Age-Related Differences in Subjective Ratings of Hierarchical Information
Date Issued
2003
Abstract
The present study investigated differences in subjective measures (Ease of Navigation, Sense of
Orientation, Satisfaction) when older and younger computer users traversed expandable and nonexpandable
online hierarchical information structures. Twenty four older and 24 younger
computer users participated in the study. Older users rated their computer and Internet experience
significantly lower than younger participants. Two-way ANOVA analyses showed that Age was
only significant in the Sense of Orientation, although the age-effect on user satisfaction became
significant after Internet experience was factored out, indicating that Internet experience mediates
the effect of age on user satisfaction. Neither hierarchy excelled in subjective measures. The
results of the study suggest that older adults remain at a disadvantage regardless of the hierarchical
design alternatives examined in the study.
Orientation, Satisfaction) when older and younger computer users traversed expandable and nonexpandable
online hierarchical information structures. Twenty four older and 24 younger
computer users participated in the study. Older users rated their computer and Internet experience
significantly lower than younger participants. Two-way ANOVA analyses showed that Age was
only significant in the Sense of Orientation, although the age-effect on user satisfaction became
significant after Internet experience was factored out, indicating that Internet experience mediates
the effect of age on user satisfaction. Neither hierarchy excelled in subjective measures. The
results of the study suggest that older adults remain at a disadvantage regardless of the hierarchical
design alternatives examined in the study.
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