Abstract
This study evaluates and compares the suitability for child–computer interaction (CCI, the branch within human–computer interaction focused on interactive computer systems for children) of two devices: a standard computer mouse and the ENLAZA interface, a head mouse that measures the user’s head posture using an inertial sensor. A multidirectional pointing task was used to assess the motor performance and the users’ ability to learn such a task. The evaluation was based on the interpretation of the metrics derived from Fitts’ law. Ten children aged between 6 and 8 participated in this study. Participants performed a series of pre- and post-training tests for both input devices. After the experiments, data were analyzed and statistically compared. The results show that Fitts’ law can be used to detect changes in the learning process and assess the level of psychomotor development (by comparing the performance of adults and children). In addition, meaningful differences between the fine motor control (hand) and the gross motor control (head) were found by comparing the results of the interaction using the two devices. These findings suggest that Fitts’ law metrics offer a reliable and objective way of measuring the progress of physical training or therapy.
Highlights
Published: 31 May 2021Child–computer interaction (CCI) is the branch within human–computer interaction (HCI) that studies the design, implementation and use of interactive computer systems for children [1]
Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) is the field that studies hardware and software resources that bridge the gap between computers or personal devices and people with disabilities
Cerebral palsy (CP) is an umbrella term that describes motor disorders caused by a lesion in the immature brain [3]
Summary
Child–computer interaction (CCI) is the branch within human–computer interaction (HCI) that studies the design, implementation and use of interactive computer systems for children [1]. The research on this area has gained traction since the 1990s, mainly driven by interest in the use of technology in schools, for educational and communication purposes. CP is an umbrella term that describes motor disorders caused by a lesion in the immature brain [3] These disorders, which affect movement and posture, are often accompanied by cognitive or perceptive disorders that greatly hamper daily life activities, limiting the capabilities for communication and social relationships among children. According to population-based studies, one out of Publisher’s Note: MDPI stays neutral with regard to jurisdictional claims in published maps and institutional affiliations
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