Schema Pointer plus Tag Model and Interior Design

Abstract

The present study was a test of two theoretical models which attempt to explain memory for interior designs. One model proposed by Brewer and Treyens predicted better memory performance for typical items while a Schema Pointer Plus Tag model predicted better memory performance for atypical.

Ten scenarios or verbal descriptions of specific rooms and commercial establishments were presented to 40 subjects. These scenarios contained items generated and then rated on typicality to the scenario by two previous groups of subjects. Recognition ratings were then performed by the group which was presented with the scenarios immediately after presentation. Hit and false alarm rates were computed along with d' scores as a measure memory retention. ANOVAs were computed with typicality of the items as the independent variable with hit rates, false alarm rates and d' scores as the dependent measures for each.

The data confirmed the Schema Pointer Plus Tag model proposed by Graesser (1981). Further research and implications for interior design are discussed.