Technology User Research Articles

Consumer Trust in Digital Banking: A Qualitative Study of Legal and Regulatory Impacts

The shift towards digital banking has significantly transformed the financial landscape, necessitating a deeper understanding of the factors influencing consumer trust. This study aims to explore how legal and regulatory frameworks, coupled with perceived security measures, impact consumer trust in digital banking services. A qualitative research design was employed, using semi-structured interviews to gather data from 30 participants who use digital banking services. Participants were selected through purposive sampling to cover a broad demographic range. Data were collected to achieve theoretical saturation and analyzed using NVivo software to identify emerging themes and patterns. The analysis revealed three main themes: Regulatory Impact, Perceived Security, and Consumer Trust Dynamics. Regulatory Impact included categories such as Compliance Standards, Consumer Protection Policies, Transparency, and Enforcement and Penalties. Perceived Security was detailed through Technological Safeguards, Risk Management, User Experience, and Data Management. Consumer Trust Dynamics comprised Initial Trust Formation, Trust Maintenance, Impact of Negative Experiences, Role of Peer Influence, and Long-term Relationship Building. The study concluded that a robust legal and regulatory framework, effective security measures, and dynamic trust-building practices are pivotal in fostering consumer trust in digital banking. Transparent regulations, advanced security technologies, and proactive customer relationship management are essential for banks to maintain and enhance trust among users.

Usability and acceptance as facilitators of behavioral intention to use a mixed reality exercise program in older adults: A structural equation model

BackgroundStaying active has been one of the mainstays in promoting health in older adults. Despite the potential of innovative health technologies for fitness, there is limited understanding of the factors influencing older adults’ behavioral intention to engage in mixed reality physical exercise. PurposeTo develop a theoretical model of technology usability and acceptance influencing behavioral intention to use a mixed reality physical exercise program among older adults. DesignA cross-sectional study was conducted to develop a virtual exercise coach in a mixed-reality environment. Older adults (n = 64) were purposively selected from a community senior center in the Philippines and participated in the exercise program. Their responses were analyzed using a partial least square approach to structural equation modeling. ResultsThe generated measurement model demonstrated valid and reliable estimates. Its structural model (R2 = 0.64) had a good fit (GoF = 0.56) with consistent quality indices. It also indicated that performance expectancy, facilitating conditions, and information quality are significant (p < 0.05) factors explaining behavioral intention to use the virtual coach system among older adults. ConclusionThe belief in technology usefulness, trust, data quality, and the value of shared responsibility between the technology promoters and users significantly facilitates behavioral intention to use mixed reality virtual coach systems. The study results are valuable in developing technologies and improving older adult participation in technology-driven community health programs.

A Usability Survey of a Quality Improvement Data Visualization Tool among Medical Intensive Care Unit Nurses

Abstract Background Cognitive overload is prevalent among intensive care unit (ICU) clinicians. Data visualization may decrease cognitive load by assisting with data interpretation and task prioritization. We developed the Bundle Board to display real-time data from the electronic medical record (EMR), highlighting opportunities for action in standardized ICU patient care. This study evaluates the practical usability of this data visualization tool among nurses in the ICU. Methods The tool is offered as an application separate from the EMR and was available in the medical ICU for 8 months before we surveyed unit nursing staff. To evaluate usability of the tool, we adapted the Health-Information Technology Usability Scale and included an option to provide open-ended feedback. Survey data were analyzed using quantitative and qualitative methods. Results ICU nurses were invited to participate through email and verbal announcements. Of the potential participants, 38% (N = 47) responded. The survey demonstrated that the tool was perceived as usable. For each subscale, mean scores were as follows: Perceived Ease of Use 4.40, Impact 4.14, User Control 4.07, and Perceived Usefulness 3.61. There were no significant differences between core and contracted nurses or after stratifying by duration of Bundle Board use. Fifteen respondents completed the optional free-text portion of the survey. Qualitative analysis revealed six subthemes focusing on perceived impacts on quality and safety, cognitive burden and workload, and emotional impact of the Bundle Board. Conclusion The Bundle Board demonstrated good usability among ICU nurses, who provided substantive feedback for its improvement. These observations may be generalizable to other comparable interventions. Iterative feedback from end users is vital to developing and implementing a digital health intervention. Our study provides a framework for performing a usability analysis within a specific clinician population and environment.

