29. The research studies mentioned in the passage suggest that a supermarket owner who wants to increase the productivity of workers stocking shelves in the store after the store has closed should play background music selections in which
Answer: D
Background music selections should arrange violins in earlier segments and trumpets in later ones.
To increase the productivity of workers stocking shelves after store hours, the supermarket owner should implement a strategy where violins appear in earlier musical segments and trumpets in later ones, as this arrangement is likely to enhance alertness and stimulate productivity.
A) longer musical segments alternate with shorter segments of silence
This option does not align with the research findings presented in the extract. While segment length is relevant, the specific arrangement of instruments and pacing is crucial for achieving the desired effect of increased productivity.
B) the pace is slow and the music is continuous
This choice contradicts the passage's indication that slow-paced music, while effective for shoppers, does not enhance worker productivity. Continuous slow music may not provide the necessary stimulation for workers stocking shelves.
C) longer musical segments alternate with shorter ones
Similar to option A, this choice focuses on segment length without addressing the critical factor of stimulus value through instrumentation and pacing. The arrangement of instruments is more significant in influencing worker productivity.
D) violins appear in earlier musical segments and trumpets in later ones
This option is correct as it reflects the research that shows an arrangement of music based on increasing stimulus value enhances alertness and productivity among workers. The transition from violins to trumpets aligns with the principles outlined in the extract.
E) fast musical selections alternate repeatedly with slower ones
This option suggests a mixture of fast and slow music, which may not provide the increasing stimulus value needed for productivity. The research favors a specific arrangement of instruments to effectively stimulate workers.
Conclusion
The correct answer, D, is definitively right as it aligns with the research indicating that the arrangement of music based on increasing stimulus value—specifically, the transition from violins to trumpets—enhances worker productivity. All other options fail to consider the critical aspects of instrumentation and pacing that the research highlights as essential for achieving the desired outcomes.