Usuários com Síndrome de Down: Como realizar Testes de Usabilidade?

Resumo

In order for the resources of Assistive Technology (AT) to be effective, they must be evaluated by their actual users. Performing usability testing is a practice that allows us to identify problems in the evaluated product and to know the behavior and the impressions of the users regarding the proposed interaction. However, it’s application is challenging for resources intended for people with Down Syndrome because of the cognitive, sensory and motor conditions involved. This article exemplifies the suitability of a systemized and instrumented usability testing process applied to the evaluation of PlayDown by 8 real users. The experience allowed the participation of people with Down Syndrome in the evaluation and identified nine interface problems. The structuring and detailing of the process also allows it to be instantiated for the evaluation of other AT resources targeted to the same public.