HCI UNIT 3

NOV-DEC 2023

Q1

a) What is Ergonomics? Explain the Arrangement of controls and displays with respect
to cognitive aspects of design. [6]

Ergonomics:
Ergonomics is the study of designing tools, machines, and systems to suit human abilities and
limitations. It aims to improve productivity, comfort, and safety while reducing user fatigue and
errors.

Cognitive Aspects of Arrangement:

1. Compatibility: Controls and displays should match user expectations and mental
models. For example, turning a knob clockwise to increase volume is intuitive.
2. Grouping: Related controls and displays should be positioned together to make it easier
for users to locate and understand them. E.g., car dashboards group speedometers with
fuel indicators.
3. Proximity: Controls should be placed near their corresponding displays to minimize
confusion. E.g., stove knobs aligned with the burners they control.
4. Feedback: The system should provide immediate and clear feedback when a control is
used, like a sound or light indicating a successful action.
5. Simplicity: Avoid complex layouts. A clean and simple arrangement ensures the system
is easy to use, reducing the mental effort required.
6. Prioritization: Frequently used controls and critical information should be easily
accessible and highlighted. E.g., emergency stop buttons are often large and brightly
colored.
7. Consistency: Maintain a uniform design across the system to reduce the learning curve
and user errors. E.g., using the same layout for controls across similar devices.

b) List the interaction styles and explain any one in detail. [6]

Interaction Styles:

1. Command Line Interface (CLI): Text-based input where users type commands.
2. Menu-Based Interface: Users select options from menus.
3. Form-Fill Interface: Users fill out forms to input data.
4. Direct Manipulation Interface: Interaction with objects on the screen using gestures,
touch, or mouse.
5. Question-Answer Dialog: System asks questions, and users provide answers.
 6. Natural Language Interface: Users interact using natural language, like speaking or
typing.

Direct Manipulation Interface (Explained):

Direct manipulation interfaces let users interact directly with objects on the screen, offering an
intuitive experience.

● Example: Dragging a file into a folder or resizing an image by dragging its corners.
● Key Features:
○ Visual Representation: Real-world metaphors like folders and trash bins.
○ Immediate Feedback: Actions like dragging or resizing show real-time updates.
○ Simplicity: Users interact with familiar objects instead of typing commands.
● Benefits: Intuitive for beginners, visually engaging, and reduces cognitive effort.
● Challenges: Space-intensive and can be slower for repetitive tasks compared to CLI.

c) Write a short note on Human Memory and its types. [6]

Human Memory:
Memory refers to the brain's ability to store and retrieve information. It plays a crucial role in
interacting with systems, influencing how users learn and remember interfaces.

Types of Memory:

1. Sensory Memory:
○ Holds sensory information (e.g., sights or sounds) for 1–2 seconds.
○ Allows the brain to decide whether to focus on the input.
○ Example: Quickly noticing a flashing icon.
2. Short-Term Memory (STM):
○ Stores small amounts of information temporarily (5–9 items for ~20 seconds).
○ Used for immediate tasks, like remembering a phone number while dialing.
3. Long-Term Memory (LTM):
○ Stores information permanently for extended periods.
○ Subdivided into:
■ Declarative Memory: Facts (e.g., names) and events (e.g., memories).
■ Procedural Memory: Skills and actions (e.g., riding a bike).

Efficient interface design reduces memory load by providing cues, instructions, and intuitive
layouts.

Q2

a) What are the psychological reactions to poor interface designs? [6]

Poorly designed interfaces can negatively impact users psychologically. Some key reactions
include:

1. Frustration:
○ Confusing layouts or non-intuitive controls irritate users.
○ Example: Struggling to find basic functions in a new app.
2. Stress:
○ Overly complicated systems cause cognitive overload, leading to stress.
○ Example: Complex forms with unclear instructions.
3. Reduced Productivity:
○ Poor interfaces slow down task completion, lowering efficiency.
○ Example: Slow-loading or non-responsive menus in software.
4. Disengagement:
○ Users may lose interest or stop using the system entirely.
○ Example: Avoiding websites with bad navigation.
5. Errors:
○ Users are more prone to mistakes with unclear instructions or inconsistent
designs.
○ Example: Accidentally deleting files due to ambiguous options.
6. Lack of Trust:
○ Users lose confidence in the system, doubting its reliability.
○ Example: Frequent crashes or failure to save progress.

b) What is Usability Engineering? Explain Scenario-Based Usability Engineering. [6]

Usability Engineering:
A structured approach to designing and testing systems to ensure they are easy to use,
efficient, and meet user needs. It emphasizes user-centered design to reduce errors and
improve satisfaction.

Scenario-Based Usability Engineering:

● Definition: Evaluating system usability by simulating real-life user scenarios.

● Steps:
○ Understand User Goals: Identify what users aim to achieve with the system.
○ Create Scenarios: Develop realistic tasks based on typical user activities.
○ Test and Evaluate: Observe how users perform tasks in these scenarios to
identify problems.
● Example: Testing an e-commerce website by asking users to search for and purchase
an item.
● Benefits:
○ Identifies usability issues in real-world contexts.
○ Ensures the system aligns with user needs and expectations.
c) List the Principles of User Interface Design and explain any one in detail. [6]

Principles of UI Design:

1. Consistency
2. Feedback
3. Simplicity
4. Visibility
5. Error Prevention
6. Affordance
7. Flexibility

Consistency (Explained):
Consistency ensures that the interface behaves predictably across the system, making it easier
for users to learn and navigate.

● Example: Using the same icons and color schemes across all pages of a website.
● Benefits:
○ Reduces user errors as actions are familiar.
○ Speeds up learning for new users.
● Implementation:
○ Follow common design standards and guidelines.
○ Ensure similar tasks have similar controls (e.g., save buttons in the same location
across forms).

MAY-JUNE 2024

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Interaction Styles
Command line, Menu Selection, Form fill-in, Direct Manipulation, Natural Language.

Command Line Interface

● The Command Line Interface (CLI) is a text-based method of interacting with a
computer or software system.
● It enables users to execute tasks by typing commands into a console or terminal.
● Unlike graphical user interfaces (GUIs) that rely on visual elements like icons and
buttons, the CLI offers direct access to system functionalities
● Features Of CLI:
Commands can be combined together using pipeline ( | ) or redirection ( < , > ) to create
complex workflows

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Menu Selection

● The Menu Selection interface is a user interaction style where the user selects actions
or options from a list of predefined choices presented in a structured menu.
● It is commonly found in graphical user interfaces (GUIs) and sometimes in text-based
systems
● provides a straightforward and intuitive way to interact with software
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Form Fills
● The form fill-in interaction style is a structured method of collecting data
● receives user input through a series of labeled fields.
● This interface is commonly used when specific and standardized information is required,
such as in online applications, surveys, or data entry systems.
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Types of Human Memory

Sensory Memory
Short Term Memory

Long Term Memory

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Unit 4
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7 comendmands….Explain solicit early and ongoing user involvment
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MultiModal Interaction
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Cognitive WalkThrough
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GOMS
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Explain the Summative and Formative Evaluation techniques.
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Usability Testing In Labratory
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Unit 5
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