Freeform pen-input as evidence of cognitive load and expertise

doi:10.1145/2070481.2070511

Paper

Freeform pen-input as evidence of cognitive load and expertise

Published Nov 14, 2011 · Natalie Ruiz, R. Taib, Fang Chen

UNKNOWN SJR score

9

Citations

0

Influential Citations

Full text

Semantic Scholar

Abstract

This paper presents a longitudinal study that explores the combined effect of cognitive load and expertise on the use of a scratchpad. Our results confirm that such cognitive support benefits users under high cognitive load through visual aid, perceptual motor use and helps to improve meaningful learning and successful problem solving. Indeed, we found significant changes in stroke frequency affected by cognitive load, which we believe are caused by the scratchpad essentially augmenting or extending working memory capacity. However, the discrepancy between stroke frequencies under low and high load is reduced with expertise. These results indicate that pen stroke frequency, which can be automated with electronic devices, could be used as an indicator of cognitive load, or conversely, of expertise level.

Study Snapshot

Key takeawayScratchpad use improves meaningful learning and problem-solving under high cognitive load, with stroke frequency indicating cognitive load or expertise level.

PopulationOlder adults (50-71 years)

Sample size24

MethodsObservational

OutcomesBody Mass Index projections

ResultsSocial networks mitigate obesity in older groups.

Freeform pen-input as evidence of cognitive load and expertise

References

Citations