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Related Experiment Video

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How to Build a Dichoptic Presentation System That Includes an Eye Tracker

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Positioning graphical objects on computer screens: a three-phase model.

Robert Pastel¹

¹Department of Computer Science, Michigan Technological University, 1400 Townsend Dr., Houghton, MI 49931, USA. rpastel@mtu.edu

|April 8, 2011

Summary

This study introduces a three-phase model for cursor positioning on computer displays, improving upon traditional Fitts' law for human-computer interaction. The model enhances analysis of positioning tasks and interaction design.

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Area of Science:

Human-Computer Interaction
Usability Engineering
Experimental Psychology

Background:

Traditional Fitts' law is insufficient for modeling real-world object positioning in graphical user interfaces.
Human factors research highlights limitations of single-component models for complex interaction tasks.

Purpose of the Study:

To identify and model distinct phases in graphical object (cursor) positioning on computer displays.
To develop a more accurate model for cursor positioning tasks than existing methods.

Main Methods:

145 participants repeatedly positioned cursors of varying sizes within targets of varying sizes using mice.
Measured time intervals: cursor touch, cursor entry, and positioning completion indication.
Manipulated positioning tolerances from precise to imprecise.

Main Results:

Cursor touch time correlated with initial cursor-target distance.
Cursor entry time after touch related to the logarithm of cursor size divided by target tolerance.
Post-entry positioning completion time inversely related to target tolerance.

Conclusions:

A novel three-phase model (distant, proximate, target-inside) accurately models cursor positioning.
This model offers a framework for ergonomists to evaluate and improve positioning techniques.
The model aids in analyzing tasks and enhancing user interaction during positioning.