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HCI_Unit1_LongAnswers_Detailed

The document discusses key concepts in Human-Computer Interaction, including the differences between Graphical User Interfaces (GUIs) and Web User Interfaces, the principles of user interface design, and the evolution of screen design from text-based interfaces to modern graphical systems. It highlights the importance of direct and indirect manipulation in user interactions and outlines the characteristics and benefits of graphical systems. Overall, the content emphasizes usability, accessibility, and the advancements in interface design over time.

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2 views2 pages

HCI_Unit1_LongAnswers_Detailed

The document discusses key concepts in Human-Computer Interaction, including the differences between Graphical User Interfaces (GUIs) and Web User Interfaces, the principles of user interface design, and the evolution of screen design from text-based interfaces to modern graphical systems. It highlights the importance of direct and indirect manipulation in user interactions and outlines the characteristics and benefits of graphical systems. Overall, the content emphasizes usability, accessibility, and the advancements in interface design over time.

Uploaded by

contact.aishwaryarao
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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HUMAN COMPUTER INTERACTION - ANSWER KEY

UNIT-I Long Answer Questions

Q: What are the differences between GUI and web user interface?

A: Graphical User Interfaces (GUIs) are typically software applications running on a local machine. They are built using

toolkits like Windows API, Java Swing, or Qt, and are platform-specific. GUIs offer high responsiveness, access to

system resources, and support for complex operations. In contrast, Web User Interfaces (Web UIs) are accessed via

web browsers, are platform-independent, and rely on web technologies such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. Web UIs

are easier to deploy and update across platforms but may be limited by browser capabilities and network performance.

GUIs offer more customization, while Web UIs offer better accessibility and remote access.

Q: Explain the concept of direct and indirect manipulation. What are the general principles of user interface

design?

A: Direct manipulation refers to the interaction style where users can directly interact with visible objects on the screen.

For example, dragging a file to a folder is a form of direct manipulation. It offers immediate feedback and a sense of

control. Indirect manipulation, on the other hand, involves intermediate steps such as entering commands in a terminal

or filling forms, where users do not directly act on objects.

The general principles of user interface design include:

1. Consistency: Interfaces should have consistent layout and behavior.

2. Feedback: The system should provide immediate and clear feedback for user actions.

3. Visibility: Important options should be easily discoverable.

4. Error Prevention and Recovery: Prevent errors and provide ways to recover.

5. User Control: Allow users to undo actions and feel in control.

6. Simplicity: The design should be simple and easy to understand.

7. Flexibility and Efficiency: Provide shortcuts for expert users.

Q: Explain the History of Screen Design?

A: The history of screen design began with text-based interfaces in the early days of computing, where users interacted

with computers using command-line interfaces (CLIs). These were difficult to use for non-technical users. With the

introduction of the graphical user interface (GUI) by Xerox PARC in the 1970s, and later popularized by Apple Macintosh

and Microsoft Windows, screen design evolved significantly. GUI introduced visual metaphors like windows, icons,

menus, and pointing devices (WIMP).


HUMAN COMPUTER INTERACTION - ANSWER KEY

Over time, screen design became more sophisticated with the inclusion of multimedia, color schemes, 3D elements, and

animations. Modern designs focus on usability, aesthetics, and responsiveness, with considerations for accessibility and

different screen sizes (e.g., desktops, tablets, smartphones). The emergence of mobile interfaces brought a new wave

of minimalistic and touch-friendly design paradigms.

Q: Give brief summary of Graphical systems?

A: Graphical systems are computer interfaces that allow users to interact using visual elements such as windows, icons,

menus, and pointing devices. These systems are built on the concept of WIMP (Windows, Icons, Menus, Pointer) and

provide a more intuitive and engaging user experience than text-based systems. They make use of elements like

buttons, sliders, toolbars, and graphics to facilitate interaction.

The characteristics of graphical systems include direct manipulation, high discoverability, feedback, and support for

multitasking. They also allow customization and visual hierarchy. Graphical systems are used in operating systems

(Windows, macOS, Linux), applications (MS Word, Photoshop), and embedded systems (ATMs, kiosks). The

advancement of graphical systems has significantly improved usability and broadened the user base of computing

systems.

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