Impact of Computer-User Interface on Document Quality

Abstract

This study examined the relationship between computer-user interface (character based or graphical) and the quality of written documents. Students were randomly assigned to one of two business communication labs, Macintosh or IBM. Both groups received identical lectures on business communication principles and practices. T-test analyses of two documents produced during the course compared the groups on four document criteria: content, structure, mechanics, and format. After six weeks of business communication instruction, including three 50-minute class periods of instruction on their respective computers and software, IBM users excelled on the criteria of mechanics (as hypothesized) and format (contrary to the hypothesis). After an additional five weeks of business communication instruction and use of their respective computer systems, the two groups demonstrated no significant differences on any of the criteria. The findings challenge Halio's claims for the superiority of character-based interface. y the mid 1980s, many business communication instructors had B become computer enthusiasts. For example, in a survey of business communication instructors in American Assembly of Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) member schools, Munter (1986) determined that 24 percent of the respondents were using computers in their classes and 61 percent were considering such use. However, Penrose, Bowman, and Flatley (1987) concluded that business communication instructors were not coming to terms with communication technology quickly enough. They urged Association for Business Communication (ABC) members to integrate computer applications into business communication classes.Bridwell, Nancarrow, and Ross (1984), however, warned that little research had been done to substantiate the hopes that computerized text editing would lead to significant differences in writing behavior and in document quality. Despite a growing body of research, as recently as 1991 Hawisher and Selfe cautioned against undue optimism about computer use in writing classes. LITERATURE REVIEW AND HYPOTHESESA review of the literature shows that many questions about the role of computers in writing instruction remain unanswered. Moreover, little attention has been given to the impact of computer-user interface in student writing. The objective of this study was to examine the possible impact of computer-user interface on the quality of student writing in a business communication class.