ICT 551 EXERCISE

1. In designing a user interface, explain TWO (2) differences between designer mental
model and user mental model.
2. Explain TWO (2) importance of perception in human-computer interaction.
3. Describe TWO (2) types of human memory.
4. Describe TWO (2) suggestions of interface design that can reduce memory load of
users.
5. Describe TWO (2) principles of Fitt’s Law that may be applied to the design of a
mobile application.
6. You are required to design a registration form.
a. Describe ONE (1) suitable interaction style for the registration form.
b. Provide FOUR (4) advantages of interaction style that you have suggested in
a.
7. You are required to design a mobile application for elderly users that have visual
impairment. Describe any THREE (3) processes of User-Centered Design to design
a mobile application.
8. Describe TWO (2) reasons why Task Analysis is used in system design.
9. Construct a hierarchical diagram of Hierarchical Task Analysis (HTA) for the goal of
online shopping.
10. Describe TWO (2) error prevention guidelines in designing user interfaces.
11. Explain TWO (2) reasons with an example of when an auditory interface (input or
output) would be appropriate than a visual and keyboard interaction.
12. Describe TWO (2) reasons for user interface evaluation.
13. Evaluation of an interface in the computer system can be conducted by an expert or
user to identify any specific problems with the system. Explain TWO (2) advantages of
choosing an expert to evaluate your user interface.
14. Describe FOUR (4) principles of heuristic evaluation.

ANSWER
1. In designing a user interface, here are two differences between the designer mental model
and user mental model:
a. Knowledge and Expertise: Designers have a deep understanding of the system and its
underlying principles, technologies, and constraints. They possess knowledge and expertise
that users may not have. Designers' mental models are shaped by their technical knowledge
and design principles. On the other hand, users have their own mental models based on their
prior experiences, expectations, and understanding of how things should work. Users' mental
models are often simpler and may not align with the technical intricacies considered by
designers.
b. Context of Use: Designers approach interface design from the perspective of creating a
system that fulfills specific objectives and tasks. They consider the overall system architecture,
functionality, and design guidelines. Designers' mental models are influenced by the design
goals and requirements. Users, however, interact with the system in a specific context,
performing particular tasks or pursuing their goals. Users' mental models are more focused
on achieving their desired outcomes within their specific context of use, which may differ from
the broader design considerations.
2. Perception plays a crucial role in human-computer interaction, and here are two reasons
why it is important:
a. User Engagement: Perception is fundamental in creating an engaging user experience. The
design of visual elements, such as colors, shapes, and layouts, can evoke certain emotions
and capture users' attention. By carefully considering visual perception principles, such as
Gestalt principles or visual hierarchy, designers can guide users' attention to important
information, enhance the aesthetics of the interface, and create a more enjoyable and
engaging interaction.
b. Information Processing: Perception influences how users perceive and interpret information
presented on the interface. By understanding how users perceive visual stimuli, designers can
optimize the presentation of information to enhance understanding and facilitate efficient
information processing. Well-designed visual cues, affordances, and feedback mechanisms
can aid users in comprehending the interface, making decisions, and completing tasks more
effectively.

3. Two types of human memory are:

a. Short-Term Memory (STM): Also known as working memory, STM is responsible for
temporarily holding and manipulating information during cognitive tasks. It has limited capacity
and duration. STM is used for immediate processing and is closely tied to attention and
consciousness. For example, when users are entering a password into a form, they need to
remember it temporarily until it is submitted.
b. Long-Term Memory (LTM): LTM is responsible for storing information over an extended
period, potentially indefinitely. It has a vast capacity and can include various types of
information, such as facts, experiences, and procedural knowledge. LTM influences users'
understanding and expectations based on past experiences. For example, when users recall
their past interactions with similar systems or interfaces, it relies on long-term memory to
inform their current actions and decision-making.

