Similarities and differences in computer user's mental models and computer dynamics.

[摘要] This dissertation explores the mental models applied when computersare used by tertiary sector 'clerical' employees from differentbackgrounds and with different levels of experience with, andknowledge of computers.The study was conducted in three stages. In STAGE 1, interviewswere conducted to categorise the level of knowledge and experienceof the users, and to establish their socio-cultural backgrounds.STAGE 2 established their 'mental models' of the inside of acomputer by means of sketches. STAGE 3 assessed sketches ofsubjects' mental models of the dynamic operations of the computersaving a file. Cluster analysis was conduded to establish groupingsof subjects with similar usership background and sketches. Furtheranalysis was conducted on the resulting cluster solutions. (Abbreviation abstract)

[发布机构] University of the Witwatersrand