Keywords
older adults, digital documents, digital, hyperlinks, comprehension, visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, engagement, reading pleasure, speed, fatigue, Media Readability Testbed, MRT
Abstract
This study explores the impact of font selection, hyperlink presence, memory retention, and visual acuity on digital reading experiences for older adults. Initially designed to evaluate the effects of font types and hyperlinks on reading outcomes, the study adapted its approach after participants indicated a strong dislike for hyperlinks and largely avoided using them. Using a multiple linear regression analysis, this research examines how font choices, memory, and visual acuity influence reading speed, comprehension, engagement, pleasure, and fatigue. Variance Inflation Factor (VIF) analysis was employed to address multicollinearity. Results indicate that familiar fonts, strong memory retention, and good visual acuity enhance engagement, comprehension, and reading pleasure, while older age and specific article types contribute to increased fatigue. These insights provide valuable guidance for optimizing digital content design to improve readability, accessibility, and user experience for aging populations.
Completion Date
2024
Semester
Fall
Committee Chair
Sawyer, Ben D.
Degree
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
College
College of Engineering and Computer Science
Department
Industrial Engineering and Management Systems
Degree Program
Industrial Engineering and Management Systems
Format
Identifier
DP0029042
Language
English
Release Date
12-15-2024
Access Status
Dissertation
Campus Location
Orlando (Main) Campus
STARS Citation
Thomas, Shalah, "Enhancing Digital Reading Experiences for Older Adults: Investigating the Impact of Font Selection and Hyperlinks in Newspaper Articles on Reading Speed, Comprehension, Engagement, Reading Pleasure, and Fatigue" (2024). Graduate Thesis and Dissertation post-2024. 75.
https://stars.library.ucf.edu/etd2024/75
Accessibility Status
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