Visual Elements in Digital Technology Platforms and Visualized Communication in Spreading of False Information

Digital technology has demonstrated humongous benefits in spreading of information and awareness creation. Digital media platforms are observable facts that have turned out to be pervasive as the presence and use of digital platforms by netizens. Even more puzzling in several discourses is the near absence of the cultural strengthening and self-motivated of existence, particularly in Nigeria. This represents a new boundary of challenge. The use of visual elements in digital technology platforms and visualized communication in spreading of false information in Nigeria should be regulated. Its format is most used in promoting this practice. The major platforms used are WhatsApp, Facebook, YouTube and Instagram. This study utilized Survey design to obtain secondary data in literature and descriptive statistics were adopted using a self-structured questionnaire. The study adopts Technological Determinism theory and Disruptive Technology theory in observation of distinctiveness submissions to better knowledge of netizens behavioural pattern. Findings reveal that that digital technology user’s spread false information to gain attention, although significant confidence is placed on digital media platforms; many netizens hide their real identities. The study found out that false information spread through it creates panic and tension, pseudo identities dictate because sharing personal information violates long-standing culture of social identity secrecy entrenched in customary traditions in many parts of Nigeria. It was also found that emergence and continual spreading of false information need to be dealt with by imbibing societal value re-orientation for digital technology users; building their understanding and educating the masses. Spreading of false information has given rise to insecurity in Nigerian. Several unknown armed groups, tribal mercenaries and religious fundamentalist are proof of banditry and insecurity in Nigeria. Aside explaining themselves with overt and covert cultural distinctions of digital technology users, the study concludes that software engineers in Nigeria require developing modified software and re-categorizing bots accounts, and chat-bots especially into algorithmic template because of the socio-psychological peculiarities of the clime. The paper recommends the potential valuing and strengthening of digital technology platforms in ensuring reduction of spreading of false information in Nigeria.

Satisfaction of wheelchair users in the Baixada Santista Metropolitan Region

This article seeks to identify user satisfaction in relation to wheelchairs and the provision of public and private health services in the Baixada Santista Metropolitan Region. It involved a cross-sectional study with a quantitative approach. Participants answered a sociodemographic questionnaire and the Brazilian version of the Quebec Assistive Technology User Satisfaction Assessment. Data were analyzed using descriptive and comparative statistics by means of Student's t test. Cohen's d effect sizes were also calculated. Participants (n = 42) were "more or less satisfied" with the wheelchairs and "quite satisfied" with the services provided. Rigid frame wheelchair users were significantly more satisfied with their wheelchairs compared to users of wheelchairs weighing over 198 lbs. (p = 0.010, d = 1.04). Users of private services showed significantly greater satisfaction with the provision of the service compared to public services users (p = 0.021, d = 0.75). Wheelchair users in the Baixada Santista Metropolitan Region are more satisfied with the rigid frame wheelchair and less satisfied with public services.

A Deep Learning Approach to Automatic Tooth Detection and Numbering in Panoramic Radiographs: An Artificial Intelligence Study

Objective: n this study, in order to test the usability of artificial intelligence technologies in dentistry, which are becoming widespread and expanding day by day, and to investigate ways to benefit more from artificial intelligence technologies; a tooth detection and numbering study was performed on panoramic radiographs using a deep learning software.&#x0D; Methods: A radiographic dataset containing 200 anonymous panoramic radiographs collected from individuals over the age of 18 was assessed in this retrospective investigation. The images were separated into three groups: training (80%), validation (10%), and test (10%), and tooth numbering was performed with the DCNN artificial intelligence software.&#x0D; Results: The D-CNN system has been successful in detecting and numbering teeth. of teeth. The predicted precision, sensitivity, and F1 score were 0.996 (98.0%), 0.980 (98.0%), and 0.988 (98.8%), respectively.&#x0D; Conclusion: The precision, sensitivity and F1 scores obtained in our study were found to be high, as 0.996 (98.0%), 0.980 (98.0%) and 0.988 (98.8%), respectively. Although the current algorithm based on Faster R-CNN shows promising results, future studies should be done by increasing the number of data for better tooth detection and numbering results.

