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Model Human Processor (MHP)

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Definition of Model Human Processor (MHP)[1]

The Model Human Processor is a model of a series of information flows in a human from the viewpoint of information processing (Fig. 1). In the model, sensory information is input to perceptual processor, and then processed in cognitive processor, and finally an action is output through the motor system by motor processor.


Model Human Processor
Figure 1. Model Human Processor
source: Procedia


The processing time in each processor and the storage capacity of each memory is indicated in the model. Each processing time of each processor is as follows. The perceptual processor is 100ms. The cognitive processor is 70ms. The motor processor is 70ms. Using every processing time, the model estimates reaction time from the input of the sensation information to the action output through the motor system (Fig. 2). In the Model Human Processor, human reactions are classified into four cases according to the number of times of processing by the cognitive processor. The four cases are Simple reaction, Physical collation reaction, Name collation reaction and Category collation reaction.


MHP Reaction Time
Figure 2. Information processing model for estimation of reaction time
source: Procedia


Example and Rules of Model Human Processor (MHP)[2]

The Model Human Processor, developed by Card, Moran and Newell, is a design tool that is used for creating an effective user interface. It draws an analogy between the processing and storage facilities in a computer system with the perceptual, cognitive, memory and motor activities of a computer user. The Model Human Processor describes how a user interacts with a computer system:

A visual or audible stimulus is captured.
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The physical attributes of the stimulus are decoded.
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Response.


Example

A pop up message appears on the screen (perception).
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The user works out the response that is needed (cognitive processing).
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A motor response is initiated (response).
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The mouse is moved and a button is clicked.

The Model Human Processor provides a set of rules for effective system design:

  • Support recognition rather than recall.
  • Reduce the load on the short term (or working) memory.
  • Support the production of chunks of items to facilitate memory.
  • Frequent activities become automatic and do not require conscious attention.
  • For highly practised responses, requiring a confirmation of the response will not necessarily reduce errors.


See Also

References

  1. What is Model Human Processor (MHP)? Toshitaka Higashino, Yudai Asano, Masato Sog
  2. Exampleand Rules of Model Human Processor (MHP)St. Paul Science


Further Reading