind format effects on understanding is crucial for effective risk communication.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine cognitive effort required for processing numerical versus graphical information.
- To understand how inconsistent representations affect information processing.
- To assess the influence of numeracy and graph literacy on understanding statistical information.
Main Methods:
- A between-participants experiment with 665 individuals assessing medication benefits and side effects.
- Information was presented numerically, graphically (icon arrays), or inconsistently.
- Cognitive effort was measured via time pressure; numeracy and graph literacy were assessed.
Main Results:
- Graphical formats (icon arrays) demanded more cognitive effort, evidenced by greater impact from time pressure.
- Inconsistent information representations led to lower understanding and decisions biased towards graphical options.
- Higher numeracy correlated with more efficient processing of quantitative information.
Conclusions:
- While graphical formats can improve understanding, they may necessitate greater cognitive effort.
- The objective of risk communication should guide the choice between graphical and numerical formats.
- Understanding of statistical information is influenced by representation format and individual numeracy levels.
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