bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does Rotary Pursuit Data Predict Mouse Task Performance? a Pilot Study
Authors: Cheong Yuen-Keen , Pham Son T. , Phan Lan T. , Shehab Randa L.
Published: January 2012

Knight & Salvendy (1992) suggested that performance of mouse task depends on precision control and arm-hand steadiness. However, the claims lacked empirical support. This pilot study collected rotary pursuit data, measured by time-on-target (TOT), to assess participants' precision control ability. Performance of mouse task was operationalized using a Fitts' pointing task. Stepwise multiple regression revealed target diameter (D), distance amplitude (A), and TOT contributed to the variability of movement time (MT). Despite highly significant relations, the regression coefficients were so small that they offered little practical value. However, the results indicated that precision control ability is indeed predictive of the performance of mouse task. Several recommendations were made for subsequent studies, they include (i) psychomotor ability should be assessed using multiple trials, (ii) a wider range of ID values should be tested with, (iii) a multi-directional Fitts' paradigm should be employed, and (iv) the mouse task should be more representative of the direct manipulation paradigm.
Trend Analysis of the International Journal of Human-Computer Interaction from 1989 to 2004
Authors: Neumann John , Ross Jennifer M. , Terrence Peter , Mouloua Mustapha
Published: January 2012

This report looks at the research trends over the years 1989 — 2004 as published in the International Journal of Human Computer Interaction (HCI). Over this time period, there has been a concerned focus by scholars and practitioners to bring issues such as interface design, usability engineering, human information processing, and user-centric system development into the mainstream consciousness of engineers and developers. Our research aims to provide information to both scholars and developers on the past and current trends in the growing field of HCI. Using the PsycINFO journal database, we compiled an extensive Excel workbook containing relevant information on all the articles appearing in the journal since its inception. We were then able to classify each document using the ACM SIGCHI taxonomy, developed by Hewett, et al. This taxonomy permits classification of articles based on six factors, within one of 17 possible categories. Several other dimensions were examined including year & period of publication (1989–1993; 1994–1999; 2000–2004), author affiliation, geographic location, number of empirical studies per paper, and average sample size per study. We also reported the classifications of each article as reported by PsycINFO. Besides noting the clear growth in the total number of articles published each period, our results indicate that the field of Human Computer Interaction has seen changes in research focus. Current trends point to an increase in research focusing on developmental processes, usability evaluation methods, human communication and interaction, and applications. Another trend shows a notable decrease in empirical studies using human participants over the 15-year period.
Mirp: A Wearable Tool for Evaluating Effectiveness of Information Display
Authors: Stokes John F. , Devine Marlene A.
Published: January 2012

Traditional approaches to HMI design focus on the use of visual displays and manual inputs, but these do not take advantage of the full range of means by which humans can perceive and interact with their environment. For wearable computing systems, the selection of modalities depends greatly on the proper consideration of human cognitive capabilities. The Multimodal Interface Research Platform (MIRP) is a wearable platform for evaluating task-relevant human performance by presenting information using three modalities: Visual (via head mounted display), Auditory (via earphones), and Haptic (via four vibrating actuators on the shoulders). Within the context of a predetermined task scenario, MIRP is able to monitor and record the user's interactions with the system and collect reaction time and a coarse accuracy determination of whether a message was understood. This enables observations about simple reaction time with respect to different alert/message modalities, as well as inferences about their understandability.
The Validity of Human and Computerized Writing Assessment
Authors: Boring Ronald Laurids
Published: January 2012

This paper summarizes an experiment designed to assess the validity of essay grading between holistic and analytic human graders and a computerized grader based on latent semantic analysis. The validity of the grade was gauged by the extent to which the student's knowledge of the topic correlated with the grader's expert knowledge. To assess knowledge, Pathfinder networks were generated by the student essay writers, the holistic and analytic graders, and the computerized grader. It was found that the computer generated grades more closely matched the definition of valid grading than did human generated grades.
Evaluation of Threat by Police Officers: Initial Findings
Authors: Santos Karen A. Delos , Stafford Shawn C. , Szalma James L. , Oron-Gilad Tal , Hancock P.A.
Published: January 2012

Police officers' threat perception of static images was examined using images reflecting the range of five threat categories on which police officers are trained. Thirteen experienced officers from a police departments in the southeastern United States participated in this study. Officers rated their perceived threat level for 110 images that were presented to them on a laptop computer. Each of these images was rated twice by each officer. Officers used all five categories to rate the stimuli, and their responses to the extremes (images rated as 1 or 5) were faster than responses to more ambiguous stimuli in the other categories. These results were generally consistent with predictions based on Fuzzy Signal Detection Theory. Further studies will evaluate performance with these images in the context of a signal detection task. Once fully developed, this tool could be used to evaluate new recruits' decision-making process before given the green light to carry a badge. These assessments could also be used as a modified training tool for experienced officers if the stimuli were to be placed in a semiimmersive environment.
Fatal Errors: Case Study Involving Medication Labeling
Authors: Cohen H. Harvey , LaRue Cindy A.
Published: January 2012

