Title: User interface preferences of young Jordanians using tablet devices

Authors: Ahmed Al-Sa'di; Dave Parry; Philip D. Carter

Addresses: School of Engineering, Computer and Mathematical Sciences, AUT University, Auckland, Private Bag 92006, New Zealand ' School of Engineering, Computer and Mathematical Sciences, AUT University, Auckland, Private Bag 92006, New Zealand ' School of Engineering, Computer and Mathematical Sciences, AUT University, Auckland, Private Bag 92006, New Zealand

Abstract: We aimed to establish Arabic user interface (UI) guidelines for tablet PCs (tablets). This paper presents the findings of two studies with 21 Arabic-speaking Jordanian students to gauge their preferences. Initial UI design guidelines were formulated for font type, size, colour, text alignment, menu and button type. Gender differences were found in font type preferences as well as the desire to customise the application's appearance. Sensibilities around religious symbols were also discovered. The use of coaching and think-aloud in the usability approach assisted in allowing the research to be appropriately sensitive to the beliefs and culture of the subjects. It is anticipated that the research findings will help software companies in Jordan and other Arabic-speaking nations to enhance UI for Arabic mobile and tablet applications.

Keywords: user interface; Arabic users; usability; tablet PCs; gender; educational application.

DOI: 10.1504/IJTEL.2018.092703

International Journal of Technology Enhanced Learning, 2018 Vol.10 No.3, pp.202 - 217

Received: 28 Apr 2017
Accepted: 04 Aug 2017

Published online: 28 Jun 2018 *

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