CRT text layout: perceptions of viewers

摘要

An effective understanding of CRT information display design depends on knowledge about the variety of dimensions that are employed when evaluating the potential of a specific display to be read and studied (i.e., its “study ability”). To isolate ways used to evaluate the study ability of specific text element arrangements, 31 participants sorted a controlled sample of 64 computer-generated text types. Evaluation of the sorts indicated that multiple distinct perceptions characterize people's beliefs regarding text display appearances. Different subsets of participants emphasized different dimensions or evaluative criteria: organization, structure, and simplicity. The perceptions uncovered suggest that designers may manipulate the large number of text format variables to produce an overall display that is systematically arranged in a logical and spacious way.