The use of augmented reality technologies in tourism businesses from the perspective of UTAUT2

PurposeAugmented reality is one of the technologies that developed and became widespread, especially after the 2000s. It is seen that innovations such as 3D virtual reality glasses, artificial intelligence-supported smart chatbots that communicate with customers in a virtual environment, keyless hotel systems, the Internet of Things, augmented reality applications, smart personal assistants, digital infrastructure concepts and face recognition systems are used in tourism businesses. The place and use of augmented reality technologies in tourism enterprises are discussed in this study. This study was evaluated from the perspective of UTAUT2. The purpose of this study is to examine the usability of augmented reality technologies in tourism businesses.Design/methodology/approachWithin the scope of the study, interviews were held with augmented reality application developers, digital marketing agencies and accommodation business managers. The obtained data were processed with the MAXQDA analysis program.FindingsIt has been determined that augmented reality is a useful and informative technological tool for tourists, it can help sales, promotion and marketing activities, and its usability potency in accommodation businesses is high.Originality/valueWhen the literature is reviewed, it is understood that the studies that apply to the opinions of the application developers and the managers of the accommodation establishments are limited. Therefore, this study has been prepared to contribute to the literature in this respect. This study examines and discusses the use of augmented reality technologies in tourism enterprises, the benefits and difficulties they will create from the perspective of application developers and accommodation business managers and their place in tourism enterprises. This study was evaluated from the perspective of UTAUT2. There is a need for research developed using UTAUT models in technology acceptance studies. In this respect, it will contribute to the literature.

INNOVATION IN DATA STORAGE TECHNOLOGIES: FROM CLOUD COMPUTING TO EDGE COMPUTING

In an era where data is the new gold, understanding the evolution and future trajectory of data storage technologies is crucial. This paper delves into the transformative journey from traditional storage methods to contemporary paradigms like cloud and edge computing, underpinned by the burgeoning influence of Big Data, IoT, AI, and machine learning. The study's aim is to provide a comprehensive analysis of these technologies, assessing their development, efficacy, and the challenges they face in meeting the escalating demands of data storage.&#x0D; The methodology employed is a meticulous synthesis of literature reviews, case studies, and comparative analyses. This approach facilitates an in-depth exploration of the historical evolution of data storage, the paradigm shifts from cloud to edge computing, and the interplay between technological advancements and user demands. The study also scrutinizes the security concerns inherent in these technologies and identifies strategic directions for future research. Key findings reveal that while cloud computing has revolutionized data storage with its scalability and flexibility, edge computing emerges as a vital solution to latency and bandwidth limitations. The integration of AI and machine learning is identified as a pivotal factor in enhancing the efficiency and intelligence of data storage systems. However, this integration presents unique challenges, necessitating innovative solutions. Conclusively, the study recommends a continued focus on innovation in data storage technologies, emphasizing the development of integrated, secure, and efficient solutions. Future research should particularly explore the potential of AI and machine learning in overcoming current limitations.&#x0D; The paper's scope encompasses a comprehensive overview of the current state and future potential of data storage technologies, making it a valuable resource for researchers, technologists, and policymakers in the field.&#x0D; Keywords: Data Storage Technologies, Cloud Computing, Edge Computing, Big Data, Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial Intelligence (AI).

Development of an Assessment Scale for Measurement of Usability and User Experience Characteristics of Bing Chat Conversational AI

