The photo in my experimental psychology textbook was unforgettable. A man at the controls of a nuclear reactor had to stand on a chair to reach a knob on the operating panel. It made me think about the risks we face when humans are not factored into design. It is imperative that psychology be at the heart of the design and development of technologies. That’s why APA is building partnerships with key players in that realm, such as the U.S. Department of Transportation and the Association for the Advancement of Artificial Intelligence, bringing scientists of all kinds together to create a better world. In doing so, APA is playing the role of catalyst in both helping the public see psychology’s critical role and creating opportunities for psychologists to be visible leaders in that endeavor. You will hear more from us as we focus on these issues, beginning this month with our first national summit on Technology, Mind & Society, April 5–7 in Washington, D.C.
Society needs psychology to ensure safety, to maximize effectiveness, to bring humans to the top of our capabilities and to help overcome the perceived limitations in using technology in a world that’s evolving as we watch.
It took 46 years for electricity to reach 25 percent of the U.S. population. It took 26 years for television to hit that milestone. Virtual assistants like Amazon Echo will go from launch to ubiquity in fewer than sevenopens in new window.
In this fast-moving world, psychological research is imperative in the design and development of new technologies. Our cover story this month explores how psychology can help artificial intelligence mimic human intelligence.
Psychology must be a leader in technology adoption. How, for instance, can psychology support adoption of driverless vehicles, proven to be safer, in a way that reduces anxiety and increases the driver’s sense of control?
Psychology offers the key to understanding the impact technology has on our families, our society, and our profession and discipline. What insight can psychological research give us, for instance, into the effects of smartphones, social media or data security?
APA has a critical role to play in helping shape the public’s understanding of our role and creating opportunities for psychologists. I can’t predict the future, but I know psychology must be front and center as technology evolves. It’s not an option—it’s an imperative.
