The Dyslexic User's Interface Support Tool (DUIST) thesis

Johnson, Mark (2007) 
The Dyslexic User's Interface Support Tool (DUIST) - a framework for performance enhancing interface adaptation strategies for dyslexic computer users. 
Doctoral thesis. The University of Northampton.

Abstract
Due to the nature of the symptoms experienced by dyslexic individuals (e.g. defective visual processing, short term memory deficit and motor control problems) an investigation into support strategies to aid persons suffering from the condition seems strongly justifiable. 

As such, an extensive review of existing support techniques for dyslexic computer users are explored leading to the formulation of four central research models; dyslexia symptoms, symptom alleviating interface strategies, adjustable interface components and a dynamically adaptable interface preference elicitation mechanism. These models provide the foundation for the design of the Dyslexic User’s Interface Support Tool (DUIST) framework.
Using a user centred design approach, the support framework is developed, tested and subsequently evaluated with positive results. Performance gains for dyslexic subjects in reading speed and reading accuracy exemplify the apparent benefits of framework utilisation (e.g. dyslexic mean reading speed increased by 4.98 wpm vs. control gains of 0.18 wpm; dyslexic mean reading errors reduced by 0.64 per 100 words vs. control reductions of 0.06 fewer errors per 100 words). 

Subsequent research into the long-term impact of framework utilisation; the perceived benefits of applying research formulated models to interfaces designed for dyslexics; and alternative strategies to portability all now seem justified. That said, the findings presented thus far warrants investigation by any reader actively interested in dyslexia; strategies for dyslexia symptom relief support environments for dyslexic computer users; applications of adaptive interfaces; and all potential system designers who may be considering developing any type of graphical interface for a dyslexic user group.

To read the thesis go to: http://nectar.northampton.ac.uk/2683/


All views and opinions are the author's and do not necessarily reflected those of any organisation they are associated with. Twitter: @scottturneruon

Cricket AI - Artificial Intelligence in a Framework

Samuel Gibbs

 The task that has been undertaken in this project is that of determining what type of artificial intelligence is the best one to be used in a cricket game. The aimed type of cricket simulator is one for the twenty over (Twenty20) format because this is the newest and as a result least well simulated (in the author’s opinion) of all the formats of cricket by commercially available simulators and games.  The project is using Sun Microsystems Java as the programming language of choice. This will be done by testing a variety of artificial intelligence techniques and finding out which is best.  Also, by building the framework itself, working out what features it needs to make it playable and interesting. These will include at least artificial intelligences that can play the game against a human and if possible a way of selecting which players will play the game. There will also be some technical research done into the different artificial intelligence techniques to help decide which methods should be attempted. To make the framework better there will be testing done of other commercial products in the cricket management and simulator field, this will also give a better understanding of what should be included within the project. The simulator should simulate a game if cricket with batting, bowling and fielding all simulated. The game simulated will initially be between England and Australia, although there is no reason why other teams couldn’t be used.

Computing Courses

BSc and HND Computing Provision (click on the links below for more details of the courses)

• BEng/MEng Computing (Computer Networks Engineering)
• BEng/MEng Computing (Computer Systems Engineering) 

• BSc (Hons) Computing (also available part-time)
• BSc (Hons) Computing (Graphics and Visualisation)
• BSc (Hons) Computing (Internet Technology and Security)
• BSc (Hons) Computing (Mobile Computing)
• BSc (Hons) Computing (Software Engineering)
• BSc (Hons) Computing - One Year Top-Up 
• BSc  Computer Games Development
• HND Computing (Compute​r Net​works Engineering)
• HND Computing (Computer Systems Engineering)
• HND Computing (Graphics and Visualisation)
• HND Computing (Internet Tech​nolog​y and Security)
• HND Computing (Mobile Computing)
• HND Computing (Software Engine​ering) 
• HND Com​puting

The University of Northampton's, Department of Computing and Immersive Technologies offers five courses within the MSc Computing postgraduate provision (shown below) all available either part-time or full-time. 

• MSc Computing
• MSc Computing (Internet Technology and Security)
• MSc Computing (Computer Networks Engineering)
• MSc Computing (Software Engineering)
• MSc Computing (Immersive Technologies)

The contents are the opinion of the author(s) and not necessarily the view of the University of Northampton.