A task analytic methodology for predicting ease of learning of interactive computer systems (TAMPEL)

Mohamed Khalifa, University of Pennsylvania

Abstract

The purpose of this thesis is to provide user interface designers with a methodology for predicting ease of learning. The proposed methodology is based upon sound theories of human behavior and follows a task analytic approach. The analysis of the tasks that could be performed with the user interface under consideration is used to identify the different cognitive skills that a particular learner needs to acquire in order to be capable of a skillful performance. Ease of learning is measured by the learning time, which is modeled as a function of the identified cognitive skills and their relative complexities. The complexity of a given cognitive skill is estimated as a function of the type of the skill and the way the skill is retrieved from long term memory. A pilot study, designed to test the predictive power of the methodology, has shown promising results with respect to how well the methodology predicts ease of learning. A follow-on study designed to test the validity of the methodology has verified the methodology's assumptions.

Subject Area

Management|Computer science|Psychology

Recommended Citation

Khalifa, Mohamed, "A task analytic methodology for predicting ease of learning of interactive computer systems (TAMPEL)" (1991). Dissertations available from ProQuest. AAI9200354.
https://repository.upenn.edu/dissertations/AAI9200354

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