ABSTRACT

Researchers studying human behavior with mobile devices are not only challenged with collecting quality data like other researchers, but they are also challenged with time limitations due to the speed of technological changes.  According to Roser and Ritchie (2013), technology is outdated in eighteen months.  This speed does not allow researchers a lot of time to conduct quality research.  However, technology can provide new tools to help researchers collect and analyze data.  I have designed a research data collection mobile app, called Rex, with a device data feature to enable researchers, in studies where applicable, the ability to easily allow participants to consent and share device data. The purpose of this study is to conduct a usability test to measure Rex’s ease of use, intuitiveness, and trustworthiness in order to encourage participation and minimize bias towards tech-savvy individuals. This study set out to answer the research question:  Will mobile device users participate in studies on Rex? The results showed that the concept of a data collection mobile app like Rex was well received by the participants. However, the success of Rex will depend on the usability as well as how Rex is introduced and marketed to the participant.

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DATE

August 2020

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CITATION

Birdsall, N. L. (2020). Usability Study of a Data Collection Mobile Application for Mobile Device Research. Doctoral Research Proposal. Golden Gate University.