The contradictory nature of the phrase user-oriented interface (UOI) as commonly applied to retrieval systems is discussed, and a different approach to the problem made feasible through improvements in the technology is described. (Author/JPF)

Discusses theory of mental models--i.e., representations of relationships within a system which enable the user to produce mental simulations of the system's actions and develop ways of dealing with it--and its implications for user training, interface design, and overall systems design. (EJS)

Different aspects of human-machine interaction are discussed in the five brief papers that comprise this report. The first paper, "Some Observations on Mental Models," discusses the role of a person's mental model in the interaction with systems. The second paper, "A Psychologist Views Human Processing: Human Errors and Other…

The Network Measurement System (NMS) represents the implementation of a new approach to the performance measurement and evaluation of computer network systems and services. By focusing on the service delivered to network customers at their terminals, rather than on the internal mechanics of network operation, measurements can be obtained which are…

The model presented identifies three basic needs which must be met in order to increase our understanding of the user interface in computerized information systems: empirical studies of users' attitudes; systematic summaries and critical analyses of these studies; and an interim set of guidelines for user interface design. (EJS)

The general goal of this research and development program was to facilitate man-machine communication in areas of high military impact, including on-line computing in communications, command, and control. Highlights of this research include: identification of major causes of man-machine communication difficulty for the computer-naive; discovery of…

This "how to" workshop guide provides an overview of the entire videodisc authoring and production process through six individual modules. Focusing on project planning, the first module provides guidelines, procedures, and job aids to help each instructional development team member effectively use the videodisc medium. The second module…

This third and final report on a 3-year project, which developed authoring and production procedures for interactive videodisc based on the Interservice Procedures for Instructional Systems Development (IPISD), reviews the current state of the art, provides an overview of the project, and describes two videodiscs made for the project and the…

Discusses the Civil Servant Module, a new component of Global Systems Simulation, a comprehensive person-computer model for investigating international affairs. Its telecommunication capability, logistics, functions, spatial flexibility, and advantages are described and its implications for applying Global Systems Simulation as a research and…