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Dissertation
Navigation in a metaphorical computer interface: a study of analogical reasoning and mental models
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.), Drexel University
1992
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17918/00009793
Abstract
Today, many computer systems are designed with a metaphorical user interface, on the assumption that the similarity between the referent and target domains will make the systems easier to learn and use. In fact, research shows that metaphorical similarity is potentially detrimental when solving problems because the computer system cannot be completely isomorphic to the metaphor on which it is drawn. Learners of a "metaphorical" computer system are the subjects in this study. Three primary questions are addressed. First, are there differences in problem solving behavior among learners? Second, can performance differences be attributed to different mental models of the system? Third, can performance differences be traced to the level of a subject's computer knowledge? The data collection instruments are a computer experience survey, screen reconstruction and description exercises, and unobtrusive mouse-click and key stroke monitoring. A metaphorical user interface based on a Yellow Pages directory was developed with both metaphorical and non-metaphorical navigation methods. Sixty-seven subjects solved six tasks without prior training, were trained in a non-metaphorical navigation method, and then solved eight additional tasks. A cluster analysis, analyzing unobtrusive mouse-click data, generates striking results. Three groups of subjects with distinct interaction preferences are evident: metaphorical "page-turning", semi-metaphorical "icon-clicking", and non-metaphorical "page-jumping". While the literature would indicate that increasing computer experience would have a positive effect on experience. Neither are there differences among subjects in the measures of their initial declarative and procedural knowledge of the system. This study indicates that there are significant differences among people introduced to a metaphorical computer system that are not based on prior computer experience or solely on the metaphor employed.
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Details
- Title
- Navigation in a metaphorical computer interface
- Creators
- Lucy Wozny
- Contributors
- Gary W. Strong (Advisor) - Drexel University, Drexel University (1970-)
- Awarding Institution
- Drexel University
- Degree Awarded
- Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
- Publisher
- Drexel University; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Number of pages
- ix, 114 pages
- Resource Type
- Dissertation
- Language
- English
- Academic Unit
- College of Information Studies (1984-1995); Drexel University
- Other Identifier
- 991021889066404721