After the introduction of the ChatGPT conversational artificial intelligence (CAI) tool in November 2022, there has been a rapidly growing interest in the use of such tools in higher education. While the educational uses of some other information technology (IT) tools (including collaboration and communication tools, learning management systems, chatbots, and videoconferencing tools) have been frequently evaluated regarding technology acceptance and usability attributes of those technologies, similar evaluations of CAI tools and services like ChatGPT, Bing Chat, and Bard have only recently started to appear in the scholarly literature. In our study, we present a newly developed set of assessment scales that are related to the usability and user experiences of CAI tools when used by university students, as well as the results of evaluation of these assessment scales specifically regarding the CAI Bing Chat tool (i.e., Microsoft Copilot). The following scales were developed and evaluated using a convenience sample (N = 126) of higher education students: Perceived Usefulness, General Usability, Learnability, System Reliability, Visual Design and Navigation, Information Quality, Information Display, Cognitive Involvement, Design Appeal, Trust, Personification, Risk Perception, and Intention to Use. For most of the aforementioned scales, internal consistency (Cronbach alpha) was in the range from satisfactory to good, which implies their potential usefulness for further studies of related attributes of CAI tools. A stepwise linear regression revealed that the most influential predictors of Intention to Use Bing Chat (or ChatGPT) in the future were the usability variable Perceived Usefulness and two user experience variables—Trust and Design Appeal. Also, our study revealed that students’ perceptions of various specific usability and user experience characteristics of Bing Chat were predominantly positive. The evaluated assessment scales could be beneficial in further research that would include other CAI tools like ChatGPT/GPT-4 and Bard.

OLDER ADULTS’ PERSPECTIVES ON USING TECHNOLOGY TO ASSESS SOCIAL ISOLATION AT THE ONSET OF COVID-19

Abstract Social isolation (SI) among older adults (OA) is a global health issue that was exacerbated by the pandemic. This study examines OA’s perspectives on technology use (i.e., home-based ambient sensor or wearable technology) to assess SI, with consideration of understanding these perspectives in relation to the pandemic. Two questions were examined: (i) How familiar are OA with technology that can be used to assess SI? and (ii) Are OA agreeable to using technology to assess SI? Online surveys (n=4379) and semi-structured interviews were completed by community-dwelling OA at the onset of COVID-19. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and qualitative data were analyzed using content analysis. From survey responses, 16.79% indicated they would be agreeable to using technology to assess SI, whereas 40.37% and 42.83% indicated no and maybe/not sure, respectively. Although most participants were familiar with some technologies that could be used as part of an SI assessment tool, interviews suggested they were unfamiliar with this application of technologies. Preliminary analysis of the interviews (n=31) revealed three broad categories addressing the research questions: (1) perceived barriers to sensor-based technology adoption, (2) user experience and acceptance, and (3) changing social norms. Our study is one of the first to examine the views of OA regarding familiarity and openness to technology use for SI assessment that emerged with COVID-19. Technology developers and healthcare providers need to address ethical concerns around sensor-based technology use and increase opportunities to improve OA’s digital literacy and accessibility to support technology acceptance for SI assessment.

Continue staying in online health platforms or not: the moderating role of threat appraisal

PurposeThis study aims to study the mechanisms and conditions of users' intention to continue to use online health platforms from an information technology (IT) affordance perspective.Design/methodology/approachb This research proposes that a critical affordance effect on an online health platform, users' intention to continue the use of the platform, is affected by five platform affordances via two actualized affordances (i.e. perceived benefits (PBs) and online engagement (OE)). Perceived health threat moderates the effect generated by affordance actualization. A dataset involving 409 users from the “Ping An Health” platform was collected through an online survey and analyzed to validate the research hypotheses.FindingsThe data analysis results confirm that the proposed online health platform affordances affect users' PBs and OE, which influence users' intentions to continue using the platform. Perceived threats (perceived vulnerability (PVU) and perceived severity (PSE)) moderate the relationship between PBs and continuance intention (CI) and between OE and CI.Practical implicationsThe research provides important recommendations for online health platform designers to develop IT affordances that can support users' needs for healthcare services.Originality/valueLimited studies investigated why users continue participating in online diagnosis and treatment. This study provides a new perspective to expand the affordance framework by combining technology features and user health behavior. The study also emphasizes the importance of perceived threats in IT use.

Analysis of the Use of Distance Learning Technology in Universities in the Riau Islands Province with the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM)

The problem that is the focus of the research is the use of distance learning technology at universities in the Riau Islands Province using the Technology Acceptance Model approach. This research aims to analyze user perceptions on ease of use, usability, usage behavior, and use of distance learning technology. This research aims to determine user perceptions of distance learning technology in universities in the Riau Islands Province. Apart from that, this research also aims to evaluate the influence of the ease of use perspective, usability perspective, and usage behavior on the use of distance learning technology. The research results show that research respondents, who are academics and staff at universities in the Riau Islands Province, have a high perception of distance learning technology. From the test results, it was found that there was no significant influence between the ease of se perspective and the usability perspective on the use of distance learning technology. However, usage behavior has a significant influence on the use of distance learning technology. Apart from that, these three variables together have an influence of 69.70% on the use of distance learning technology.

