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Human-Computer Interaction: Challenges, Opportunities and Emerging Developments

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A special issue of Applied Sciences (ISSN 2076-3417). This special issue belongs to the section "Computing and Artificial Intelligence".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (30 July 2024) | Viewed by 15648

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Dr. Paweł Weichbroth

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Department of Software Engineering, Gdańsk University of Technology, 80-233 Gdańsk, Poland
Interests: human-computer interaction; artificial intelligence; software quality; usability
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Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Human–Computer Interaction (HCI) is a multidisciplinary field of research focusing on the design of computer technology and, more specifically, the interaction between humans (users) and computers. Nowadays, HCI is still the subject of considerable interest, bringing the attention of both researchers and practitioners.

The emergence of new technological advancements, including Artificial Intelligence, Extended Reality Mobile Computing, Virtual/Augmented Reality, Internet of Things (IoT), have imposed new requirements with respect to the design of information systems (ISs) on the one hand, as well have introduced significant opportunities for ISs to leverage user experiences, on the other.

This Special Issue is dedicated to disseminating high-quality, original research papers, covering the following topics (but not limited to):

Human–Computer Interaction Theory
Multimodal Interaction
Natural Language Interaction
Intelligent User Interfaces
User Centered Design
Usability and User Experience
Cognitive Systems
Machine Learning Methods for User Interface Design and Customization
Mobile Computing
Mobile Applications Design and Development
Virtual Reality
Augmented Reality
Interaction and Humans in the Internet of Things

Dr. Paweł Weichbroth
Guest Editor

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Keywords

human–computer interaction
usability
user experience
intelligent user interfaces
mobile computering
virtual reality
augmented reality

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Related Special Issue

Human-Computer Interaction: Challenges, Opportunities and Emerging Developments, 2nd Edition in Applied Sciences

Published Papers (9 papers)

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Research

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16 pages, 6895 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comparison of Tutorial Methods in Virtual Reality Games for a Better User Experience

by Yuryeon Lee, Guyeop Kim, Kang Hoon Lee, Jaehyun Park and Hyun K. Kim

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(16), 7141; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14167141 - 14 Aug 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 790

Abstract

The commercialisation of virtual reality (VR) headsets has made them more affordable and popular in gaming and entertainment. The natural interaction between the VR environment and users can maximise immersion and is crucial to VR gaming. Despite their growing popularity, educational VR games prioritise learning over immersion and require users to learn to interact with and play games using tutorials. Herein, we developed a game named Numverse with an accompanying tutorial. After selecting the tutorial content, we programmed the user interface and proposed a delivery method for the tutorial. We evaluated the user experience based on the effects of the presence or absence of the tutorial and its mode of delivery. The tutorials were of three types: no tutorial, instruction-screen tutorial, and context-sensitive tutorial, with the latter being the most preferred. The evaluation results show that presence, ability to learn controls, intrinsic motivation, and learning effectiveness are higher for the instruction-screen and context-sensitive tutorials than for no tutorial. On average, users experienced more motion sickness in the no-tutorial case, with a significant difference in nausea items. This study asserts the importance of tutorials in VR games, and its findings could improve user experience in future VR games. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Human-Computer Interaction: Challenges, Opportunities and Emerging Developments)

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23 pages, 3298 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Construction and Ranking of Usability Indicators for Medical Websites Based on Website User Experience

by Xiaoxue Liu and Kyungjin Park

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(13), 5465; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14135465 - 24 Jun 2024

Viewed by 980

Abstract

In the era of digitalization, medical websites have rapidly expanded their healthcare market share due to their convenience. However, with this user-base expansion, issues with poor user experience have surfaced. To address this, we developed and ranked usability indicators for medical websites, aiming to improve their design and development from a user experience perspective, thereby improving user satisfaction and the website’s usability. Initially, we reviewed the relevant literature and summarized 30 usability indicators. Subsequently, we formed a Delphi panel of 20 experts and preliminarily identified 24 usability indicators through the Delphi survey method. Using data from 300 valid user surveys, we applied the Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) method to categorize these 24 indicators into four groups. Finally, we assessed the relative importance and priorities of these indicators using the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) method. The results showed that, in terms of criterion layer weight priorities, Trust and Security (0.5494), Basic Performance (0.2710), and Features and Technology (0.1355) exhibited higher proportions. For the solution layer, Property Protection (0.1894), Credibility (0.1852), Privacy Protection (0.1194), Effectiveness (0.0932), and Findability (0.0579) exhibited higher weight proportions. The findings of this study will assist in future usability assessments and enhancements of medical websites. By optimizing the usability, we can both advance the digitalization of medical websites and improve the usability of medical websites, and enhance the service experience and satisfaction of your users. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Human-Computer Interaction: Challenges, Opportunities and Emerging Developments)

