G063 - HCI Design
Perception, Attention, Memory & Learning
(PALM)
Learning Objectives:
At the end of this topic you should be able to:
• indicate how perception, attention, memory, and
learning affect HCI design choices
HCI Design Factors
In trying to design an HCI which:
• is easy to learn
• is easy to remember
• reduces user error
Factors to be considered will be:
• Perception
• Attention
• Memory
• Learning
Perception
• is the input from sight and sound (& touch?)
• user will have preconceived ideas :
– colours: green for go, red for stop
– sound: certain sounds are perceived as happy or sad
– touch: key ‘click’ when pressed  haptic feedback
• need to take preconceived ideas into account:
match = user thinks they can use the system
 match = user may think they can’t use the system
Attention
• a user may have a limited attention span;
So, to maintain attention:
• use consistent & logical layout
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grouping of similar items - logical menu structure
familiar data entry - top to bottom, left to right
consistency - buttons & menus in the same place (on all screens/web pages)
consistent use of colour
• uncluttered screen layout:
– too much information  disinterested user (short attention span)
• clear labels used, salient points obvious
• to gain attention use:
– flashing text, pop-up messages, sounds, …..
Memory
• long-term, short-term & physical memories used
• an interface may be used infrequently
– so can’t rely on user remembering how to use system
–  need to use links to pre-existing knowledge
• i.e. use user’s mental model
•  physical & short term memory will be involved
– designer must ensure short term memory is used
• ‘keep it simple and recognisable’
To aid memory:
• screen layouts should be consistent & uncluttered
• use of colour should be consistent and sensible
• design should link to pre-existing knowledge
Learning
• user may not use the system often
• user may not have received training
•  system must be intuitive
Try to use:
• uncluttered screen layout
• group items on screen
– so layout matches way user works
• simplistic language
• on-screen help