A study on the strategic momentum of SMEs’ digital transformation: Evidence from China

The digital transformation of Chinese SMEs faces the reality of slow start-up and difficult deepening. Considering the multi-stage characteristics of SMEs' digital transformation, this article is drawn on the theory of strategic momentum and the TOE framework is improved to examine the process of Chinese SMEs' digital transformation from the dimensions of response speed and implementation depth. Data from 221SMEs is analyzed through the fsQCA to explore the complex interactions between digital technology, organization, environment and the initial and deepening stages of Chinese SMEs' digital transformation. Three key findings are revealed. Firstly, to effectively promote the initiation speed and implementation depth of SMEs' digital transformation, a collaborative effort is required by entrepreneurs, digital service companies, customers, and government. Secondly, external factors have a significant promoting effect on both the initial and deepening stage of SMEs' digital transformation. Of particular note is the usability of digital technology, which is indicated to be a crucial factor for both the initial and integration stage. This indicates that SMEs exhibit a heightened sensitivity to the complexity and future uncertainty of digital technologies. Thirdly, by promoting the digitalization of industrial clusters, the deepening stage can be facilitated effectively by governments.

Innovative telemedicine technology usage in rare diseases management in primary care in a COVID-19 pandemic era: Lessons learnt and recommendations for future practice

COVID-19 affected routine healthcare significantly and impaired the capability of healthcare organizations to deliver quality healthcare to achieve expected patient outcomes, including the care of patients with rare diseases. The rationale for this review is to highlight the important contribution of telemedicine technology to improving care quality of patients with rare diseases in a pandemic era. Aims and Objective: To explore the role and impact of telemedicine digital technology usage and user satisfaction in patients with rare diseases in the last two years since the COVID-19 pandemic. Methodology: An electronic database search was conducted using the PRISMA guide with search terms ‘telemedicine’ and ‘rare diseases’ in the last 2 years since the COVID-19 pandemic. The final search identified about 10 papers after screening, applying the exclusion criteria and sorting for eligibility and relevance. Results: Of the 10 papers reviewed, 6 were research articles while 4 were review articles. For the research papers there were 5239 participants or responders in total, with 1476 (28.2%) patients, 50 (0.01%) carers and 3713 (70.9%) clinicians and workers. The average age recorded by 4 of the research papers was 43.4 years while one paper particularly emphasized that telemedicine digital technology was used preferably by clinicians below 50 years of age. 52.5% of Clinician and Worker participants in 2 Studies were Male while 47.5% were Female, while only 22% of patient participants were Male, with 78% being Female. One paper recorded the proportion of patients who used telemedicine as 22.8 %, a second recorded the highest proportion of clinicians’ telemedicine usage as 59.8%, a third paper concluded the highest number of carers who were satisfied with telemedicine usage was 90%, with 58% also supporting its usage and a fourth recorded that 86% of patients were satisfied with its usage. However, another paper recorded that 26% of clinicians (psychiatrists) were not keen to use telemedicine. Conclusion: This review concludes that there is some evidence that telemedicine digital technology is a viable option and can be a long-term solution to primary care patients’ access to quality care in the post-pandemic era, including patients with rare diseases. International collaboration of clinicians via electronic or digital platforms will enhance quality of care, especially targeted to younger male physicians below the age of 50. Guidelines and protocol for its use within governmental laws and legal boundaries need to be strictly followed to ensure patient safety, reduce waiting times and achieve positive patient outcomes.

THE EFFECTIVENESS OF ACCOUNTING INFORMATION SYSTEMS MEDIATES THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE SOFTWARE OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY AND USER COMPETENCY TOWARDS THE QUALITY OF ACCOUNTING INFORMATION

This research aims to examine the role of accounting information system effectiveness as a mediator in the relationship between information technology sophistication and user competence on the quality of accounting information. This research method uses a structural equation model with SmartPLS. Researchers distributed questionnaires to health facilities that have BPJS Health services in South Tangerang and Jakarta. The results of this research show that there is a significant relationship between the sophistication of information technology and user competence on the effectiveness of the accounting information system. The results of this research also show that the effectiveness of the accounting information system influences the quality of accounting information. The effectiveness of accounting information systems mediates the relationship between information technology sophistication and user competence on the quality of accounting information. This research provides a holistic model related to the quality of accounting information which is mediated by the effectiveness of the accounting information system.