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15 pages, 4478 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of a Smart Audio System Based on the ViP Principle and the Analytic Hierarchy Process Human–Computer Interaction Design

by Jinsong Huang, Wenyu Li and Tariq Sadad

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(7), 2678; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14072678 - 22 Mar 2024

Viewed by 1079

Abstract

The current limitations of user–product interaction with smart speakers have spurred the proposal of a model to circumvent these challenges. We used the ViP design principle to redefine the user’s approach to interacting with the product. Throughout the deconstruction and design stages, we explored the structure and function of the conventional product across three layers: the product layer, interaction layer, and context layer using three models. We used the hierarchical analysis method to effectively quantify the design factors affecting user experience and identify the key design factors. This approach enabled us to contextualize the smart audio system, explore the interaction dynamics between the product and the user, and provide valuable insights on designing new products. A questionnaire method was used to survey 67 users, and a reliability test was conducted to ensure the validity of the questionnaire v (Cronbach’s coefficient α = 0.868). A pairwise comparison of factors was conducted on a 1–9 scale, with weights determined through the analytic hierarchy process (AHP). The combination of the ViP design principle and hierarchical analysis presents a novel and objective paradigm to guide designers to customize product characteristics (design attributes) to enhance user human–computer interaction experience. We validated the feasibility of the innovative design approach using the smart speaker model, offering insights for research on designing similar products. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Human-Computer Interaction: Challenges, Opportunities and Emerging Developments)

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26 pages, 11938 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effects of Augmented Reality Companion on User Engagement in Energy Management Mobile App

by Joo Chan Kim, Saguna Saguna and Christer Åhlund

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(7), 2671; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14072671 - 22 Mar 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1360

Abstract

As the impact of global warming on climate change becomes noticeable, the importance of energy efficiency for reducing greenhouse gas emissions grows immense. To this end, a platform, solution, and mobile apps are developed as part of the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation program to support energy optimization in residences. However, to ensure long-term energy optimization, it is crucial to keep users engaged with the apps. Since augmented reality (AR) and a virtual animal companion positively influenced user engagement, we designed an AR companion that represented the user’s residence states; thereby making the user aware of indoor information. We conducted user evaluations to determine the effect of the AR companion on user engagement and perceived usability in the context of energy management. We identified that the user interface (UI) with AR (ARUI) barely affected user engagement and perceived usability compared to the traditional UI without AR (TUI); however, we found that the ARUI positively affected one of the user engagement aspects. Our results show AR companion integration’s potential benefits and effects on energy management mobile apps. Furthermore, our findings provide insights into UI design elements for developers considering multiple interaction modalities with AR. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Human-Computer Interaction: Challenges, Opportunities and Emerging Developments)

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18 pages, 3131 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Alternative Audio-Tactile Method of Presenting Structural Information Contained in Mathematical Drawings Adapted to the Needs of the Blind

by Michał Maćkowski, Mateusz Kawulok, Piotr Brzoza, Marceli Janczy and Dominik Spinczyk

Appl. Sci. 2023, 13(17), 9989; https://doi.org/10.3390/app13179989 - 4 Sep 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1445

Abstract

Alternative methods of presenting the information contained in mathematical images, which are adapted to the needs of blind people, are significant challenges in modern education. This article presents an alternative multimodal method that substitutes the sense of sight with the sense of touch and hearing to convey graphical information. The developed method was evaluated at a center specializing in the education of the blind in Poland, on a group of 46 students aged 15–19. They solved a set of 60 high school-level problems on geometry, mathematical analysis, and various types of graphs. We assessed the mechanisms introduced for the sense of touch and hearing, as well as the overall impression of the users. The system usability scale and the NASA task load index tests were used in the evaluation. The results obtained indicate an overall increase in user satisfaction and usefulness of the proposed approach and a reduction in the workload during exercise solving. The results also show a significant impact of the proposed navigation modes on the average time to reach objects in the drawing. Therefore, the presented method could significantly contribute to the development of systems supporting multimodal education for people with blindness. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Human-Computer Interaction: Challenges, Opportunities and Emerging Developments)

