1. Can you think of a specific instance when you have become frustrated with a software user interface?
YES! Is there a person alive who hasn’t sat in front of their computer and said “Now, where was that?” Office 2007 is a perfect recent example. However, I believe it is frustrating because I am familiar with the old screens. And can I say that I hate icons….there are too many of them. I just want a tag in English because the icons are not self explanatory any more. I agree that people find ease of use only after they are familiar….and then somebody goes and changes it all to make it easier and we have to relearn it all again.
2. Is it possible to make computer software significantly easier to use? I think standards and routine practices are the only way to make users more comfortable. Education has historically been a key factor, but as younger generations grow up computer savvy, that will become less important.
3. Would you agree that programmers do not understand the viewpoint of a typical computer user and consequently produce bad software? I think sometimes, but most teams require some user feedback before going live. A solitary programmer can get lost in their own head and impress themselves with their clever programs…..but I dont think we are subjected to that in our mainstream usage.
The computer users bill of rights is funny and a necessary reminder that “regular” people need to be able to use the machines. The programmers need to stay focused on the task, which is to provide a vehicle that allows other people to accomplish their tasks. My biggest compaint is usually the lack of technical support. I love to call and have someone ask me if I have tried to reboot……then they can’t determine the problem and I have now spent hours of my life I will never get back.
Taking online classes has been an interesting experience. It is not easier, in fact I think there is more work and less instruction. I think online courses should be certain to have a great text book. Out of my three online classes, only one has a book that I find to be helpful. I think audio/video lectures with power point slides could be very helpful since I appear to be an auditory learner. I have not used Wiki’s but any group interaction seems like a learning tool that should be used. Depending on the material to be taught, I think simulations and games could prove to be an important way to enhance online learning. I would also have like our Book on CD to have audio so I could listen to it while I am driving. Just a thought!
Yes, I agree about Office 2007! I actually am waiting to purchase and install it on my home PC because it hasn’t been out long enough to where programmers can correct bugs. Good point that users really only have ease of use after they are familiar with a program.
I have wondered with the younger generations coming up, being that they are so immersed with technology, that will there be a real or less issue of user friendliness? I’m not acquainted with what kids in k-12 are now exposed to technology wise, but from what I hear, it’s quite amazing from when I was a student.
I have had similar experiences with online courses – that they are more work with less instruction. I too would enjoy seeing more group interaction for learning tools and feedback; I do quite miss this about the in-class experience. I think it is a great idea to have a CD that one could listen to as a supplement for learning in an online class.
I agree with most of what you said about the online course experience. I wish we had a CD to listen to because I am always on the go and hardly ever home to read. Even auditory learning material that I have listen to at home on my computer is sometimes difficult. I would greatly enjoy little games. I always need new, fun things to keep me focused. I would not however, enjoy group activities at all. Like I said, my life is on the go and I have just enough time to see my family before I laid my head down at night, let alone have to make time for other people that I don’t want to see. No offense-I’m sure you’re an awesome person to be around
I still remember the first time I saw the interface for Word 2007, I think I sat there for about 5 minutes wondering where to even begin. I hate it when developers decide to make large sweeping changes to an old familar interface. Even though I have been using it for about a month now, I still find there are things that I want to do but have no idea how to do it with 2007.
I also agree with you on the subject of online classes. These classes require a lot more work on the part of the individual. From where I sit, it also seems to be easier to let yourself get behind as you are much more responsible for keeping yourself in check.
Online classes require us to be much more responsible and manage our time much more closly. It is much easier for online class users to get behind than it is for those who go to class.