Research Idea

The research idea I will be outlining will be similar to the one I proposed in our courses first blog post. I think that ensuring I incorporated elements from the first weeks readings helped me define a structured way of conceptualizing the research. The changes I will be doing will be more like ‘add-ons’ for example, I now know the importance of operationally defining terms and I will be sure to include those elements into my proposal. As we learn about action research, I will likely obtain new knowledge that I can incorporate into the project.

Research Question

The question I will look to answer will revolve around the treatment of the experiment. This treatment takes the form of the new software or updated interface that will be theoretically introduced to the experimental group. I am seeking answers to the following question. If I introduce a new interface to a work-group, will task completion be more efficient. As more details arise, I will see how much more clarification is necessary so I can better define the scenario.

Resources

Many resources exist to aid in conducting usability testing and I will also be able to conduct literature reviews on other testing research as well. I have previously dissected a session done by Drew Pain, Devarshi Ghoshal and Lavanya Ramakrishnan (2021) where they implemented a new software into a scientific workplace. I have also mentioned  Steve Krug’s (2014) ‘Rocket Surgery Made Easy’ and ‘Don’t Make Me Think’ often. These titles break down the importance and process of usability testing.  I have also read a more applicable usability study from Kimberly D. Pendell and Michael S. Bowman (2012) where they break down their experience introducing users to a new library website. I will likely need at least two more but these have got me started this week.

Databases

I generally select the databases I use by how easy it is to filter out the number of usable links. Forsyth Library categorizes the  databases alphabetically which helps me find relevant material. Just as my proposed experiment reinforces, usability is important to me.

1. GaleOneFile -Specifically, their Computer Science database. I have lots of choices as to what studies I look into so I can find usability test that come from different fields to add authority to the research results and literature review. It is also easy for me to choose to only see full text documents or peer reviewed journals. Gale OneFile is easy to use but it is sometimes hard to narrow down the search.
2. EBSCOhost–  This database is only a little harder to navigate but has more filtering tools. With it, I can add Boolean operators to get precisely what I am looking for. It is also easier to search multiple databases that EBSCO host offers by selecting the fields I am looking to include.  I commonly have multiple checked off including Applied Science & Technology, Computer Source, Web News, and Business related databases.
3. BioMed Central– This one may seem of topic but I suppose that is why it is good I am given a chance to explain. Usability and interface design should always be built as inclusively as possible. By this I mean, when and if at all possible, a interface should be built to be used by people using screen reading software, struggling with chronic pain, or voice activated software.  This is an often overlooked aspect of design. While it may not be a scientific aspect of the research proposal I still make an effort to read usability studies that incorporate these  elements and this database has many such test.

References

Krug, S. (2010). Rocket surgery made easy the do-it-yourself guide to finding and fixing usability problems. New Riders.