Our forensic human factors firm was retained to research the facts and formulate an opinion about a series of errors that resulted in an incorrect intravenous bag being used on a hospitalized patient. The patient died as a result of the administration of this drug. We were asked to explore the issue of errors made in administering medications and to provide an opinion specifically regarding the labeling of the subject intravenous bag product. In the process of exploring those issues, we also assessed the frequency of this type of error involving product labeling and packaging of drugs and why these errors are made by trained professionals. From our research into medical error statistics, theories of human error, and design principles for product labels, we provided recommendations for improving the labeling and packaging which, if implemented, would most likely help to reduce these types of errors.
The Development, Application, and Limitations of 3D Human Simulations in Fall Accidents
Authors: Sloan Gary David
Published: January 2012

A tool that predicts the trajectories of linked human body segments on the basis of their inertial properties could be useful in the analysis of fall accidents. In order to be of value in forensic applications, relevant attributes of both the plaintiff and accident site must be modeled at some requisite level of fidelity. By systematically varying different attributes of the model, e.g., avatar posture, body segment velocity, coefficient-of-friction between modeled treads and footwear, it is possible to examine the likely consequences on body-segment trajectories. Trajectories and collisions can then be compared with patterns of injury, plaintiff testimony, and witness accounts.
Intersection Right-of-Way: What is an Immediate Hazard?
Authors: Ayres T. J. , Kelkar R. , Kennett K.B.
Published: January 2012

Vehicle codes require that a driver entering an intersection should yield right-of-way if an approaching vehicle is close enough to be an immediate hazard. This paper discusses a framework for contributions from human factors and vehicle kinematics to right-of-way questions, based on defining immediate hazard as a situation requiring an aggressive avoidance maneuver. A variety of issues that arise can be addressed with existing technical literature, while others suggest a role for further empirical research. Quantitative analyses reveal the relative importance of factors such as distance perception, response latency and initial speed.
Evaluation of Drug Label Designs Using Eye Tracking
Authors: Bojko Agnieszka , Gaddy Catherine , Lew Gavin , Quinn Amy , Israelski Edmond
Published: January 2012

Eye movement measures and conventional performance metrics were used to compare existing drug labels to a new label template that was created based on human factors principles and user research. Twenty pharmacy practitioners were asked to locate a particular drug among others using sets of existing labels and their redesigned counterparts. For most tasks, the new design led to faster responses, either due to a decrease in the number of fixations required to complete a task or a decrease in the mean fixation length. The number and sequence of fixations within a single label and across labels (used as indicators of search efficiency) and fixation duration (used as a measure of information processing efficiency) provided insight into the origins of the noted speed improvements, helping assess which of the multiple design changes introduced in the new template had impact on performance. Application of eye tracking to redesign evaluation is discussed.
Examining Issues in Communicating Patient Care Information Across Shifts in a Critical Care Setting
Authors: Sharit Joseph , McCane Lorgia , Thevenin Deborah M. , Barach Paul
Published: January 2012

This study addresses issues associated with sign-out reports occurring during shift changes in the pediatric intensive care unit of a large metropolitan hospital. The issues include the need for organizing our knowledge concerning the types of errors that providers are susceptible to during the sign-out process, the roles of personality, experience, and cultural factors, particularly as they may affect the incoming provider's inquisitiveness, and the potential impact on patient care of various different methods of performing sign-outs. We observed eight outgoing nurses and four residents who gave sign-out reports, and conducted eight semi-structured interviews with nurses, residents, nurse managers, and attending physicians. The results revealed important and intricate relationships among many of the variables that were investigated and suggested a number of interventions that might improve the sign-out process. Overall, our data on shift change sign-outs in an acute care setting confirmed the resiliency of health care providers and their capability for managing patient care under extremely demanding conditions.
The Position of the German Association of Biomedical Engineering on ‘Ergonomics in Medical Technologies’
Authors: Matern U.
Published: January 2012

