Elementary Student Word Processing Operational Errors

Abstract

A keyboard operation recording system was used to record and analyze the process of elementary school student work with a word processor. It was possible to divide operational errors made when using the kana input mode into 20 categories. It was found that the raw number of errors decreased in relation to higher grade level, but that the same types of errors were found at every grade level. In the kana mode, the rate for errors in selection of semi-voiced sound markers, punctuation and shift key operation was 12 times higher than it was for other keyboard operations, meaning that these opera tions are apparently difficult for elementary students. In a series of three experiments, the study also revealed a logarithmically decrease in operational errors between the three grade levels investigated. For those unfamiliar with Japanese word processors, it should be noted that text may be input using either romanization and English alphabet or by using Japanese kana syllabary.