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The interaction between computers and psychology is a critical juncture for innovative design and user-centered technology. But it’s also where many accidental harms to people happen. That’s why we need psychologists to play a bigger role in tech development–particularly given that many technology companies change human behavior at scale and profit from behavioral changes, and generally embrace scientific innovation.
In the past data collection in psychological research was based on two fundamental methods: laboratory research and surveys. The former investigate one particular aspect in a small, controlled environment; the latter evaluate larger behavior with self-report surveys or (potentially structured) interviews. Both have inherent limitations.
Computers, however, are able to process and analyze large amounts of information at a rapid speed, and in ways that traditional methods can’t. This makes them powerful tools for psychologists which opens up a new field of research. For example, a new field called Psycho(neuro)informatics is emerging that merges psychology and computer science to develop models of human brains and intelligence. This requires a team comprised of psychologists who have domain expertise and computer scientists with the expertise required to create large-scale systems, manage and analyze data.
There was a lack of collaboration in the past. Google directors, for instance are more likely to have a degree in computer and computational sciences (29%) than psychology (less that 2%). This has led to the absence of psychology within the top management of tech companies. This has led to the result that a large number of tech products do not take into account psychological principles.