What does the term 'Acceptance Time' refer to in scanning methods?

The term 'Acceptance Time' refers to the duration a user pauses at a choice during directed scanning. This is a critical concept in scanning methods, particularly for individuals who may have difficulty with traditional input methods due to physical or cognitive limitations.

In directed scanning, users navigate through options presented on a screen or another interface. Acceptance Time is essentially a measure of how long a user stays focused on a specific option before making a selection. This pause indicates that the user has identified the choice they wish to select and is ready to confirm that selection. Understanding Acceptance Time is crucial for designing effective scanning systems, as it informs how long users might need to pause for reliable input, ensuring a balance between speed and accuracy in their interactions. Adjustments to scanning speed may be made based on observations of users' Acceptance Times to improve usability and reduce frustration for those using assistive technology.