Cognitivism Problems and User Interface

Paper Summary:

The writer explains that it is a great responsibility for the designer to understand and visualize the design of the software interface that is going to be selected or produced for the end user. The paper discusses the potential problems, for example the colors used, and gives suggestions of how best to use them. The writer suggests that the use of cognitive psychology, which involves the study of how our mental resources are used effectively to deal with information, is the best way to decide how to design user-friendly interfaces. The paper notes that the effects of cognitive limitations depend on many factors, such as type, complexity, discrimination and familiarity with the items to be remembered, besides the size and nature of the task to be performed with these items. In conclusion, the writer states that the application of cognitive guidelines sometimes produces satisfactory results, but that it is important to remember that they are based on a simple view of human cognition.

Table of Contents:
Cognitivism Problems and User Interface
Introduction
Criteria Problems Cited:
Screen Design
Response Time and Exhibition Interval
Messages
Color
Window Design
Help Systems
Access Mechanisms
Presentation Mechanisms
Integration
Problems Associated with Interface and the Communication Process
Using The Fundamentals Of Cognitive Psychology For Interface Design
Bibliography

From the Paper:

"The format of messages with warnings or explanations about mistakes is very important, both for beginner and expert users. This influences the user's acceptance of the system.
"The error messages correct distractions or, even, incorrect comprehension. They must be specific and precise, avoid codes, and appear in the exact moment the user makes a mistake. These messages must present a constructive and positive orientation, be informal, and contain sentences directed to the user him/herself. They must also present a physical format adequate to each condition or situation, and maintain some consistency as far as visual format (position and grammatical format) is concerned."

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