Google maps
- 1. on the iPhone&Cognitive LoadLarissa majlessi
- 2. The BasicsStandard map on the iPhoneOperates by touch screen and typingHas an easy to navigate and well-organized interface which allows IPhone users to find and use numerous features from one main frame, incorporating GPS technology
- 4. Search & GPSUsers can search for a location by address, name or 3-digit airport code using the standard keyboard or by finding a pre-stored address from bookmarks or contacts. The user can also pinpoint his or her location from the main page in seconds and use the moving point to navigate her movement in real time.
- 5. CompassThere is a standard compass indicating the iPhone’s direction, which is always viewable on the top iPhone frame. Users never have to leave the map to orient themselves to their direction.
- 6. DirectionsThe directions option on the main frame gives step by step instructions via car, public transportation or walking to any point from any point, including addresses or the current location determined by GPS. Image icons and text make these options simple to locate.
- 7. DirectionsThe user can drop a pin in two clicks to indicate a location of interest and share with others via email or SMS. Users can also check real time traffic in order to select the most optimal route, via the corner icon on the main frame. This icon is the only extra menu outside of the main map, leaving users with little ability to get lost looking for features within the application.
- 8. Satellite ViewUsers are not limited to the basic map view. A satellite view, a hybrid view and a list view are all accessible in two clicks to suit the users’ needs, without losing their place on the map.
- 9. More DetailsClicking on the prominent “more details” arrow that appears next to a map’s address result gives users the option to call the location, visit their web site, get directions, add to contacts, share location or add to bookmarks with just one touch of the screen. Or they can return to the previous screen with one touch of a standardly located “back” button.
- 10. Street ViewUsers can also see an actual location via Street View with the click of the street view icon on the touch screen. A single touch of the street view gives the option for the user to return to the map in one more click. Note that Street View is available after the address has already been retrieved and not from the main frame.
- 11. Zoom In and OutZooming into a location is simple by either a single-finger double tap of the screen or by using standard touch screen zoom pinch with two fingers. Zoom out with a two-finger double tap of the screen or standard pinching outwardly.
- 12. Cognitive Load in Google MapsCognitive Load provides a framework for instructional designers to ensure that a learning environment is advantageously designed with the end result of optimal learning within the constructs of the working memory and the long-term memory. This is accomplished by decreasing extraneous cognitive load during learning, and refocusing the learner's attention toward germane resources, increasing automated schemas.Source: Paas, Renkl, Sweller (2010)
- 13. Cognitive Load in Google MapsGoogle Maps has a low Intrinsic cognitive load, with a low level of difficulty. The one main frame of the app allows users to search and use features without ever leaving their map and main functions.Google Maps also does not create extraneous cognitive load. There are no difficult problems to solve that fill up the user’s working memory. And should there be numerous locations to remember, easy bookmarking features allow the application to save the locations without the user needing to fill up his working memory.
- 14. SummaryIn Summary, the iPhone’s standard Google Map application is incredibly efficient with an easy-to-navigate user interface design.Standard design features and universal icons allow the user to quickly remember Google Maps’ features with limited repetition. With just one main frame with almost all features available from this frame, navigating via mobile couldn’t get easier.