Formal modelling techniques in human-computer interaction

Abstract

This paper is a theoretical contribution, elaborating the concept of models as used in Cognitive Ergonomics. A number of formal modelling techniques in human-computer interaction will be reviewed and discussed. The analysis focusses on different related concepts of formal modelling techniques in human-computer interaction. The label ‘model’ is used in various ways to represent the knowledge users need to operate interactive computer systems, to represent user-relevant aspects in the design of interactive systems, and to refer to methods that generate evaluative and predictive statements about usability aspects of such systems. The reasons underlying the use of formal models will be discussed. A review is presented of the most important modelling approaches, which include External-Internal Task Mapping Analysis; Action Language; Task-Action Grammar; the Goals, Operators, Methods and Selection model; Command Language Grammar and Extended Task-Action Grammar. The problems associated with applying the present formal modelling techniques are reviewed, and possibilities to solve these problems are presented. Finally, we conclude with a discussion of the future work that needs to be done, i.e., the development of a general design approach for usable systems, and the need to focus attention on the practice of applying formal modelling techniques in design.