With an increasing employment of technology the medical quality of treatment may rise. But, at the same time, the complexity of the medical equipment rises as well. This leads to an increase of the required interactions between user and technology. Therefore, a higher work loading for the medical and nursing personal is consequential. New requirements to the safety and the quality of use of medical devices and systems result from the increasing employment of technology. For the acquisition of devices users and operators need to pay attention to the possible sources of error in handling and use as well as to the possibility to decrease operating and process costs by foresighted purchase decisions. The German Association of Biomedical Engineering (DGBMT) considered the ergonomics of medical products as an important topic and established the Technical Committee of Ergonomics in Medical Engineering. The members of this technical committee compiled a paper describing the most important issues and intentions being partly presented in the following.
Home Cholesterol Test Kits: Helpful or Harmful?
Authors: Surabattula Deepti , Harvey Craig M. , Rood Jennifer C. , Aghazadeh Fereydoun
Published: January 2012

A home health test kit is a medical test approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration that can be purchased without a prescription and used in the privacy of the house. Release of home health testing kits into the market has enabled people to take care of their own health. Misinterpretation of results and delays in treatments are the major concerns of the doctors. In the present study, two cholesterol test kits, Accuchek® Instant plus® and Home Access® Instant Cholesterol Test, were compared. This research focused on user errors and clinical accuracy of the kits. The study was conducted with 30 participants, 15 men and 15 women. Participants tested their overall cholesterol level with both kits. In addition, a clinical cholesterol evaluation, the medical gold standard, was performed. The accuracy of both test kits was evaluated by comparing each of the test kit results with the clinical evaluation. The results of the study showed that inaccuracy of the test kit results did not depend on the type of the test kit used; however, the Accuchek® Instant plus® resulted in a greater correlation between the clinical results and test kit results regardless of the number of user errors.
Informing Accessible Design Through Selfreported Quality of Visual Health
Authors: Leonard V. Kathlene , Edwards Paula J. , Jacko Julie A.
Published: January 2012

This study investigates the potential utility of the VFQ-25 as an alternative to clinically acquired measures of visual function for investigations of computer-based performance. While clinical measures of visual function have been used as predictors of performance on psychomotor tasks for people with impaired vision, the VFQ-25 represents a low cost, easy-to-administer alternative. In this study, participants with Age-related Macular Degeneration and controls responded to the VFQ-25 and completed a drag-and-drop task with different feedback modalities. Based on VFQ scores, a hierarchical clustering algorithm was used to generate five distinct participant groups. Statistical comparisons of performance between the groups under each feedback condition confirmed the efficacy of the VFQ-25 as a tool for classifying user interaction. Consistent with previous studies comparing performance based solely on visual acuity, these results encourage the use of the VFQ-25 in research and design in circumstances that are not conducive to gathering clinically acquired measures.
A Non-Linear Relationship between Controller Workload and Traffic Count
Authors: Lee Paul U.
Published: January 2012

Controller workload has been a focal topic in air traffic management research because it is considered a key limiting factor to capacity increase in air traffic operations. Because workload ratings are subjective and highly prone to individual differences, some researchers have tried to replace workload with more objective metrics, such as aircraft count. A significant caveat in substituting these metrics for workload ratings, however, is that their relationships are non-linear. For example, as the number of aircraft increases linearly, the controller's perceived workload jumps from low to high at a certain traffic threshold, resulting in a stepfunction increase in workload with respect to aircraft count, suggesting that controllers perceive workload categorically. The non-linear relationship between workload and aircraft count has been validated using data collected from a recent study on the En Route Free Maneuvering concept element (Lee, Prevot, Mercer, Smith, & Palmer, 2005). The results suggest that objective metrics, such as aircraft count, may not be used interchangeably with subjective workload. In addition, any estimation on workload should not be extrapolated from a set of workload measures taken from an experiment since the extrapolated workload is likely to significantly underestimate workload.
A Hybrid Agent-Control System Approach to Analyze Various Driving Behaviors
Authors: Lovell Stacy , Melhuish James
Published: January 2012

A large percentage of traffic problems occur due to risky or aggressive behavior by drivers (James, 2000). Aggressive driving, incidents of road rage, and following distance are some of the major concerns surrounding the issue, and are increasing in frequency and severity on America's roadways (Rathbone, 1999). An understanding of risky driving and its impact is required in order to help alleviate factors that contribute to these behaviors. Models of risky or aggressive behaviors of drivers allow us to study these effects and their impacts on highway safety, and can further help to identify levers (implicit and explicit) that influence these behaviors. This paper uses a cognitive agent model of human drivers as control systems to aid in the understanding of the effects of heterogeneous beliefs of risk, and the impacts of various driving behaviors on performance.
Characterization of Changes in Electrophysiological Activity in an Operational Environment
Authors: Mazaeva Natalia , Mathan Santosh , Dorneich Michael , Whitlow Stephen , Ververs Patricia May
Published: January 2012

