ERIC Number: ED423825
Record Type: Non-Journal
Publication Date: 1998-Feb
Pages: 11
Abstractor: N/A
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: N/A
Visual Design for Interactive Learning Tools: Representation of Time-Based Information.
Boling, Elizabeth; Brown, J. P.; Ray, Sumitra Das; Erwin, Anthony; Kirkley, Sonny
The development of potentially powerful computer-based tools within rich learning environments is hampered by the constraints of delivery systems (specifically low-resolution, low-real estate displays). In designing a World Wide Web-based tool for manipulating time-based information, the authors have encountered a lack of guidelines or empirical research to help resolve problems related to displaying timelines on 72 dpi, 640x480 pixel computer screens. In a study comparing linear vs. staggered arrangement of standard 32x32 pixel icons on an interactive timeline, it was found that subjects perform significantly faster when making temporal relationship comparisons with the linear arrangement of icons on a timeline. Study participants were 42 undergraduate students at a large midwestern university. Participants interacted with a Java-based timeline/icon display. Data were gathered related to completion time, answer accuracy, and answer accuracy when the "overlaps/overlapped by" temporal relationship from the data set was removed. (Contains 26 references.) (Author/DLS)
Publication Type: Reports - Research; Speeches/Meeting Papers
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A