4. Two suggestions for interface design to reduce memory load of users:

a. Clear and Consistent Information Presentation: Present information in a consistent and
predictable manner throughout the interface. This reduces the cognitive load on users as they
don't have to remember and interpret different representations or interaction patterns.
Consistency in visual design, terminology, and interaction patterns allows users to rely on their
existing knowledge and mental models.
b. Minimize the Need for Memorization: Reduce the reliance on users' memory by providing
support mechanisms. For example, use contextual cues, reminders, or visual aids to assist
users in remembering important information or tasks. Autocomplete or suggestions can
alleviate the burden of recalling complex or lengthy inputs. Design interfaces that provide easy
access to relevant information, such as contextual help or tooltips, without requiring users to
rely solely on their memory.
5. Two principles of Fitts's Law that may be applied to the design of a mobile application:
a. Size and Distance: According to Fitts's Law, the time required to move to a target is a
function of the target's size and distance. To apply this principle to a mobile application,
designers should ensure that interactive elements, such as buttons or icons, are large enough
to be easily selectable with a finger or stylus. Increasing the size of the target makes it easier
for users to hit it accurately, reducing errors and improving efficiency. Similarly, minimizing the
distance between targets or providing ample spacing between them enhances the ease of
navigation and reduces the likelihood of accidental selections.
b. Feedback and Responsiveness: Fitts's Law also emphasizes the importance of feedback
and responsiveness in the design of interfaces. Users should receive immediate feedback
when interacting with targets, such as visual cues or haptic feedback, confirming the selection.
Swift response times contribute to users' perception of the interface as being responsive and
increase their confidence in performing actions. Designers should strive to minimize any
delays or perceived lag in the system's response to maintain a seamless interaction flow.

6. For the registration form:

a. Suitable Interaction Style: A suitable interaction style for a registration form would be a
combination of both direct manipulation and form-based interaction. Direct manipulation
allows users to interact with the form fields directly, providing instant feedback and a sense of
control. At the same time, form-based interaction provides structure and consistency, ensuring
all required information is captured.
b. Advantages of the Interaction Style:
1. Efficiency: Direct manipulation allows users to input information quickly and accurately, as
they can directly interact with the form fields without relying on additional steps or modes of
interaction.
2. Clarity and Guidance: Form-based interaction provides a clear structure and layout for the
registration form. Users can easily understand the required fields and the sequence of
information to be entered, reducing cognitive load and potential confusion.
3. Error Prevention: By combining direct manipulation and form-based interaction, designers
can implement real-time validation and error checking. Immediate feedback can alert users to
any errors or missing information, helping them correct mistakes before submitting the form.
4. Familiarity: The combination of direct manipulation and form-based interaction aligns with
users' prior experiences and mental models. Many online forms follow this pattern, making it
more intuitive for users and reducing the learning curve.

7. Three processes of User-Centered Design for designing a mobile application for elderly
users with visual impairment:
a. User Research: Conduct research to understand the specific needs, challenges, and
preferences of elderly users with visual impairments. This can involve interviews,
observations, or surveys to gather insights into their capabilities, limitations, and goals.
Understanding their context, including the devices they use and the environments they interact
in, is crucial for designing a tailored mobile application.
b. Prototyping and Iterative Design: Create low-fidelity prototypes of the mobile application to
gather feedback from elderly users. By involving them in the design process early on, their
input can shape the application's features, layout, and interaction patterns. Iteratively refine
the prototypes based on user feedback, ensuring that the design caters to their specific needs
and usability requirements.
c. Accessibility Testing: Perform usability testing with elderly users with visual impairments to
evaluate the accessibility and usability of the mobile application. This involves assessing
factors such as screen reader compatibility, font size and contrast, audio feedback, and
navigation options. By involving the target users in the testing process, designers can identify
potential issues, gather valuable feedback, and make informed improvements to the
application.

8. Two reasons why Task Analysis is used in system design:

a. Understanding User Tasks: Task Analysis helps designers gain a deep understanding of the
tasks that users need to perform within a system. By analyzing tasks step-by-step, designers
can identify the users' goals, the information and actions required, and the sequence of
operations. This understanding allows designers to design interfaces that support and
streamline the completion of these tasks, ultimately enhancing user efficiency and satisfaction.
b. Identifying Design Requirements: Task Analysis helps uncover the requirements and
constraints that should be considered during system design. It helps identify the specific
functionalities, data inputs and outputs, and potential interactions required for each task. By
analyzing the tasks from the user's perspective, designers can ensure that the system's
interface and functionality align with the users' mental models and needs. Task Analysis also
aids in identifying potential bottlenecks, errors, or usability issues that can be addressed in the
design phase.

9. Hierarchical Task Analysis (HTA) for the goal of online shopping:

Goal: Online Shopping

Main Task: Purchase a product

- Subtask 1: Search for a product

- Subtask 1.1: Enter search keywords
- Subtask 1.2: Browse search results
- Subtask 1.3: Refine search criteria
- Subtask 1.4: Select desired product

- Subtask 2: Add product to cart

- Subtask 2.1: View product details
- Subtask 2.2: Select product options (e.g., size, color)
- Subtask 2.3: Add product to the cart

- Subtask 3: Proceed to checkout

- Subtask 3.1: Review cart contents
- Subtask 3.2: Enter shipping and billing information
- Subtask 3.3: Select shipping method
- Subtask 3.4: Provide payment details

