Comparing two one-handed access methods on a PDA

ABSTRACT

Users of mobile devices often need to use those devices in contexts which leave only one hand available for manipulating the device, such as holding another device or manual, walking or operating some machinery.In this paper we discuss the results of a comparison of the effectiveness, efficiency and preference users have for map navigation tasks on a PDA, where they are restricted to one handed use. One method uses a tilt sensor and touch screen and the other uses multifunction buttons and the touch screen.The results of this study indicate that neither method was significantly more effective (accurate), efficient, or preferred by the users for one handed manipulation of three maps. We did find indications, however, that the tilt method helped users create better cognitive overviews of the maps.

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INDEX TERMS

Primary Classification:
  H. Information Systems
  H.5 INFORMATION INTERFACES AND PRESENTATION (I.7)
      H.5.2 User Interfaces (D.2.2, H.1.2, I.3.6)
          Subjects: Input devices and strategies (e.g., mouse, touchscreen)

General Terms:
Design, Experimentation, Human Factors, Performance

Keywords:
PDA, handheld device, input method, map navigation, one-handed, tilt