Reminders, alerts and pop-ups: The cost of computer-initiated interruptions

Helen M. Hodgetts*, Dylan M. Jones

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

21 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Responding to computer-initiated notifications requires a shift in attention that disrupts the flow of work. The degree of cost associated with resuming the original task following interruption may be dependent upon such factors as the transition between tasks (was the worker able to consolidate his/her place in the main task before engaging in the interruption?) as well as the nature of the interrupting task itself (e.g., length or complexity). The current paper reviews a number of studies from our laboratory that investigate the effects of brief interruptions to the execution phase of computer-based 5-disk Tower of London problems. The results are interpreted within the theoretical framework of the goal-activation model and suggestions are made for practical applications that may help to minimize the disruption caused.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationHuman-Computer Interaction - Interaction Design and Usability
Subtitle of host publication12th International Conference, HCI International 2007, Proceedings
PublisherSpringer Verlag
Pages818-826
Number of pages9
ISBN (Print)3540731040, 9783540731047
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2007
Externally publishedYes
Event12th International Conference on Human-Computer Interaction, HCI International 2007 - Beijing, China
Duration: 22 Jul 200727 Jul 2007

Publication series

NameLecture Notes in Computer Science
Volume4550
ISSN (Print)0302-9743
ISSN (Electronic)1611-3349

Conference

Conference12th International Conference on Human-Computer Interaction, HCI International 2007
Country/TerritoryChina
CityBeijing
Period22/07/0727/07/07

Keywords

  • Activation
  • Goals
  • Interruption
  • Memory
  • Tower of London

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