Modelling STEM learners’ academic performance in advanced level secondary schools with smart classrooms in Rwanda

Smart classroom setting is an effective technology-enhanced pedagogy when an instructor capitalises on the key drivers underlying its success. The objectives of the study are twofold. First, to investigate the factors that impact learners’ academic performance in the smart classroom setting. Second, to determine whether learners’ performance varies based on their gender and prior experience in the smart classroom. Three schools were selected and sampled from a pool of public advanced level (A’ Level) STEM secondary schools with smart classrooms in Rwanda because they were among the first to set up smart classrooms. Data were randomly obtained from 389 learners, majoring in six different combinations. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was used to assess the validity and reliability of the measurement scale. A valid and thought-provoking learners’ academic performance model, to enhance their learning outcomes, is presented. The model was validated using Structural equation modelling (SEM). The results indicated that technology self-efficacy, perceived ease of use, and learning satisfaction were all predictors of learners’ performance. Learners’ perceived ease of use and satisfaction were direct predictors of their performance. Besides, learners’ perceived ease of use and usefulness were directly affected by technology self-efficacy. On the other hand, technology self-efficacy indirectly impacts learners’ performance. The invariance analysis across gender groups revealed that male learners perceive smart classroom technology to be easier to use than females. Meanwhile, no evidence of metric invariance estimation of experience was found. We argue that effective pedagogical approaches can mitigate gender disparities in perceived usability of smart classroom technologies.

Workshop 3: Develop, implement and evaluate technology for social health in dementia: lessons in best practice from the European DISTINCT network

Objective:DISTINCT is a Marie Sklodowska-Curie Innovative Training Network. Supported by the INTERDEM network and European Association of Geriatric Psychiatry, DISTINCT aimed to establish a multi-disciplinary, multi-professional and intersectorial European research framework, for assistive technologies to support social health in dementia. In this symposium, we present research associated with the maturity lifecycle (development to evaluation) of four technologies: the ROADMAP online self-management intervention; online peer support for people with young onset dementia; online acceptance and commitment therapy for caregivers (ACT); and the FindMyApps tablet-based intervention for people with dementia and their caregiver.Method:In 2019, 15 ESRs were recruited to 13 research organizations across 8 European countries. Research projects were launched in collaboration with people living with dementia and caregivers, and industry partners. Projects were adapted to meet challenges and opportunities due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The projects presented in this symposium employed a variety of research paradigms (user-centred design, feasibility and implementation studies, randomized controlled trials). Key insights from each project were combined into best practice guidance for developers, researchers, healthcare professionals and people living with dementia, covering the full innovation lifecycle.Results:All DISTINCT research projects are now in the final stages, having so far resulted in more than 35 peer reviewed publications and many contributions to international conferences. Insights were incorporated into the Best Practice Guidance for Human Interaction with Technology in Dementia, published in December 2022, which will be updated by the end of 2023 with further insights from completed projects. Key findings presented in this symposium concern: development of ROAD MAP online; best practices for, and barriers to, online peer support; acceptability and preliminary effectiveness of online ACT; effectiveness and cost effectiveness of FindMyApps.Conclusion:There is growing evidence that assistive technologies are feasible and effective for supporting social health of people with dementia and caregivers. People living with dementia, formal and informal caregivers, policymakers, designers, and researchers can refer to the DISTINCT Best Practice Guidance to inform their approach to assistive technology. Future research can build on these results, to further understand and improve usability, (cost-)effectiveness, and implementation of assistive technology in dementia.