The purpose of this study is to characterize differences in EEG collected under stationary conditions and that collected in mobile settings. EEG activity has not been evaluated in operational settings due to difficulties associated with processing of EEG in real-world settings such as real-time removal of artifacts, operational environments, and possible differences in EEG frequency associated with mobility. Utilization of EEG measures of cognitive activity in dynamic environments demands the use of real-time algorithms of signal decontamination and characterization of specific components of EEG activity. In this study, EEG was collected and filtered in real-time in a set of controlled stationary scenarios and similar mobile scenarios in order to characterize differences in EEG power, electrode locations, and individual differences under mobility while participants performed tasks of variable difficulty. Results illustrate that the lack of systematic differences in EEG spectral power associated with mobility may point to feasibility of successful collection and analysis of EEG activity in such settings.
A Method for Exploring Teamwork Modeling and Assessment within a Multiplayer Game
Authors: Haimson Craig , Diller David , Kusumoto Laura
Published: January 2012

Massively multi-player games (MMPGs) have the potential to enable training at a level of participation, intensity, and fidelity previously unrealized. As a first step towards the implementation of automated performance measurement technology for MMPGs, we explored an approach to developing training and assessment of team performance during urban infantry operations simulated within the Asymmetric Warfare Team Training Technology (AW-VTT) under development by Forterra Systems and RDECOM-STTC. Our method entailed (1) mapping a theoretical framework to established Army doctrine, (2) mapping doctrinal descriptions to specific activities within a simple yet operationally-valid scenario, and (3) developing rule-based descriptions of these activities and formally representing them within finite state networks to validate their consistency and completeness. We then enacted the scenario within AW-VTT to demonstrate the environment's capability for simulating the behaviors required for assessment of teamwork in this scenario. We describe this approach and discuss lessons learned.
Developing and Anthropomorphic Tendencies Scale
Authors: Chin Matthew G. , Yordon Ryan E. , Clark Bryan R. , Ballion Tatiana , Dolezal Michael J. , Shumaker Randall , Finkelstein Neal
Published: January 2012

A 208-item scale was developed to measure self-reported anthropomorphic tendencies during interactions with various non-human entities. The potential targets of anthropomorphism included technology-laden machines such as computers, other objects such as backpacks, living things such as houseplants, and abstract entities such as a god or higher power. Scale items assessed the degree to which participants agreed with statements regarding the perceived attributes of the entities, speech directed toward the entities and the treatment of the entities. A factor analysis suggested that the scale measures four independent types of anthropomorphism: “extreme” anthropomorphic tendencies, anthropomorphism of a god or higher power, anthropomorphism of pets, and “negative” anthropomorphism. Further analyses indicated that anthropomorphic tendencies were self-reported when pertaining to pets and a god or higher power. However, participants tended not to self-report inappropriate “negativeâ” anthropomorphism toward computers, cars, microwaves, etc. These disparate findings appear to be due to social desirability of anthropomorphism.
Co-Contraction Recruitment and Spinal Load during Isometric Pushing Tasks
Authors: Granata Kevin , Lee Patrick , Franklin Tim
Published: January 2012

Pushing and pulling tasks account for 20% of occupational low-back injury claims but few studies have investigated the neuromuscular control of the spine during these tasks. Primary torso muscle groups recruited during pushing tasks include the rectus abdominis and external obliques. However, theoretical analyses suggest that co-contraction of the paraspinal muscles is necessary to stabilize the spine during flexion exertions. A biomechanical model was implemented to estimate co-contraction and spinal load from measured surface EMG and trunk moment data recorded during trunk flexion and extension exertions. Results demonstrate that co-contraction during flexion exertions was approximately twice the value of co-contraction during extension. Co-contraction accounted for up to 47% of the total spinal load during flexion exertions and spinal load attributed to co-contraction was nearly 50% greater during flexion than during extension exertions despite similar levels of trunk moment. Results underscore the need to consider neuromuscular recruitment when evaluating biomechanical risks. Keywords: Spine; Co-contraction; Push; Manual Materials Handling; Biomechanics
Time Pressure and Mental Workload Effects on Perceived Workload and Key Strike Force during Typing
Authors: Hughes Laura E. , Babski-Reeves Kari
Published: January 2012

Although physical factors are accepted as risks in the development of work related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs), psychosocial factors may explain some of the remaining differences in susceptibility to WMSDs. The following study examined the effects of two psychosocial factors, mental workload and time pressure, on typing performance, perceived workload, and key strike force while typing. The majority of the key strike force measures increased with increases in time pressure and mental workload. Perceived overall workload (as measured using SWAT) increased with mental workload and time pressure, and typing performance decreased. Additionally, gender, locus of control, and perceived stress level did not influence outcomes. Physical risk factors may be mediated by psychosocial factors to increase risk for WMSD development in the upper extremities. Therefore, both physical and psychosocial aspects of work environments should be considered when designing jobs and work tasks to prevent injuries and improve productivity.
Arm Posture and Muscular Activity while Inserting and Aiming with Laparoscopic Tools
Authors: Jung Trejo, A.E. , Hallbeck M.S.
Published: January 2012

