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Module 2-Understanding User Needs

This document discusses the importance of understanding user needs and mental models in human-computer interaction design. It defines user needs as the requirements, expectations, and desires of users when interacting with technology. Understanding user needs through methods like interviews and observations is critical for developing user-centered systems. It also explains that mental models are users' cognitive representations of how a system works, which are shaped by their experiences. The document stresses that a system's design should align with users' mental models to improve usability and satisfaction. It provides examples of methods like prototyping and testing to understand mental models.

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Rovelyn Lagun
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44 views3 pages

Module 2-Understanding User Needs

This document discusses the importance of understanding user needs and mental models in human-computer interaction design. It defines user needs as the requirements, expectations, and desires of users when interacting with technology. Understanding user needs through methods like interviews and observations is critical for developing user-centered systems. It also explains that mental models are users' cognitive representations of how a system works, which are shaped by their experiences. The document stresses that a system's design should align with users' mental models to improve usability and satisfaction. It provides examples of methods like prototyping and testing to understand mental models.

Uploaded by

Rovelyn Lagun
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

Republic of The Philippines

ISABELA STATE UNIVERSITY


Cauayan, Campus

HUMAN COMPUTER INTERACTION 2


Module 2

REMIE-BIE D. ANDRES, DIT


Subject Prof.

Understanding User Needs and Mental Models in HCI


Introduction:
One of the fundamental aspects of HCI is understanding user needs and mental
models. In this lecture, we will explore the importance of user needs and how
understanding mental models can significantly impact the design and usability of
interactive systems.

Understanding User Needs:


User needs are the requirements, expectations, and desires of individuals when
interacting with a computer system or software application.

Identifying and addressing user needs is critical for the development of user-
centered and effective interactive systems.

Importance of User Needs


Meeting user needs leads to user satisfaction and the success of an interactive
system.

Failure to address user needs can result in poor user experiences, low adoption
rates, and ultimately, system failure.

Methods for Understanding User Needs


User Interviews: Conduct interviews with potential users to gather information
about their goals, preferences, and pain points.

Surveys and Questionnaires: Use structured surveys to collect quantitative data


on user preferences and requirements.
Republic of The Philippines
ISABELA STATE UNIVERSITY
Cauayan, Campus

HUMAN COMPUTER INTERACTION 2


Module 2

REMIE-BIE D. ANDRES, DIT


Subject Prof.

Observation: Observe users in their natural environment to understand how they


interact with technology.

User Personas: Create user personas to represent different user groups, each with
distinct needs and goals.

Use Cases and Scenarios: Develop use cases and scenarios to understand how
users will interact with the system in various situations.

Mental Models
What are Mental Models?
Mental models - are cognitive representations of how users perceive and understand a
system, its functions, and its interactions.

Users develop mental models based on their prior experiences, beliefs, and assumptions.

Importance of Understanding Mental Models


Aligning the system's design with users' mental models can improve usability and
user satisfaction.

A mismatch between the system's conceptual model and the user's mental model
can lead to confusion and frustration.

Methods for Understanding Mental Models


User Testing: Observe how users interact with a system and identify any
deviations between their actions and the system's expected behavior.
Republic of The Philippines
ISABELA STATE UNIVERSITY
Cauayan, Campus

HUMAN COMPUTER INTERACTION 2


Module 2

REMIE-BIE D. ANDRES, DIT


Subject Prof.

Prototyping: Create low-fidelity prototypes and gather user feedback to refine the
system's design to match user expectations.

Cognitive Walkthroughs: Walk through the system with potential users, asking
them to explain their thought process and expectations.

Usability Testing: Test the system with representative users to identify


discrepancies between the system's design and user mental models.

Case Study: Aligning User Needs and Mental Models


Present a real-world case study where understanding user needs and mental
models played a crucial role in the success of an interactive system.

Highlight how the design of the system was adjusted to meet user needs and align
with their mental models.

Conclusion
Understanding user needs and mental models is foundational to HCI.

It is essential for creating interactive systems that are user-centered, easy to use,
and meet the expectations of the target audience.

Ongoing research and testing are vital to ensure that a system continues to evolve
and align with changing user needs and mental models.

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