Investigating the human-computer interface using the Datalogger
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Investigating the human-computer interface using the Datalogger S. J. WESTERMAN University ofHull, Hull, England S. HAMBLY, C. ALDER, and C. W. WYATT-MILLINGTON University ofBradford, Bradford, England and N.M.SHRYANE,C.M.CRAWSHAW, and G. R. J. HOCKEY University ofHull, Hull, England
Methods ofgathering user input data for investigations into human---computer interaction are considered. These include the use ofhuman monitors, "instrumentation" of computer programs, and the use of "background" keylogging software. The Datalogger is presented as an example of the latter method, which provides a time-stamped record ofkeypresses and mouse movement and allows the outcomes of user actions to be replayed. The application of psychological principles to the human-computer interface has been the subject of intense research interest over a number of years, and a good deal of evidence has been assembled relating to the cognitive ergonomic properties of computer systems (both hardware and software), the environments in which systems are used, specific system features, and the needs/ preferences of individual users (Eberts, 1994; Shneiderman, 1992). In addition, there now appears to be a growing concern within the computer industry with issues relating to usability (Microsoft, 1992; Nielsen, 1994). Guidelines (see, e.g., Smith & Mosier, 1986) and regulations (e.g., H.S.E., 1992) have been produced relating to the properties that define usable computer systems. While there is a need for many of these regulations and guidelines to be empirically defined, the improving capabilities of both hardware and software also inevitably continue to stimulate the need for research in this area. One of the difficulties with this enterprise, however, concerns the availability of precise performance data that pertain specifically to interface features of interest. There are a number of ways in which data may be gathered for such cognitive ergonomic/usability investigations (see Karat, 1988; Nielsen, 1993), including surveys and questionnaires (e.g., Mullins & Siegfried, 1993); verbal reports (e.g., Koenemann-Belliveau, Carroll, Rosson, & Singley,
This research was supported by Grant lED4/1/93 I I from the Department of Trade and Industry and the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council. Requests for reprints should be addressed to S.1. Westerman. Department of Psychology, University of Hull. Hull, HU6 7RX. England (e-mail: [email protected]).
1994); controlled experiments (e.g., Westerman, Davies, Glendon, Stammers, & Matthews, 1995); design reviews (e.g., Fischer, McCall, Ostwald, Reeves, & Shipman, 1994); formal analyses (e.g., Johnson, 1994); and production system analyses (e.g., Card, Moran, & Newell, 1983). One of the most powerful methods of investigation is keylogging. At its best, keylogging provides an unobtrusive method of obtaining quantitative data, which can be collected in normal working conditions without disrupting the performance ofthe user, and it therefore presents the possibility of longitudinal studies
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