Two laparoscopic tools, a scissor-type grasper and an ergonomically designed grasper, were compared in terms of arm posture and muscle activity during insertion into a trocar and during a standardized aiming task. Participants were asked to insert a laparoscopic tool into a simulated abdomen and hit five cross-shaped targets using their dominant hand; similar to reaching an organ during laparoscopic surgery. Twenty-six right-handed novice participants volunteered for the study. Two electrogoniometers were used to measure wrist flexion/extension, wrist deviation, and elbow flexion/extension angles. Six surface electrodes were used to measure %MVE of wrist flexors, wrist extensors, biceps brachii, triceps brachii, deltoid, and upper trapezius. The conditions used were five target positions, two touch screen monitor angles, and five hand postures. The scissors-type tool caused the largest wrist flexion, but the smallest %MVE from the wrist flexors. The method of gripping the tools was the most important factor determining joint angles and muscular load during the insertion and aiming tasks.
Development of a Multi-Joint Postural Exposure Assessment Tool for Job Rotation
Authors: Davis Kermit , Kotowski Susan , Jorgensen Michael
Published: January 2012

With practitioners more often adopting job rotation practices in their facilities, there is an increased necessity for effective methods to measure the complex exposures in the diverse jobs that may be selected for a particular job rotation scheme. Potential methods need to be both versatile and simple, ensuring easy application and low cost. The current study developed and evaluated the potential of a video-based analysis method that combines the exposure measure of four body regions: neck, shoulder, low back, and hand/wrist. Three experienced analysts assessed the postural load for all jobs within fifteen different job rotation schemes at a manufacturing facility. Several potential indices were developed, computed and discussed. Overall, the video-based analyses evaluated in the current study provide an easy and cost effective method that allows a practitioner to compare multiple stressors at one time. Future work will evaluate the effectiveness of the method in actually controlling musculoskeletal disorders as well as incorporate other risk factor exposures such as forces, repetition and motion.
Computer and Information Security Culture: Findings from two Studies
Authors: Kraemer Sara , Carayon Pascale
Published: January 2012

This research outlines some dimensions of computer and information security (CIS) culture. Two exploratory studies were conducted to identify the various dimensions of CIS culture. One study included an industry workgroup consisting of six CIS managers and specialists. The second study consisted of individual interviews with eight CIS managers and managers and eight network administrators. The workgroup and CIS managers and network administrators provided a preliminary list of elements in CIS culture dimensions, including: employee participation, training, hiring practices, reward system, management commitment, and communication and feedback.
Separate Sides of the Same Coin: Organization Design and (Good) Design of a Decision Support Tool
Authors: Heacox Nancy J. , Handley Holly A.H.
Published: January 2012

A decision support tool has been designed to allow operations planners to incorporate organizational and cultural factors into the building of effective multinational mission forces. Development of this tool was guided by principles from Human Factors and the Congruence Model of organizations. A user-centered design process was employed. The work process of the target user was analyzed and formed the basis for the steps in the tool's work process. The tool contains several databases that allow a user to build alternate task-staffing configurations associated with a mission plan. The tool simulates the projected performance of these configurations, based on characteristics of tasks, assigned units, and command arrangements. Planners are provided with a macro-level perspective of the mission structure as the operation is staffed; the tool enables them to construct the “best fit” from the operational requirements and the tasking resources at their disposal.
Development and Evaluation of a System for Wearable Audio Navigation
Authors: Walker Bruce N. , Lindsay Jeffrey
Published: January 2012

If it is not possible to use vision when navigating through one's surroundings, moving safely and effectively becomes much harder. In such cases, non-speech audio cues can serve as navigation beacons, as well as denote features in the environment relevant to the user. This paper outlines and summarizes the development and evaluation of a System for Wearable Audio Navigation (SWAN), including an overview of completed, ongoing, and future research relating to the sounds used, the human-system interaction, output hardware, divided attention, and task effects.
Metacognitive Judgments in a Simulated Luggage Screening Task
Authors: McCarley Jason S. , Gosney Jessica
Published: January 2012

A pair of experiments examined the accuracy and potential role of predictive metacognitive judgments in a simulated baggage screening task. Procedure was modeled after the ease-of-learning task (Underwood, 1966). Subjects searched for knives hidden in x-ray images of passenger bags. Before performing the search task, subjects viewed each stimulus without the embedded target and rated the likelihood of finding the target if it was hidden in that image. Experiment 1 used a 2IFC search task. Experiment 2 used a speeded yes-no search procedure. Results suggest that predictive metacognitive judgments are only modestly accurate, but that the information on which such judgments are based is nonetheless used to regulate search behavior
The Role of Motion in Object Recognition
Authors: Harrison Charles L. , Gillan Douglas J.
Published: January 2012

