Project Title
An Evaluation of Human–Computer Interaction Principles in YouTube Video Interfaces and
User Engagement
Introduction
YouTube is one of the most widely used video-sharing platforms globally, supporting learning,
entertainment, and information sharing (Khan, 2017; Statista, 2023). Despite its popularity,
users often experience challenges such as information overload, distracting interface elements,
and inconsistent interaction design across devices. These issues can affect usability, accessibility,
and overall user satisfaction. Studying YouTube through a Human–Computer Interaction (HCI)
lens is important because it helps to understand how interface design, interaction patterns, and
content presentation influence user engagement, comprehension, and decision-making (Preece,
Rogers and Sharp, 2019). Insights from this study can inform better interface design for video-
based platforms used in education and everyday life.
Objectives
The main objectives of this project are to:
1. Analyse how HCI principles such as usability, feedback, consistency, and accessibility are
applied in YouTube’s video interface.
2. Examine how interface elements (e.g. recommendations, comments, autoplay, and
controls) influence user engagement and viewing behaviour.
3. Identify usability challenges faced by users when interacting with YouTube videos and
propose possible improvements.
Methodology
The study will adopt a qualitative and descriptive research approach, which is appropriate for
usability and interaction studies in HCI (Creswell, 2014). A sample of popular and educational
YouTube videos will be selected for analysis. The YouTube interface will be evaluated using
established HCI principles such as Nielsen’s usability heuristics (Nielsen, 1994). In addition, short
user observations and informal interviews will be conducted with selected users to understand
their interaction experiences while watching YouTube videos. Data will be analysed thematically
to identify common interaction patterns, usability issues, and user preferences.
The tools and technologies to be used include a web browser, screen recording software for
observing interactions, note-taking tools, and basic data analysis using spreadsheets or word
processing software.
Timeline
Week 1: Literature review on HCI principles and video-based platforms
Week 2: Selection of YouTube videos and interface features for study
Week 3: User observation and data collection
Week 4: Data analysis and interpretation
Week 5: Report writing and final submission
Expected Outcomes
The expected outcomes of this project include a clear evaluation of how HCI principles are
implemented in YouTube’s video interface, identification of key usability and interaction
challenges, and practical recommendations for improving user experience and engagement on
video-sharing platforms.
Conclusion
This project is significant because it applies Human–Computer Interaction concepts to a real-
world and widely used computing platform, aligning with best practices in user-centred design
(Norman, 2013). By analysing YouTube videos and their interface, the study will contribute to a
better understanding of how design choices affect user interaction and engagement, especially
in educational and informational contexts.
References
Creswell, J.W. (2014) Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods
Approaches. 4th edn. Thousand Oaks, CA: SAGE.
Khan, S. (2017) The One World Schoolhouse: Education Reimagined. London: Hodder &
Stoughton.
Nielsen, J. (1994) Usability Engineering. San Diego, CA: Academic Press.
Norman, D.A. (2013) The Design of Everyday Things. Revised and expanded edn. New York:
Basic Books.
Preece, J., Rogers, Y. and Sharp, H. (2019) Interaction Design: Beyond Human–Computer
Interaction. 5th edn. Chichester: Wiley.
Statista (2023) YouTube: Number of monthly active users worldwide. Available at: Statista
database.