All posts from
November 2003

Schema theory: A basis for domain information design

“Schema theory explains interrial conditions of learning, which can be applied in instructional design in various ways. In this paper, schematic interpretation of human cognition is first related to human capabilities, for which instruction is designed. Then, instructional implication of the schema theory will be discussed for integration of learning outcome domains. Finally, Procedures for the design of instruction will be suggested emphasizing integration of various outcome domains.” (Katsuaki Suzuki (1987) – Department of Educational Research – Florida State University)

Visitor experience design

“This model moves away from the solely content or task-oriented approach as this tends to lead to system-centric designs. What is important here is that this model supports the content and task-oriented perspectives, as well as integrating research and immersion. The inclusion of a research perspective provides insights leading to the understanding of motivations and emotions of visitors.” (Clifton Evans – infostyling.com) – courtesy of iawiki

The document triangle: The interdependence of the structure, information and presentation dimensions

“Every paper and digital document shares three basic dimensions: structure, information and presentation. Although these dimensions are always interwoven, some people in the digital world mostly focus on document structures (e.g. information architects), some on the information they contain (e.g. marketers and writers/editors) while others specialize in the (interactive) presentation aspects (e.g. visual designers and Flash developers). The mutual dependence and interaction of these dimensions is the next level of design and does not regularly get the proper attention.” (Peter J. BogaardsBogieLand)

The art of usability benchmarking

“One common concern raised by managers and engineers alike is this: how usable is enough? This question, and the absence of an easy answer, is often the first defense people offer against investing in usability and ease of use. The smart usability engineer or designer has at least one response: the usability benchmark. By capturing the current level of ease of use of the current product or website, a reference point is created that can be measured against in the future. It doesn’t answer the question of how usable is enough, but if the benchmark is done properly, it does enable someone to set goals and expectations around ease of use for the future.” (Scott Berkunuiweb) – courtesy of lawrence lee

Information Architecture Made As Simple As Possible – And No Simpler

“Web design has been through the evolutionary period – the period of experimentation. There was a time when nobody really understood how to design a website. It was new for all of us. But the Web is not so new anymore. So much has been learned and figured out about what works and what doesn’t work. Your job can be so much easier by adapting best practices.” (Gerry McGovern – UIE Roadshow)

Acquiring Goods And Services Via The Internet: Consumer Shopping Perceptions

“(…) the largest number of items being purchased via the Internet is to fill love and affiliation needs, with physical needs being second. The Internet is also considered to be convenient and flexible, but less reliable and secure. Finally, the Internet is perceived to be least similar to purchasing from a store. These findings will help organizations conducting business via the Internet to better address the needs and wants of consumers, and system designers, marketers, managers, etc. can use these findings when assessing their organizationís Web transaction activity.” (Lori N.K. Leonard – First Monday 8.11)

Coding the Classroom: Technology and The Practice of Language

“The technology of the Information Age depends on programming languages for functionality. Because programming languages ultimately affect the production of language digitally, programming languages will inevitably demonstrate a lasting effect on the process of writing. Hence it is important to recognize the impact of programming languages on the production of language. It may well be the necessary first step in understanding technologyís reverberating presence in the classroom.” (Claudia Herbst – First Monday 8.11)

OK/Cancel: Interface Your Fears

“(…) a comic strip written for a very specific audience, but much of what we talk about is quite universal. Most everybody can relate to things in the world which don’t work like they should — and you needn’t be a usability specialist, interaction designer, industrial designer or any sort of designer to appreciate that frustration. But if you ARE any of those aforementioned people or have had the pleasure and pain of working with one or more of this rare breed, this strip is for you. ” (Kevin Cheng & Tom Chi)