Short-term memory factor in the design of data-entry keyboards: An interface between short-term memory and S-R compatibility

Abstract

An experiment on immediate recall of an 8-digit sequence was carried out. Mode of recall was via a data-entry keyboard. 2 keyboard layouts were used, 1 of high and 1 of low compatibility. The low-compatibility keyboard required more time for entry and gave more errors. These extra errors were identified as being primarily memory rather than aiming errors. The results are discussed in terms of an interface between short-term memory and S-R compatibility; they are held to support a memory model involving a limited-capacity channel, and a practical design conclusion is suggested. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2025 APA, all rights reserved)