2003 Paper 9 Question 1

Human–Computer Interaction

(a) A visiting HCI lecturer in Cambridge, when approaching the Gates building,
sees the sign “Caution Site Entrance”. What does this illustrate about mental
models of the designers and viewers of the sign? [4 marks]

(b) On commencing his lecture, he must use the control interface shown below.
Describe briefly how to apply both a heuristic evaluation and cognitive
walkthrough to evaluate usability of this interface, identifying from each
method two usability problems. [12 marks]

(c) Sketch an alternative design for one of the screens. Describe a cognitive
dimensions trade-off that might occur in this alternative design. [4 marks]

LIGHTS MUSIC
ON Vol.+ Please Select a System Preset
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LIGHTS MUSIC System East VGA Input to Both
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System East VGA Input to West projector

this screen have the following PRESET 2 East VIDEO to East projector
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PRESET 3 Projectors

FIXED FUNCTIONS, at all times System West VGA Input to West projecto
PRESET 4 West VIDEO to East projector
AUDIO MUSIC
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PRESET 5 video, or OHP type presentation
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Screen A Screen B

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Scene ALL
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