Mixed methods usability evaluation of an assistive wearable robotic hand orthosis for people with spinal cord injury

BackgroundRobotic hand orthoses (RHO) aim to provide grasp assistance for people with sensorimotor hand impairment during daily tasks. Many of such devices have been shown to bring a functional benefit to the user. However, assessing functional benefit is not sufficient to evaluate the usability of such technologies for daily life application. A comprehensive and structured evaluation of device usability not only focusing on effectiveness but also efficiency and satisfaction is required, yet often falls short in existing literature. Mixed methods evaluations, i.e., assessing a combination of quantitative and qualitative measures, allow to obtain a more holistic picture of all relevant aspects of device usability. Considering these aspects already in early development stages allows to identify design issues and generate generalizable benchmarks for future developments.MethodsWe evaluated the short-term usability of the RELab tenoexo, a RHO for hand function assistance, in 15 users with tetraplegia after a spinal cord injury through a comprehensive mixed methods approach. We collected quantitative data using the Action Research Arm Test (ARAT), the System Usability Scale (SUS), and timed tasks such as the donning process. In addition, qualitative data were collected through semi-structured interviews and user observations, and analyzed with a thematic analysis to enhance the usability evaluation. All insights were attributed and discussed in relation to specifically defined usability attributes such as comfort, ease of use, functional benefit, and safety.ResultsThe RELab tenoexo provided an immediate functional benefit to the users, resulting in a mean improvement of the ARAT score by 5.8 points and peaking at 15 points improvement for one user (clinically important difference: 5.7 points). The mean SUS rating of 60.6 represents an adequate usability, however, indicating that especially the RHO donning (average task time = 295 s) was perceived as too long and cumbersome. The participants were generally very satisfied with the ergonomics (size, dimensions, fit) of the RHO. Enhancing the ease of use, specifically in donning, increasing the provided grasping force, as well as the availability of tailoring options and customization were identified as main improvement areas to promote RHO usability.ConclusionThe short-term usability of the RELab tenoexo was thoroughly evaluated with a mixed methods approach, which generated valuable data to improve the RHO in future iterations. In addition, learnings that might be transferable to the evaluation and design of other RHO were generated, which have the potential to increase the daily life applicability and acceptance of similar technologies.

Quantifying Parkinson’s disease severity using mobile wearable devices and machine learning: the ParkApp pilot study protocol

IntroductionThe clinical assessment of Parkinson’s disease (PD) symptoms can present reliability issues and, with visits typically spaced apart 6 months, can hardly capture their frequent variability. Smartphones and smartwatches along...

Caregivers use of technology delivered intervention: The role of computer proficiency

AbstractBackgroundTechnology delivered interventions are becoming increasingly common as they are considered a cost‐efficient and an effective way to deliver self‐administered education and support to caregivers. These technology‐based interventions have been shown to benefit caregivers by increasing their ability to help cope with caregiver stress. There are also potential challenges associated with technology use such as lack of “meaningful access” to technology systems for some segments of the population (e.g., older adults, individuals of lower socio‐economic status) and usability problems. The purpose of this study is to explore the role of caregiver characteristics and competencies when evaluating the effectiveness of technology‐based interventions.MethodTime for Living and Caring (TLC) is an on‐line intervention that provides virtual coaching and self‐administered education and resources to caregivers, with the primary goal of helping them schedule and maximize the utility of their respite time. We conducted a pilot test, where Alzheimer’s and related dementia caregivers (n = 159) used the tool for 16 weeks. Our baseline survey of participants employed the Computer Proficiency Questionnaire, or CPQ‐12, to measure various computer proficiencies. This score was then used to investigate differences in overall appraisal of the intervention and self‐reported caregiver outcomes post intervention.ResultOur findings indicate that CPQ does decrease by age (P&gt;|t| = .000), but that the TLC intervention received favorable reviews despite one’s CPQ score. This includes participant’s self‐perceived benefits, willingness to recommend the intervention to others, and their own willingness to use TLC in the future. It is noted that this sample was highly educated and proficient with technology. This is part selection, given the nature of the study and recruitment strategies. However, these findings also challenge the narrative that older adults are less capable or willing to use on‐line resources.ConclusionOverall, computer proficiency was lower among older participants as expected, but computer proficiency was not associated with the evaluation of the intervention or the benefits to caregiver well‐being. Using a design process that focuses on universal design principals, and considers the needs and characteristics of the target population, appears to increase accessibility and usability of technology delivered intervention for caregiver support.