Accession Number:

ADA193095

Title:

The Effect of Input Device on User Performance With a Menu-Based Natural Language Interface

Descriptive Note:

Final rept. Jul 1985-Dec 1987

Corporate Author:

TEXAS INSTRUMENTS INC DALLAS

Personal Author(s):

• Hendrickson, J. J.
• Williams, R. D.

Report Date:

1988-01-01

Pagination or Media Count:

68.0

Abstract:

Menu-Based Natural Language MBNL provides a form of constrained natural language dialogue for human-computer interaction where natural language words and phrases are displayed on the screen as menu items. Previous research on cursor devices has provided mixed results concerning the best cursor device and no firm recommendations were available for use with MBNL interfaces. This study was developed to determine the best input device for MBNL interfaces to Naval command and control databases. Results showed that search keys were slower than cursor keys and trackball. No-scrolling was faster than scrolling. Trackball was preferred, and was more quickly learned than cursor keys.

Descriptors:

• *INPUT
• *INPUT OUTPUT DEVICES
• *MAN COMPUTER INTERFACE
• *NATURAL LANGUAGE
• DATA BASES
• NAVY
• COMMAND AND CONTROL SYSTEMS
• USER NEEDS
• WORDS(LANGUAGE)
• MENU

Subject Categories:

• Computer Hardware

Distribution Statement:

APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE