title: A pilot study exploring electronic (or e-mail) mail in users with acquired cognitive-linguistic impairments.
abstract: This paper reports the results of an exploratory study into the usability of a simplified e-mail interface for eight individuals with acquired cognitive-linguistic impairments. Participatory Action Research, a qualitative research method, was used to capture the range of performance variables and to emphasize a 'user-centred' approach to the research process. The participants were asked to read and reply to e-mails across four writing prompt conditions. An analysis of errors and participant preferences for the prototype e-mail system was conducted. Errors fell into two general categories: (1) computer usability (e.g. conceptual understanding of mouse/cursor operation) and (2) message composition (e.g. generating ideas for a message). Participant preferences for the writing prompt conditions varied considerably. All participants endorsed the use of customized e-mail interfaces as a means of connecting with friends and family, thereby reducing social isolation. Implications for interface design, rehabilitation and future research into assistive technology are discussed.
authors.affiliation: Communication Disorders and Sciences Programme, College of Education, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR 97403-5284, USA. mckay@oregon.uoregon.edu
authors.forename: McKay Moore
authors.initials: MM
authors.lastname: Sohlberg
authors.forename: Laurie A
authors.initials: LA
authors.lastname: Ehlhardt
authors.forename: Stephen
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Fickas
authors.forename: Alistair
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Sutcliffe
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001930:Brain Injuries / Q000150:complications / Q000523:psychology / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D002755:Choice Behavior; D003072:Cognition Disorders / Q000523:psychology / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D003142:Communication; D016287:Computer Peripherals; D034742:Electronic Mail; D004867:Equipment Design; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007806:Language Disorders / Q000523:psychology / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D007859:Learning Disabilities / Q000523:psychology / Q000534:rehabilitation; D008297:Male; D008569:Memory Disorders / Q000523:psychology / Q000534:rehabilitation; D008838:Microcomputers; D008875:Middle Aged; D010865:Pilot Projects