Human Computer Interaction

To help with your understanding, make a copy of this g.doc Heuristics for HCI - Gathering examples

• Use the AirNz website

• Find (write or screen capture) an example and explain how this is an example of the heuristic on the g.doc

If you need some clarification, refer back to the slides, CS Field Guide, or your notes

Now you are an expert, make a copy of this g.doc Heuristics for HCI - In Reverse

• Find examples (Write or screen capture) on the Woolworths Online website and work out which heuristic this does/does not meet and explain.

• Then compare and contrast the internal and external consistency with New World Online

People often confuse the following heuristics, make sure you know the difference:

• “Error Prevention and Help” with “Users Recognise, Diagnose, and Recover from Errors”

  • Help Users Recognise, Diagnose, and Recover from Errors will often be marked in RED. An error has happened and the user is informed.

  • Error Prevention will often be highlighted in GREY to show you cannot interact with them. This will prevent the user from ever entering a state in which an error can occur.

• “Flexibility and Efficiency of Use” and “User Control and Freedom”

  • Flexibility and Efficiency of Use is about being able to do stuff lots of different ways. Look for filters, shortcuts (possibly keyboard), personalisation options. 

  • User Control and Freedom is about being able to CANCEL, UNDO, REMOVE or GO BACK/RETURN. Look for little red x's, Breadcrumb navigation, or any buttons labeled with the key words above.

You will need to study your own interface before the exam. This worksheet will walk you through choosing a good interface along with some examples.

The website Game Accessibility Guidelines (Link) is a comprehensive, developer-friendly online resource dedicated to helping game creators make their video games more accessible to a wider range of players, including those with disabilities. Each guideline explains why it's important and how it can be implemented, often with examples. These guideline can be applied to a wide range of applications including websites, software, and even physical product interfaces.