Multimodal feedback for the acquisition of small targets

Cockburn, A. and Brewster, S. (2005) Multimodal feedback for the acquisition of small targets. Ergonomics, 48(9), pp. 1129-1150. (doi: 10.1080/00140130500197260)

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Publisher's URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/00140130500197260

Abstract

This paper examines how multimodal feedback assists small-target acquisition in graphical user interfaces. All combinations of three feedback modes are analysed: non-speech audio; tactile; and pseudo-haptic ‘sticky’ feedback. The tactile conditions used stimulation through vibration (rather than force-feedback), and the sticky conditions were implemented by dynamically reconfiguring mouse control-display gain as the cursor entered the target. Results show that for small, discretely located targets all feedback modes reduce targeting times, with stickiness providing substantial improvements. Furthermore, stickiness and tactile appear to combine well. However, the results of a more ecologically oriented menu-selection task show the need for caution, revealing that excessive feedback can damage interaction though ‘noise’ that interferes with the acquisition of neighbouring targets.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Brewster, Professor Stephen
Authors: Cockburn, A., and Brewster, S.
College/School:College of Science and Engineering > School of Computing Science
Journal Name:Ergonomics
Publisher:Taylor & Francis
ISSN:0014-0139
ISSN (Online):1366-5847
Published Online:20 February 2007

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Project CodeAward NoProject NamePrincipal InvestigatorFunder's NameFunder RefLead Dept
353141An investigation of multimodal interaction with tactile displaysStephen BrewsterEngineering & Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC)GR/S53244/01COM - COMPUTING SCIENCE