Introduction to Human Computer Interaction (HCI)
Definition of HCI
- HCI is the study of how users interact with the computer technology.
Why HCI is important?
It provides a clear focus on methods of task analysis
can evaluate design methods for their efficiency and effectiveness.
Interactive System (IS)
Any technological system which requires interaction with users.
Anything electronic that requires some sort of input from the user and gives some sort of
output is considered to be an interactive system.
Who designs interactive systems (IS)?
- by computer programmers and software engineers.
Useful
- that the user can actually achieve the task they want to.
Usable
- allow the users to achieve the task they want to easily and enjoyably.
Accessibility
- A system can only be said to be accessible if the full range of our intended users can
actually access it.
Making IS feel natural for users.
Natural Computing
study of how people process and store information, manipulate symbols, etc.
enables us to consider systematically the requirements of users of new interactive
systems.
can build systems that are more useful, usable and accessible.
Research and application area, natural computing draws from;
cognitive science
cognitive psychology
human computer interaction
Interaction design
sociology and
anthropology
Three linked aspects of natural computing:
1. The user perspective
- center of the process.
2. The designer’s perspective
- Need to understand the Intended users
3. The sustainability perspective
- artefacts that support our strengths and weaknesses,
User-centered system design (UCSD)
- A type of user interface design and a process in which the needs, wants, and limitations
of end users of a product
UCSD process
Prototyping and the evaluation of alternative designs
- reviewing them through prototype and storyboards with other members of the team
Understanding users
-We need to understand better the people who use the systems we design and build.
Core concepts
User model
- from a simple list of stated preferences right up to a full psychological profile
Universal access
- accessible anytime, anywhere and to anyone
Design for all
- similar to 'universal access', but also promotes the notion of careful design and design
standards
Inclusive design
- designers can calculate the numbers of users who are excluded by specific design
features.
Task models
- must identify the key features of the task to be achieved
Technological platform
In the earlier days of system design the technology placed severe restrictions These days
technological options are less restrictive
Interactive design
- refers to both the process and the results of design.
User Interface
Types of interfaces
Command Line Interface (CLI)
- Text based
- User types commands and computer carries out when enter key Pressed.
Example:
Windows Command Promp
Advantages
Good for expert users
Uses few resources
Disadvantages
Requires user to learn commands
bad for novice users
Hidden features
Graphical User Interface (GUI)
- Combines pictures & text
- Accepts input via devices such as keyboards & mouse
- Offers graphical icons and visual indicators
Example:
Microsoft Windows
Advantages
Intuitive and easy to navigate (sounds, pictures incorporated)
Good for novice users
Disadvantages
Resource hungry – can be slow on old machines
Hidden commands must be found using help
Menu Driven Interfaces (MDI)
- Uses menus to communicate with user
Advantages
No need to learn complex commands
Easier for novice user to learn than CLI
Ideal if there are limited options
Disadvantages
User interface limited by screen space
Can frustrate expert user
Does not have visual elements of GUI
Natural Language Interface (NLI)
- Verbal commands given to computer
Advantages
Very easy for novice users
Quick
Hands free (can be used by people with disabilities)
Disadvantages
Can be unreliable
Can “interpret” incorrectly (dialect)
Bad Interfaces
Encumbering
Confusing
Slow
Trust (ex. windows crashing)
What makes it hard?
Varies by culture
Multiple platforms
Variety of users
