Psychology of computer use: XVI. Effect of computer-pointing devices on children's processing rate

Computer-pointing devices for input into microcomputers have become a commonplace component in direct manipulation interfaces. Use of these peripheral devices by children should result in processing rates comparable to those obtained when children are pointing with their fingers or other means. Recent research suggests that children's processing rates are substantially lower when they are manipulating computer devices. One possibility is that a child's motor system is subjected to a greater load because the child's hands are not visible while the action of pointing with a computer is being carried out. The effect of two conditions (viewing hands, not viewing hands) on 6-, 8-, and 10-yr.-old children's processing rates was investigated. Results showed that there was no difference between the two conditions although low processing rates similar to those previously obtained were recorded.