CS408 Human Computer Interaction Assignment No.1 Solution Spring Semester 2013

[Vuhelper]

Idea Solution:

Human processor model or MHP (Model Human Processor) is a cognitive modeling method used to calculate how long it takes to perform a certain task. Other cognitive modeling methods include parallel design, GOMS, and KLM (human-computer interaction).
The human processor model uses the cognitive, perceptual, and motor processors along with the visual image, working memory, and long term memory storages. A diagram is shown below. Each processor has a cycle time and each memory has a decay time. These values are also included below. By following the connections diagrammed below, along with the associated cycle or decay times, the time it takes a user to perform a certain task can be calculated
How To Calculate
The calculations depend on the ability to break down every step of a task into the basic process level. The more detailed the analysis the more accurate the model will be to predict human performance. The method for determining processes can be broken down into the following steps.
Write out main steps based on: a working prototype, simulation, step by step walk-through of all steps
Clearly identify the specific task and method to accomplish that task
For each final step identify sub-levels down to a basic process (in the diagram or chart below)
Convert into pseudo code (writing out methods for each step)
List all assumptions (will be helpful as multiple iterations are completed)
Determine time of each operation (based on the table below)
Determine if operation times should be adjusted (slower for elderly, disability, unfamiliarity, etc.)
Sum up execution times
Iterate as needed and check with prototyping if possible