Computer-Related Attribution Styles: Typology and Data Collection Methods

Attribution, i.e. the systematic ascription of causes to effects in situations of failure or success, has so far received little attention in HCI research. Based on a preliminary typology developed in pilot work, we conducted four empirical studies with a total of N = 146 participants using different methods for data collection, including laboratory studies, a mobile diary study, and an online survey. Results show that several typical styles of attributing computer-related failure or success could be identified. Therefore, we propose a typology of six main attribution styles, which are depicted as personas to make them applicable for HCI practice. Methodical issues in computer-related attribution research and implication for research and practice are discussed.

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