Altering user perceptions of applications: How system design can impact playfulness and anxiety

Abstract

The prevalence of computer-based technologies makes it more difficult for users to find and learn how to use new systems. In addition, the overwhelming amount of information may cause users to have a higher level of anxiety. Users have to spend more time comparing technologies, learning them, and perhaps fixing them when they break. This thesis examines the Technology Acceptance Model and discusses the various determinants of computer usage. Factors of Perceived Ease of Use (PEU) are analyzed, and observations show that computer anxiety negatively impacts system usage. Since many factors can cause computer anxiety, the various determinants of PEU are analyzed in order to see if and how they relate to computer anxiety. And since there are different types of computer anxiety, this thesis addresses a type that is highly encountered—the fear of breaking things. It is shown that perceived playfulness is linked with anxiety, suggesting that if a system is perceived as being more playful, levels of anxiety may decrease. Since certain characteristics can impact computer anxiety and perceived playfulness, our understanding of these aspects can help us develop a system that can provide a positive influential role for systems. A theoretical design solution is proposed.

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