Research suggests that subtle environmental cues ('nudges') can effectively influence behaviour without restricting choice. To investigate this, a researcher conducted a naturalistic observation study monitoring the use of two hand sanitizer stations placed at opposite entrances of a college cafeteria. One station had a bright green arrow painted on the floor pointing towards it, while the other station had no floor cues.

During a peak lunch period from 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm, the researcher recorded each instance where a person used one of the stations, noting whether the user was a member of staff or a student.

Table 1: Number of times each hand sanitizer station was used by staff and students