To battle with economic challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, the US government implemented various measures to mitigate economic loss. From issuance of stimulus checks to reopening businesses, consumers had to constantly alter their behavior in response to government policies. Using anonymized card transactions and mobile device-based location tracking data, we analyze the factors that contribute to these behavior changes, focusing on stimulus check issuance and state-wide reopening. Our finding suggests that stimulus payment has a significant immediate effect of boosting spending, but it typically does not reverse a downward trend. State-wide reopening had a small effect on spending. Foot traffic increased gradually after stimulus check issuance, but only increased slightly after reopening, which also coincided or preceded several policy changes and confounding events (e.g., protests) in the US. We also find differences in the reaction to these policies in different regions in the US. Our results may be used to inform future economic recovery policies and their potential consumer response.
The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is a primary barrier to entry into US graduate programs for non-native English speakers. The goal of this study is to develop a GRE preparation mobile phone application for non-native English speakers through the human-centered design cycle. We conducted a Cognitive Task Analysis and Knowledge Audit for the Magoosh GRE App to identify the most difficult tasks while using the app. We proposed features to help with the most difficult tasks and implemented the most promising feature through iterative prototyping taking into account user feedback. Usability testing for the most recent prototype demonstrates the need for a GRE preparation app targeted at non-native English speakers. Results show that the additional functionality added in the prototype shows promise for assisting non-native English speakers in studying for the GRE.
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