Browse Theses

The thesis of this research is that the usefulness of voice Input/Output (I/O) for computer systems can be determined through a set of defining characteristics. These characteristics can be divided into two main groups: (a) those conditions necessary for the viability of any voice communication system, and (b) additional features that may not be vital for the system, but if implemented, would greatly enhance its usability.The purpose of the research was to develop a paper and pencil instrument for evaluating the usefulness of speech in user-computer communication. The items in the instrument were obtained by identifying features that are considered imperative and/or desirable in either a voice input or voice output system. These features were assembled in three groups: items related to the users, items related to the tasks, and items related to the environment in which the system would be present. They were validated by an analysis of their contents, an empirical content validation study, and field observation studies of two operational voice systems. Finally, the effects of voice feedback on performance were investigated in a laboratory simulation experiment.