- Subtask 4: Confirm and complete purchase

- Subtask 4.1: Review order summary
- Subtask 4.2: Agree to terms and conditions
- Subtask 4.3: Place the order

10. Two error prevention guidelines in designing user interfaces:

a. Clear and Descriptive Error Messages: When errors occur, provide users with clear and
informative error messages. Avoid generic or cryptic error messages that do not explain the
issue. Error messages should be specific, highlight the problem, and provide guidance on how
to resolve it. By presenting actionable and easy-to-understand error messages, users can
quickly understand and recover from errors.
b. Input Validation and Constraints: Implement input validation mechanisms to prevent users
from entering invalid or inappropriate data. Use appropriate input constraints, such as data
formats, character limits, or range limits, to guide users and prevent potential errors. Real-time
validation can alert users about errors as they enter information, reducing the chance of
submitting a form with incorrect or incomplete data.

11. Two reasons when an auditory interface would be appropriate than a visual and keyboard
interaction:
a. Accessibility for Visually Impaired Users: An auditory interface can be more appropriate
when designing for users with visual impairments. For example, a blind user may rely on
screen readers or voice assistants to interact with a system. By providing auditory feedback
and voice-based input options, such as voice commands or speech recognition, visually
impaired users can effectively interact with the system and access its functionalities.
b. Hands-Free or Eyes-Free Interaction: In certain situations, users may not have the ability
to use visual or keyboard-based interactions. For instance, when driving a car, users need to
keep their hands on the steering wheel and their eyes on the road. An auditory interface allows
users to interact with the system using voice commands or speech recognition, enabling
hands-free and eyes-free interaction, enhancing safety, and reducing distractions.

12. Two reasons for user interface evaluation:

a. Usability Assessment: User interface evaluation helps assess the usability of a system or
application. It identifies strengths and weaknesses in the design, usability issues, and areas
for improvement. By evaluating the interface, designers can gather feedback from users and
experts, measure user satisfaction, identify usability bottlenecks, and make informed design
decisions to enhance the overall user experience.
b. Validation of Design Choices: User interface evaluation provides a means to validate design
choices against user needs and expectations. It helps ensure that the design aligns with the
intended goals and requirements of the system. By involving users in the evaluation process,
designers can verify that the interface meets their needs, verify the effectiveness of design
solutions, and validate that the design supports users in accomplishing their tasks efficiently
and effectively.

13. Two advantages of choosing an expert to evaluate your user interface:

a. Expertise and Domain Knowledge: Experts possess specialized knowledge and experience
in user interface design and evaluation. They can apply their expertise to identify usability
issues, potential design flaws, and best practices. Experts can offer valuable insights, suggest
improvements, and provide recommendations based on established design principles and
industry standards. Their deep understanding of user behavior and interaction patterns can
help uncover subtle usability problems that may be missed by novice evaluators.
b. Efficient and Targeted Evaluation: Expert evaluators can conduct evaluations more
efficiently, given their experience and familiarity with evaluation methods and techniques. They
can quickly identify critical issues and provide actionable feedback to improve the user
interface. Their expertise allows them to focus on specific aspects or areas of concern,
optimizing the evaluation process. Additionally, experts can provide a comprehensive
evaluation report, including recommendations for design modifications, usability guidelines,
and potential design alternatives.

14. Four principles of heuristic evaluation:

a. Visibility of System Status: The interface should provide clear and continuous feedback to
users about the system's current state and the progress of their actions. Users should be
aware of what is happening and understand the system's response to their inputs.
b. Match between System and Real-World: The system should use language, concepts, and
representations that are familiar and meaningful to the users. It should align with users' mental
models and reflect the real-world tasks, objects, and actions with which users are already
familiar.
c. User Control and Freedom: The interface should allow users to easily navigate and explore
the system without being trapped in unwanted or irreversible actions. Users should have the
ability to undo or redo their actions, providing them with a sense of control and freedom.
d. Consistency and Standards: The interface should follow established conventions,
standards, and guidelines to ensure consistency across the system. Consistency in design
elements, terminology, and interactions reduces users' cognitive load and allows them to
transfer their knowledge and skills from one part of the system to another.
e. Error Prevention and Recovery: The interface should be designed to prevent errors or, if
errors occur, provide clear and effective error messages. It should include mechanisms for
error recovery, allowing users to easily correct their mistakes and resume their tasks without
significant disruption.
f. Flexibility and Efficiency of Use: The interface should accommodate both novice and expert
users. It should provide shortcuts, customization options, and efficient interaction techniques,
allowing experienced users to accomplish tasks more quickly and efficiently. At the same time,
it should be intuitive and usable for users with less experience or infrequent usage.