Background Graphics: A Decision-Making Hindrance or Enhancement?

Abstract

This thesis investigated the influence, if any, of background graphics on the decision making process. Specifically the hypotheses tested the affect of background graphics on a decision makers accuracy and confidence. A literature review revealed an abundance of graphic research but little reference to the use of background graphics. Using guidelines previously created for high integrity graphics, a timed 2 x 2 factorial experimental design was developed to compare the responses to both traditional graphics and those treated with background graphics. One hundred forty-seven subjects, all employees of the United States Air Force or defense contractors were involved in the experiments. The Kruskal-Wallis test was employed to test the hypotheses. The analysis of the test results indicate that background graphics neither affect decision accuracy nor the confidence a decision-maker places in a decision. It was also determined that gender and training have no affect on accuracy and confidence.

Open PDF

Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Sep 01, 1996
Accession Number
ADA319517

Entities

People

  • David L. Peeler Jr.

Organizations

  • Air Force Institute of Technology

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Human Systems

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Accuracy
  • Air Force
  • Contractors
  • Experimental Design
  • Graphics
  • Hypotheses
  • Literature
  • Literature Surveys
  • Theses
  • Training
  • United States

Readers

  • Instructional Design and Training Evaluation.
  • Regression Analysis.
  • Team-Based Human-Centered Cognitive Task Decision Making and Information Performance.