Year 13 Psychology students analyse business environments through psychological lens

Armed with research, observations, and photos they took after visiting each establishment, they delved into the realms of restaurants, retail stores, and supermarkets, aiming to decipher the impact of physical and psychological environments on consumer behaviour.

With guidance from their Psychology teacher, Mrs. Bogdanov, the students had to present and discuss their findings in a showcase and visitors marvelled at the interplay of psychological principles with business environments, as students elucidated the impact on consumer decisions and satisfaction.

The students scrutinised three key facets of these establishments:

1. The Physical Environment: This encompassed aspects such as interior layout, lighting, exterior design, odours, and crowding. Through their observations, students aimed to connect these elements to consumer perceptions and behaviours. For instance, they investigated how the layout and lighting within a retail store might influence browsing time or purchase decisions.
   
   
2. The Psychological Environment: This category included factors like signage, menu design, and personal space. By examining how these elements were utilised within different establishments, students sought to uncover their influence on consumer mood, attention, and overall experience.
   
   
3. The Product: Here, students analysed packaging, positioning, attention, and shelf placement strategies. They explored how these factors contributed to consumer attraction or repulsion towards products, affecting purchasing decisions and satisfaction levels.
   
   

Crucially, students didn't just stop at observation; they sought to connect their findings to the success or failure of the establishments under scrutiny. By drawing upon several psychological theories and models, they aimed to unravel how each element could either encourage consumer approach or avoidance behaviours, ultimately impacting customer satisfaction and the business's bottom line.

This innovative project not only provided students with a practical application of psychological concepts but also offered valuable insights for businesses aiming to optimise their environments for consumer engagement and satisfaction. The event exemplified the fusion of academic inquiry with real-world applications, which underscored the intricate interplay between Psychology and Business, highlighting the importance of understanding consumer behaviour in shaping successful establishments.

All the projects are currently on display in the Secondary Library, and have already piqued the interest of the other students. Congratulations to the Year 13 students on a job well done!