No. #168

Google Effect
- Digital Dependence Reduces Memory Effort

The Google effect, or digital amnesia, refers to the tendency to forget information that can be easily found using internet search engines, leading to a reduced effort to remember information. This affects how users remember facts, instructions, or even personal information, relying instead on digital devices for retrieval.

Read more on Wikipedia

Product example

Users may not remember basic information such as phone numbers or historical facts, choosing instead to rely on search engines for answers.

Empathy tips

1

Encourage Independent Recall

Encourage users to independently recall information before resorting to internet searches.

2

Offline Learning Challenges

Introduce offline learning challenges that require independent memory recall.

3

Educate on Cognitive Skills

Educate users on the importance of maintaining cognitive skills in the digital age.

4

Memory Enhancement Activities

Incorporate memory enhancement activities into digital platforms to counteract the Google effect.

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Anna Lundqvist
UX & AI ethics expert driving better products and smarter teams.
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Eddy Salzmann
Design lead crafting seamless products and mentoring design teams.
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Ola Möller
Facilitator helping organisations see the big picture and take action.