Do motion cues influence object recognition when contour information is available? Three experiments examined four motion conditions for a variety of objects (no motion, random motion, atypical motion, and typical motion) when contour information was also available. A typical motion pattern was one that would normally be associated with the moving object, whereas atypical motion involved a regular motion pattern that was typical for one object in the set of 15 used in the experiments, but wasn't associated with the object in motion. In Experiments 1 and 2, the objects were made difficult to recognize, by eliminating vertices and by using small representations, respectively. In Experiment 3, large, complete contour wire frame pictures were used. In all experiments, recognition speed and accuracy were best for the typical motion condition and second best for the atypical motion. With easily-recognized objects, random motion led to faster recognition than no motion, whereas, with difficult recognition, random motion led to slower response times than no motion. The results are interpreted with a three-process model. Applications to the design of computer icons, signage, and camouflage are discussed
The Influence of Brightness Highlighting on Eye Movements within a Cockpit Display of Traffic Information
Authors: Liao Min-Ju , Granada Stacy , Johnson Walter W.
Published: January 2012

Several experiments were conducted to examine the effect of brightness highlighting on search of a target aircraft among distractor aircraft within a cockpit display of traffic information (CDTI). The present experiment partially replicated the design of one of these experiments, adding an examination of eye movements. The display presented homogenous all bright, all dim, or mixed bright and dim aircraft. Within the mixed display, target aircraft were non-predictive and either bright or dim. Results showed that with the mixed display, participants yielded slower detection times, exhibited more eye fixations, and searched with longer paths, compared to the homogenous all bright or dim displays. The duration of the fixation and the speed of eye movements did not show any difference between the homogeneous and mixed displays. The present detection time analysis did not replicate previous experimental results and this is likely due to the fewer trials given in the current experiment. The present results demonstrated how using highlighting to segregate information domains may impose costs on visual search performance in the early stages of a search task.
Evaluating the Accessibility of Laser Printers
Authors: Rodriguez Michael A. , Van Buskirk Ron
Published: January 2012

The US Rehabilitation Act was amended by Congress in 1998 to require Federal agencies to make their electronic and information technology accessible to people with disabilities. IBM is committed to supporting accessible technology. IBM Printing Systems Division and the IBM Accessibility Center have developed checklists, guidelines and methodologies for evaluating printers with respect to the Section 508 Accessibility Requirements (Section 508 home page). This paper describes the methodology and available tools for evaluating the accessibility of laser printers.
Analysis of Assembly Instructions for Children: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly
Authors: Martin Cortney V. , Smith-Jackson Tonya L.
Published: January 2012

Building toys and models are vital for learning, yet accompanying assembly instructions are often confusing and difficult to use, especially for children. This exploratory study takes the first step toward developing a taxonomy of design variables and identifying features that may have the largest impact on the usability of pictorial assembly instructions. A secondary data analysis is employed comparing product ratings and reviews from an online retailer to the design factors of the corresponding instruction sets. Not surprisingly, results show a tremendous range of design formats and lack of standardization. However, several factors emerged that were associated more often with the instructions of highly rated products including pictures without text, color illustrations, structural and action diagrams, a higher number of instructions per frame, and one or two frames per page.
Design of Consumer Product Webpages: Experimental Investigations of Aesthetic and Performance Factors
Authors: Schmidt Kristi E. , Liu Yili
Published: January 2012

Consumer products are increasingly being purchased online, yet the surge in e-commerce for the sale of retail products was not paired with widespread design savvy or consideration for usability. In this paper, two experimental investigations of aesthetic and performance factors affecting the design of consumer product webpages yield results that designers can use to help create webpages that are useful, usable, and desirable in the competitive e-commerce environment. This research shows how aesthetic and overall preference, ease of use, and interaction speed vary as a function of webpage link color and style, quantity of webpage information, loading speed, and display complexity. Aesthetic preference increases as column width, display complexity, and loading speed increase, and varies with link style. Ease of use and interaction time also vary with link style.
The Influence of Web-Writing Styles on Reader' Mental Text Representation
Authors: Tran Tuan Q. , Elgin Peter D. , Jones Keith S. , Raddatz Kimberly R. , Cady Elizabeth T.
Published: January 2012

