Title: The effect of gender-related difference on human-centred performance using a mass assessment method

Authors: Robert C.C. Chen, Tin-Kai Chen

Addresses: Department of Design Theory and Innovation, Faculty of Art and Design, De Montfort University, Leicester, LE1 9BH, UK. ' Department of Design Theory and Innovation, Faculty of Art and Design, De Montfort University, Leicester, LE1 9BH, UK

Abstract: In this study, ||human-centred performance|| is defined as ||performance of natural body motion||. The study aims to reveal the effect of gender-related difference on human-centred performance using a Mass Assessment Method (MAM). First, a comprehensive literature review on Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) associated with gender-related difference is given. Thereafter, the analysis result shows consistence with current studies. In particular, the study has found that female computer users in normal usage group, i.e., using computer less than 60 h per week, might suffer from approximately 10% slower pointing time than males since females might not satisfy with operational effort than male subjects. Furthermore, male computer users in the intensive usage group are 17% slower in pointing time than those in the normal usage group. The result highlights an urgent need for the design innovation of an ordinary mouse. Finally, further improvement for the MAM and the Fitts| Law Generator (FLG) software are noted, and the design guideline for an alternative mouse is recommended.

Keywords: mass assessment method; Fitts law; ISO 9241; gender; HCI; human-computer interaction; human-centred performance; female computer users; male computer users; design innovation; product design; mouse design.

DOI: 10.1504/IJCAT.2008.021387

International Journal of Computer Applications in Technology, 2008 Vol.32 No.4, pp.322 - 333

Published online: 21 Nov 2008 *

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