Learning Cognitive Task Analysis

In this paper we identify and describe a number of issues and difficulties faced by HCI postgraduate students when they learn about cognitive task analysis and how to carry it out. Cognitive task analysis is a set of techniques used to elicit descriptions of the considerations and thinking strategies invoked by people, say, during the use of a piece of technology or system. Such techniques include think aloud methods or in-depth interviews such Critical Decision Method. This work is based on a preliminary pilot assessment to review how teaching of CTA is carried out and how it can be improved.