The directional effects on cursor dragging kinematics

Abstract

There has no study to substantiate the kinematical characteristics of cursor dragging movement. In this present study, we developed a computerized measuring program and used the experimental research method to explore the effect of moving direction on kinematics of cursor dragging in 24 normal participants. The results of multiple one way repeated measures ANOVAs and post hoc LSD tests demonstrated that dragging direction had effects on movement time and movement unit. Dragging leftward showed better efficiency than dragging upward and downward. These directional effects partially clarify how the dragging performances were influenced by the moving direction. Moreover, it can guide us to re-arrange the toolbars and icons under window interface, especially for individuals with physical disability whose performances can be easily interrupted while controlling cursor in specific directions.