Final answer:
The correct statement is that the Hawthorne effect occurs when the attention of researchers on subjects influences the subjects' performance, rather than physical changes like illumination leading to increased productivity. Hence, the claim that increased workplace illumination directly causes increased productivity is false.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that when illumination in the workplace was increased, so did productivity, is false. This statement is a common misconception that relates to the Hawthorne effect. The actual Hawthorne studies found that any change, including changes to lighting, seemed to temporarily increase productivity not because of the physical change itself, but because of the attention workers received from researchers. This means the researchers' presence influenced the workers' behavior, causing them to work harder or more efficiently during the study period.
The correct answer to the question "Which statement best describes the Hawthorne effect?" from the provided options is (d), The attention of researchers on subjects causes the effect the experimenter is looking for. This encapsulates the essence of the Hawthorne effect where participants alter their behavior due to the awareness of being observed. The interest of the researchers often has a greater impact on productivity and behavioral changes than the actual physical modifications in the workplace.