Of 45 adults over 50 who had computer experience, 44% reported difficulty reading screens, 53% were frustrated by complex software, and 27% had difficulty with the mouse. The physical characteristics of aging should be considered in designing special software features such as dynamic text resizing and menu buttons instead of pull-down menus. (SK)

Computer-based communication has tremendous potential to support older adults. But if people are to use such systems autonomously, it is necessary to move beyond current interfaces and systems and develop devices that fit into the environment of the user. Using a Grounded Theory approach, three focus groups were held and, subsequently, 9 older…

This article proposes three guidelines for mobile technology design that address the needs and goals of teachers who are considered mainstream with regard to technology use. Devices should be easy to learn and use, focused on the curriculum, and instruction-friendly. Only if the three guidelines are followed by hardware and software developers…

Examines differences between the formal features of commercial versus noncommercial Web sites, and the relationship between Web page complexity and amount of traffic a site receives. Findings indicate that, although most pages in this stage of the Web's development remain technologically simple and noninteractive, there are significant…

This paper discusses psychological effects associated with the latest technology in computer interfaces. Emphasis is given to issues involved with multi-media systems and the development of the self on emotional, intellectual, and social levels. A review of technology attitudes and individual differences is presented in relation to the voluntary…