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17 pages, 1354 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Life Cycle Cost Model for Life Support Systems of Crewed Autonomous Transport for Deep Space Habitation

by Igor Kabashkin and Sergey Glukhikh

Appl. Sci. 2023, 13(14), 8213; https://doi.org/10.3390/app13148213 - 14 Jul 2023

Viewed by 1207

Abstract

Intelligent transport systems are used in various transport systems, among which a special place is occupied by crewed autonomous transport systems such as space stations for deep space habitation. These objects have a complex and critical requirement for life support systems (LSSs) to maintain safe and habitable conditions for the crew in the isolated environment. This paper explores the different architectural options for life support systems (LSSs) in autonomous transport systems, specifically focusing on space stations. Three alternative LSS architectures are discussed: Open LSS (OLSS), Closed LSS (CLSS), and Mixed LSS (MLSS). Each architecture has its own advantages and disadvantages. OLSS relies on external resource delivery, reducing initial costs but increasing dependence on resupply missions. CLSS operates autonomously, generating resources onboard, but has higher initial costs and technological complexity. MLSS combines external delivery and onboard generation, providing flexibility and adaptability. The material emphasizes the importance of cost-effectiveness analysis at the early stages of design and identifies the boundary values of mission duration that determine the most effective LSS architecture choice. The material highlights the significance of striking the right balance between cost and performance to develop intelligent ecosystems of LSS for space stations and other autonomous transport systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Human-Computer Interaction: Challenges, Opportunities and Emerging Developments)

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17 pages, 697 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Education Mobility as a Service: A Study of the Features of a Novel Mobility Platform

by Małgorzata Gawlik-Kobylińska, Igor Kabashkin, Boriss Misnevs and Paweł Maciejewski

Appl. Sci. 2023, 13(9), 5245; https://doi.org/10.3390/app13095245 - 22 Apr 2023

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1824

Abstract

The European Union’s Erasmus+ program strongly supports mobility for finding training or work opportunities. However, in the era of pandemics, there is a need to find remedies for restricted movement. One solution is to create a platform for collaboration in the spheres of work and training. This article aims to identify the crucial factors for the development of a novel ecosystem for the European education mobility. This mixed-method study employed interviews with 140 respondents. The authors utilized the NVivo software, specifically its Word Frequency Query functionality, to identify relevant features in the four main categories: competence acquisition, pedagogy, organization, and technology. Findings suggest that the acquisition of competencies should be oriented towards the future labor market, students prefer gamified activities, the platform should be organized to allow for easy job and training searches, and 2D and 3D solutions should be combined for versatility. Overall, future-oriented content, motivation, and technologically diverse activities are positively perceived by students and can be seen as a major trend in creating similar tools. This type of user experience research could also be extended to a group of teachers and administrative personnel engaged in education mobility as service activities. This research was conducted as part of the ERASMUS+ project eMediator. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Human-Computer Interaction: Challenges, Opportunities and Emerging Developments)

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36 pages, 3998 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Design Patterns for Mobile Games Based on Structural Similarity

by Ghulam Rasool, Yasir Hussain, Tariq Umer, Jawad Rasheed, Sook Fern Yeo and Fatih Sahin

Appl. Sci. 2023, 13(2), 1198; https://doi.org/10.3390/app13021198 - 16 Jan 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2606

Abstract

Software design patterns have a proven impact on the quality of software applications and the development process of an application. The success of design patterns in the software industry has attracted mobile game developers and researchers to apply patterns in the context of mobile games. Researchers have already proposed different frameworks and design patterns, but they are not truly beneficial for game developers. The high-level taxonomies can be adjuvant while proposing useful design patterns. The existing taxonomies for mobile games do not consider different parts of a game that outline top-level structure. In this paper, we propose a new taxonomy that emphasizes the top-level structure for identifying new design patterns for mobile games. We propose five novel generic design patterns that might be applied to the development of mobile games and other software applications. The presented design patterns are, in a true sense, programming patterns that outline top-level generic classes and interfaces, and that could be the basis for the development of new games. We developed four demo games by using these patterns for the realization of taxonomy and design patterns. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Human-Computer Interaction: Challenges, Opportunities and Emerging Developments)

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Review

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32 pages, 517 KiB

Open AccessReview

Motion Trajectory Prediction in Warehouse Management Systems: A Systematic Literature Review

by Jakub Belter, Marek Hering and Paweł Weichbroth

Appl. Sci. 2023, 13(17), 9780; https://doi.org/10.3390/app13179780 - 29 Aug 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2831

Abstract

Background: In the context of Warehouse Management Systems, knowledge related to motion trajectory prediction methods utilizing machine learning techniques seems to be scattered and fragmented. Objective: This study seeks to fill this research gap by using a systematic literature review approach. Methods: Based on the data collected from Google Scholar, a systematic literature review was performed, covering the period from 2016 to 2023. The review was driven by a protocol that comprehends inclusion and exclusion criteria to identify relevant papers. Results: Considering the Warehouse Management Systems, five categories of motion trajectory prediction methods have been identified: Deep Learning methods, probabilistic methods, methods for solving the Travelling-Salesman problem (TSP), algorithmic methods, and others. Specifically, the performed analysis also provides the research community with an overview of the state-of-the-art methods, which can further stimulate researchers and practitioners to enhance existing and develop new ones in this field. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Human-Computer Interaction: Challenges, Opportunities and Emerging Developments)

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