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Communicating printed headings to the ear
Robert F Lorch1, Hung-Tao Chen1, Aqeel A Jawahir1
1a Department of Psychology , University of Kentucky , Lexington , KY , USA.
Ergonomics
|June 9, 2016
Summary
Signalling methods significantly improve auditory heading identification. Verbal labels were most effective for communicating heading hierarchy in spoken text, enhancing accessibility.
Area of Science:
- Auditory Perception
- Human-Computer Interaction
- Information Design
Background:
- Printed text headings are crucial for navigation and comprehension.
- Translating these headings into auditory formats presents challenges for listeners.
- Effective auditory cues are needed to convey heading information accurately.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the effectiveness of different signalling methods for auditory headings.
- To determine the best method for communicating heading hierarchy in spoken text.
- To identify simple, effective techniques for auditory heading communication.
Main Methods:
- Two experiments were conducted with college students.
- Participants listened to recorded text and identified headings, their wording, and hierarchical level.
- Three signalling methods were tested: tones, speaker changes, and verbal labels.
Main Results:
- Listeners performed poorly when headings were not signalled.
- All signalling methods improved heading and hierarchical level identification.
- Verbal labels were the most effective for communicating hierarchical level.
Conclusions:
- Distinguishing headings from the main text is essential for auditory comprehension.
- Verbal labels offer a simple yet highly effective method for signalling headings and their hierarchy in spoken text.
- This research provides practical insights for designing accessible auditory information systems.
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