Pathology Question:
Dr Jones is a pathologist who has recently developed a virtual microscope program for teenagers to use while they are hospitalized. He thinks that teens might use this program to learn more about their illness and the role that pathology plays in the hospital. He has heard that usability is important, so he asks a few of his colleagues to try the program out in their free time and to e-mail their comments to him. Describe 3 specific things that Dr Jones should have done differently in order; to more appropriately assess the usability of his program.
Answer:
(1) Have teens test the program, not physicians;
(2) select specific representative tasks for the assessment (not just "try the program out"); and
(3) observe the participants using the program and have them think aloud during the session rather than e-mail comments.
(2) select specific representative tasks for the assessment (not just "try the program out"); and
(3) observe the participants using the program and have them think aloud during the session rather than e-mail comments.