MarkNotes Question 1 The Human Computer Interface (HCI) is an important part of an ICT system. Describe four factors which should be taken into account when designing a good HCI. Explain why each factor is important. [4x2] Answer One factor which should be taken into account is consistency of signposting and pop-up information. Each screen should consistently have pop-up menus, icons, next and previous buttons in the same place to make it easier for the user to follow and therefore they can learn faster.Another factor is on-screen help, this is especially important if no outside help is available. Another factor is layout appropriate to task, this is important because it has to be suitable for the user otherwise it would be inappropriate and maybe more difficult to understand. For example a small child learning to spell would prefer a bright coloured background, large text, lots of pictures and as little amount of writing, however a student at college would not be suitable for this layout instead they would need a more detailed page that gives them information that they require for the courses, more writing and less images.

MarkNotes Three factors given instead of FOUR. No example given for on-screen help. Could have included a clear navigational structure especially for novice users. Disability factor of user User expertise Examples for each one to gain the full marks Question 1 The Human Computer Interface (HCI) is an important part of an ICT system. Describe four factors which should be taken into account when designing a good HCI. Explain why each factor is important. [4x2] Answer One factor which should be taken into account is consistency of signposting and pop-up information. Each screen should consistently have pop-up menus, icons, next and previous buttons in the same place to make it easier for the user to follow and therefore they can learn faster Another factor is on-screen help, this is especially important if no outside help is available. Another factor is layout appropriate to task, this is important because it has to be suitable for the user otherwise it would be inappropriate and maybe more difficult to understand. For example a small child learning to spell would prefer a bright coloured background, large text, lots of pictures and as little amount of writing, however a student at college would not be suitable for this layout instead they would need a more detailed page that gives them information that they require for the courses, more writing and less images.

MarkNotes Question 2 The Human Computer Interface (HCI) is an important part of an ICT system. (a) Examine the different needs of an expert user and a novice user and describe how they can be met when designing the HCI. [5] Answer An expert user will be able to use the system easier and be able to use it quicker than a novice user. A Novice user will need a system that is easy to use and the interface should have help features to help the user. The system should be intuitive like a windows interface and easy to learn, you can work out how things work by using icons or pictures to do tasks.

MarkNotes Only TWO reasonable points made about Novice users - Intuitive learning like windows and Help Features in the interface. Expert user mentioned but no good points made to gain any marks. Could have included points such as: Novice Novice user will need clear navigation structure (1). Novice user will use wizards which are not as flexible as setting it out yourself, but help with performing tasks(1). Colour scheme making it easier to use for novice users (1) Expert The expert user will want to get the job done in the least possible time (1). Expert user knows the commands and will be able to type in commands or programming language (1) Shortcuts which the experienced user can use rather than going through a series of menus (1) Question 2 The Human Computer Interface (HCI) is an important part of an ICT system. (a) Examine the different needs of an expert user and a novice user and describe how they can be met when designing the HCI. [5] Answer An expert user will be able to use the system easier and be able to use it quicker than a novice user. A Novice user will need a system that is easy to use and the interface should have help features to help the user. The system should be intuitive like a windows interface and easy to learn, you can work out how things work by using icons or pictures to do tasks.

MarkNotes Question 2 (b) Discuss using examples, the features of a HCI that would be suitable for the disabled user. [4] Answer Features of a HCI for a disabled user would be use of speech recognition rather than using the keyboard for people who have limited use of their hands and arms. Keyboards could have Braille on the keys to help blind people using a computer. Use of large text and fonts for people with poor eyesight.

MarkNotes Only THREE points made Use of specialist input devices such as those which use blow pipes or eye movements (1) Ability to magnify areas of the screen to aid users with bad eyesight (1). Use of correct colour schemes to help people who are colour blind / dyslexia (1). Illustrated use of text to speech output (1). Use visual messages rather than beeps or warning noises for users who are deaf (1). Use of a large mouse for people with poor coordination (1). Use plenty of contrast between the text and the background to aid people with poor eyesight (1) Question 2 (b) Discuss using examples, the features of a HCI that would be suitable for the disabled user. [4] Answer Features of a HCI for a disabled user would be use of speech recognition rather than using the keyboard for people who have limited use of their hands and arms. Keyboards could have Braille on the keys to help blind people using a computer. Use of large text and fonts for people with poor eyesight.

Marks for these questions 10/17