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Abstract

Previous research has shown that spatial ability is associated with performance on information retrieval tasks. Age-related changes in spatial ability may thus explain older adults' tendency to have lower performance on such tasks. However, previous studies have emphasized hierarchical information organization. The current study will examine the extent to which a different information retrieval interface can accommodate age-related changes in cognitive abilities. Younger and older adult performance in two information retrieval interfaces will be compared. One interface is meant to simulate hierarchically organized information systems while the second interface is specifically designed to reduce demands on age-related abilities while increasing demands on age-invariant abilities. It is expected that the results of this study will identify potential methods for improving information retrieval task performance for older adults.

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Accommodating Age-Related Differences in Computer-Based Information Retrieval Tasks

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