The relative efficacy with which appearance of a new object orients visual attention was investigated. At issue is whether the visual system treats onset as being of particular importance or only 1 of a number of stimulus events equally likely to summon attention. Using the 1-shot change detection paradigm, the authors compared detectability of…

Proposes an alternative to Milgram's overload model of urban behavior. Suggests that intense, complex and/or novel stimuli may lead to positive as well as negative effects, and that this may vary across persons or over time. Presents data that confirm the importance of urban complexity as an organizing variable. (Author/GC)

Proposes a system for document organization based on cueing and page formatting techniques, in which the logical and systematic use of cueing and formatting creates a visual hierarchy organizing and signalling information for the reader. Maintains that proper application produces increased reading speeds, ease of access, and comprehension. (SR)