The increasingly popular avenue of web-based distance education places high demand on distance educators to format web pages that facilitate learning. Guidelines regarding appropriate writing styles for web-based distance education, however, do not currently exist. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of four different writing styles on the reader's mental representation of web text. Participants will study hypertext written in one of four web-writing styles (e.g., concise, scannable, objective, and combined) and then be given a cued association task intended to measure participants' mental representations of the studied information. It is hypothesized that the scannable and combined styles will bias readers to scan rather than elaborately read which may result in less dense mental representations relative to the objective and concise writing styles. Further, the use of more descriptors in the objective writing style will lead to better integration of ideas and more dense mental representations than the concise writing style.
The Effect of Perceived Consequence on Automation Reliance in a Human-Automation Collaborative System
Authors: Ezer Neta , Fisk Arthur D. , Rogers Wendy A.
Published: January 2012

As automated systems are entering new environments, some of which involve high-risk decision making, it is critical that we understand in what situations people will or will not rely on the recommendations of automated decision aids. It is theorized that in deciding whether to trust automation people consider perceived consequence, weighing the cost associated with inappropriate action or inaction and the psychological cost associated with verifying the aid. This study will address the effect that perceived consequence has on attitudes and behavior toward decision aids by exposing participants to different levels of consequence, manipulated by the cost associated with making a mistake and the cost needed to verify the aid. It is expected that as the cost of making a mistake increases and the cost of verifying the automation decreases, trust and reliance in a decision aid will decrease.
Normal and Hard Braking Behavior at Stop Signs and Traffic Signals
Authors: Lee Suzanne E. , Brown Sarah B. , Perez Miguel A. , Doerzaph Zachary R. , Neale Vicki L.
Published: January 2012

A testbed intersection violation warning system was developed to address the problem of intersection crashes. The effectiveness of such systems is fundamentally dependent on the driver-braking model used to decide if a warning should be issued to the driver. If the model is unrealistic, drivers can either be annoyed due to assumed braking levels that are too low, or can be warned too late if braking expectations are too high. Initial algorithm development relied on data from the Collision Avoidance Metrics Partnership (CAMP) Forward Collision Warning (FCW) project. However, it was unknown whether the CAMP data (collected in the presence of stopped lead vehicles) would be applicable to the intersection problem (e.g., will drivers respond similarly to red traffic signals and stopped lead vehicles). Braking profile and performance tests were thus conducted to determine the applicability of the CAMP FCW results to the intersection violation warning.
Using Support Vector Machines for Lane-Change Detection
Authors: Mandalia Hiren M. , Salvucci Mandalia Dario D.
Published: January 2012

Driving is a complex task that requires constant attention, and intelligent transportation systems that support drivers in this task must continually infer driver intentions to produce reasonable, safe responses. In this paper we describe a technique for inferring driver intentions, specifically the intention to change lanes, using support vector machines (SVMs). The technique was applied to experimental data from an instrumented vehicle that included both behavioral data and environmental data. Comparing these results to recent results using a novel “mind-tracking” technique, we found that SVMs outperformed earlier algorithms and proved especially effective in early detection of driver lane changes.
Descriptive Analysis of Light Vehicle-Heavy Vehicle Interactions from the Light Vehicle Driver's Perspective
Authors: Hanowski Richard J. , Hickman Jeffery S. , Olson Rebecca L. , Dingus Thomas A. , Carroll Robert J.
Published: January 2012

A naturalistic driving study involving 100 light vehicles equipped with video cameras and other data collection equipment was recently completed. The resulting data set was searched to identify critical incidents involving both light vehicles (LVs) and heavy vehicles (HVs). Each incident was coded on a number of dimensions including the type of incident (what happened) and the Critical Reason for the incident (why it happened). Goals of the analysis included gaining a better understanding of LVHV interactions and providing background information that would serve as a necessary prerequisite to the development of crash countermeasures. For 217 of the 246 LV-HV interaction incidents recorded, the event initiator was attributed to either the LV driver (64%) or the HV driver (36%). The most frequent Incident Type for LV driver initiated incidents was Late Braking for Stopped/Stopping Traffic (41.3%), followed by Lane Change Without Sufficient Gap (21.7%). The most frequently noted Critical Reasons for LV driver initiated incidents were Aggressive Driving Behavior (24.6%), Too Fast for Conditions (15.2%), and Internal Distraction (13.8%). Given that LV drivers were more likely to have initiated an incident, it is believed that efforts at addressing the LV-HV interaction problem should include focusing on the LV driver.
Physical Performance Issues for Humans in Space
Authors: Maida James
Published: January 2012

NASA has built human habitations for a trip to the moon and for low earth orbit. These habitations include Skylab, Shuttle and the International Space Station. We also have experience with the Russian station, Mir. Shuttle and the Lunar experiences are considered somewhat short term in nature, under 20 days, and do not really test nor answer the physical performance issues of long term human physical activity in space. We have some experience in long term human physical activity from Skylab, MIR and Space Station, but much more is needed to understand physical demands of working in space. Even more is needed for the long term lunar and planetary experience. We need more information about habitats, space suits and exploring in these environments.
An Analytical Framework for Assessing the Complexity of Human-Machine Systems
Authors: Lo Shuan , Helander Martin G.
Published: January 2012

