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Interface Apparency

The positive impact of computer-based technology varies in part as a function of interface design and the individual abilities of users. The primary cognitive factor driving differences in performance using computer-based technology is spatial visualization ability (SVA). Four techniques for mitigating the negative impact of low spatial visualization are discussed. The use of spatial metaphors and graphical user interfaces have been promising, but interface apparency, revealing hidden relationships and showing contingencies, and interface manipulatability, allowing users to directly manipulate objects and see intermediate steps, are most likely to benefit individuals with low spatial visualization ability.

Two experimental studies were conducted. Experiment 1 involved 97 undergraduates. Subjects were given tasks to select options on a computer screen involving a four columns of four buttons. Contingencies were programmed such that one could access the desired function in the last column only after the selecting the right combination of buttons in the previous columns. In the non-apparent conditions subjects resorted to trial and error to solve the problem. In the apparency condition subjects were shown the underlining contingencies in a map and performance was significantly better. Experiment 2 replicated these results in a pull-down menu interface using maps, color codes, and highlighting to show the contingencies. Finally, interface manipulatibility was explored in which users are given increased intactivity with the interface to allow them to understand the contingent relationships. While interactivity did not significantly increase learning scores of material, subjects preferred interfaces that provided increased manipulatibility.

Two additional studies are proposed which allow users to manipulate objects through intermediate steps rather than having to infer or visualize those steps. The results of these experiments and the design concepts that are subsequently suggested by them will help to provide interface designers with graphical user interface (GUI) techniques that will provide gateways through the SVA barrier.

Participants:

Diane Alonso, Graduate Research Assistant

Kent L. Norman, Department of Psychology

Funding Agency: NSF