Fundamental Principles of Interaction: Designing User Interfaces for Adaptive, Linear, and Free-Choice Game Navigation Paths

• In Event: Designing for Games, Simulations, and Virtual Learning Environments

Abstract

This study examined the design of user interfaces based on the Fundamental Principles of Interaction (Norman, 2013) in an educational game for three navigation paths: (a) adaptive: game levels are suggested based on student's gameplay progress, (b) linear: levels sequence is predetermined, and (c) free-choice: students choose the levels to play. We conducted internal tests to revise the interfaces and a usability test with 26 students. Results yield recommendations such as applying a matrix interface to boost non-linear gameplay and using constraints such as removing the next button to stimulate players to choose a level. These recommendations are important in experimental research to ensure interfaces are user-friendly and aligned with the player behavioral-patterns to support treatment validity for statistical interpretations.

Authors

• Renata Kuba, Florida State University – Tallahassee

• Jiabei Xu, Florida State University – Tallahassee

• Chih-Pu Dai, Florida State University

• Fengfeng Ke, Florida State University