This research explores the use of axiomatic design principles for analyzing coupling in human-machine systems. Coupling is a generic dimension of complexity, and coupling between user goals and user actions widens the gulf of execution. An analytical framework was constructed based on the concept of design domains. This framework formalizes the interaction between user goals, functional requirements, design parameters, and user actions. User goals and user actions describe tasks from a user's perspective. Functional requirements and design parameters describe system's structure from an engineering perspective. Design equations are used to as a notation for representing the interaction between these attributes, and as a tool for characterizing the degree of coupling. By providing a general and rational criterion, the proposed method is conceived as an analytical tool that design engineers can use for early evaluations.
Comparative Differential Rating — A Practical Method for Assessing User Preference among Design Alternatives
Authors: Nash Eric
Published: January 2012

During the early stages of designing user interfaces within the software industry, it is common for several alternatives to emerge before arriving at a final design. Although formative testing can be used to assess user preference among the alternatives, resource constraints imposed by the industry can easily render such testing impractical. This paper introduces comparative differential rating (CDR) as a simple, efficient formative testing method for assessing user preference among design alternatives. Users assign preference ratings to each alternative by making paired comparisons of the alternatives on a differential scale. Alternatives rated lower than the most highly rated alternative are discarded while those remaining are candidates for the final design. Unlike more complex paired comparison methods that use multiple criteria to obtain ratings, such as analytic hierarchy process (AHP), CDR is intended for simple, frequent cases early in the design process where multiple alternatives emerge and user preference is the only criteria of interest in determining the final design. In further contrast to AHP, CDR typically requires fewer comparisons, is measured on an interval scale, and is analyzed using inferential statistics.
Lag Sequential Analysis Using Pronet: Effects of Series Length and Noise
Authors: Kiekel Preston A. , Winner Jennifer
Published: January 2012

Procedural Networks (ProNet) is presented as a form of lag sequential analysis, but using the Pathfinder algorithm as its kernel. In general, Lag Sequential Analysis is a tool used to identify representative chains of events in a time series of event data. A simulation is used to compare the performance of ProNet, as sample size and noise are varied in the time series. Noise in the data leads to fewer hits, but does not affect false alarm rate. Increased sample size leads to fewer false alarms and more hits. The method is defined and developed, and future research is discussed.
Human Factors Challenges in After-Action Reviews in Distributed Simulation-Based Training
Authors: Salter William J. , Hoch Susannah , Freeman Jared
Published: January 2012

This paper discusses human factors issues in designing methods to develop and deliver After Action Reviews (AARs) in the Navy-sponsored Debriefing Distributed Simulation-Based Exercises (DDSBE) research program. DDSBE is intended to develop and test methods for collecting, analyzing, presenting, and distributing performance data in the emerging Navy distributed simulation training environment. In addition to research-driven AAR design, the program includes considerable software development: building a simulation testbed, developing and integrating automated and semi-automated data collection tools, and designing and implementing automated analysis methods. Considerable data will be collected automatically. Consequently, trainers will not be required to observe an aspect of performance to include it in an AAR. Although AARs are used after actual military actions and after live training, we confine our discussion to distributed simulation-based training, the focus of DDSBE.
Training Effects in a Sickness-Inducing Environment
Authors: Mouloua Mustapha , Smither Janan , Kennedy Robert C. , Kennedy Robert S. , Compton Daniel E. , Drexler Julie M.
Published: January 2012

The present study was conducted to empirically examine the effect of adaptation training and transfer of training on simulation sickness by inducing graded motion sickness through the systematic distortion of the relevant characteristics of three VR devices (VE, OKN, and Real-World Entertainment Ride). It was hypothesized that for people who are highly susceptible to motion-induced sickness, the perceptual adaptation training method would transfer from a controlled laboratory environment to a real-world situation. Ten participants from a previous laboratory study were tested on a real-world virtual reality entertainment device. The results showed that subjects who had experienced adaptation training on the optokinetic OKN device had lower dizziness scores on the real world game. However, subjects who had experienced adaptation training on the VE device (HMD) did not have lower dizziness scores. This pattern of results suggests that crossover training from controlled laboratory environments to real-world environments is likely to be one-directional and platform specific. Our present findings imply a technique for mitigating sickness through pre-adaptation training in sensory re-arrangement that is feasible and has major practical implications in business, industry, the military and the private sector, where motion sickness symptoms limit previous exposure.