HCI 590: Information Architecture

Autumn 2003

Small Project #3

Learning about tasks

Due Tuesday October 7 at class time

Overview

For this week's project you will be comparing two methods for learning about typical tasks that users perform with some information structure. So that we can compare results, we will focus on student users and the CTI Web site.

Conventional query method

Construct a few questions you could ask student for learning about common tasks they perform on the CTI Web site. You may choose the method for how you administer them, such as through email, interview, or written questionnaire. As much as possible, try to learn at least 3 common tasks.

Contextual inquiry

We will discuss contextual inquiry methods in class. Based on our discussions, construct a method to learn about tasks students perform with the CTI Web site. Try to learn about 3 tasks.

Ideally, query different users for both methods.

Report

Summarize both of your methods and the resulting tasks. Discuss and compare the effectiveness of both methods.

Preparation for large project

List and briefly summarize three different project ideas. Ideally the project should consist of an information structure leading to hundreds of content items (real or artificially created).

Submission

Before class time of the due time, have your answers printed out.

Be prepared to discuss your results and analysis in class.