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Article
Adapting Usability Testing for Oral, Rural Users
Proceedings of the SIGCHI Conference on Human Factors in Computing Systems
  • Trina Gorman
  • Emma J. Rose, University of Washington Tacoma
  • Judith Yaaqoubi
  • Andrew Bayor
  • Beth Kolko
Publication Date
1-1-2011
Document Type
Conference Proceeding
Abstract

Traditional usability methods are of limited use when evaluating systems designed for distant, diverse populations. In this paper, we describe a study conducted in two Ghanaian villages that evaluated an audio computer designed for people living in oral cultures. Informed by ICTD and orality-grounded HCID, we modified existing usability testing practices and we reflect on the utility of these adaptations. We found that conducting a culturally appropriate study often meant forgoing more traditional approaches in favor of flexible, opportunistic methods. We acknowledge the challenges of adapting traditional usability methods for oral, rural users. However, we found that by implementing strategic modifications led by local staff, our study produced valuable, actionable results.

DOI
10.1145/1978942.1979153
Publisher Policy
no SHERPA/RoMEO policy available
Citation Information
Trina Gorman, Emma J. Rose, Judith Yaaqoubi, Andrew Bayor, et al.. "Adapting Usability Testing for Oral, Rural Users" Proceedings of the SIGCHI Conference on Human Factors in Computing Systems (2011) p. 1437 - 1440
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/emma_rose/2/