Technology generation and age in using layered user interfaces

Abstract

Why do older adults encounter more difficulties than younger persons do in using present electronic devices? Two factors may play a role: (1) Age-related decline in ability; (2) Generation-related lack of earlier experience with such user interfaces. In two experiments, performance was compared of four age groups when using simulations of devices with software style user interfaces in one, two, and three menu layers. For task duration only an age effect was found. However, for mode error performance a generation effect appeared in that subjects who experienced software style user interfaces in early adulthood performed better than older subjects who did not have such earlier experience. Within the older subjects, no age effect in error performance was found. The results are interpreted in terms of the generation theory as known from sociological studies in that experiences in the formative period before the age of 25 yrs are more persistent than later ones.