Cognitive Perspective on Human-Computer Interface Design

Abstract

This chapter focuses on the design of human-computer interface, particularly the software interface design, by examining the relationship between the functionality and features of the interface and the cognitive factors associated with the design of such interface. A design framework is proposed followed by an empirical study to validate some of the theoretical assumptions of the framework. The findings indicate that learners become more perceptually engaged when a multiple sensory-input interface is used. Our study also shows that building affective interaction at the perceptual level could significantly enhance learners’ perceptual engagement which further leads them to cognitive engagement. Guidelines for designing an effective interface are proposed. The significance of the study is discussed with some suggestions for future study.