HCI Lesson 2 - Components of Human-Computer Interaction (HCI).pdf
At the end of the lesson, students will be able to: understand the components of human-computer interaction, explain different types of interaction styles, evaluate the evolving scope of HCI. Interface in HCI An interface is the point of contact and communication between a human user and a computer system. It consists of the hardware and software elements that enable a user to input commands or data, receive outputs, and interact with the system to accomplish their goals. Types of Interfaces in HCI Graphical User Interfaces (GUIs): These are the most common today, featuring visual elements like windows, icons, menus, and pointers (WIMP). They are intuitive and generally easier to learn. Command-Line Interfaces (CLIs): Primarily text-based. Users give commands through typed instructions. While less intuitive initially, they can be powerful for experienced users. Voice User Interfaces (VUIs): Enable interaction via spoken commands and may offer speech-based output. Think of systems like Siri or Alexa. Natural User Interfaces (NUIs): Aim to create more seamless interaction through gestures, touch, or even body movement recognition (e.g., some gaming systems). Tangible User Interfaces (TUIs): Involve physical objects or environments as a way to control or manipulate digital information. Key Roles of an Interface in HCI Input: Allows users to provide commands, data, or instructions to the system (keyboard, mouse, microphone, touchscreens, etc.). Output: How the system presents information back to the user (monitors, speakers, visual feedback, haptic responses, etc.). Facilitation: Interfaces bridge the gap between how humans think and how computers operate, aiding in task completion. Good HCI Interface Design Intuitive: Easy to understand and use, even for novice users. Efficient: Allows users to accomplish tasks quickly with minimal errors. Responsive: Provides timely feedback to user actions. Aesthetic: Visually pleasing and aligns with the overall system design. Context in HCI Context refers to the circumstances or environment within which an interaction between a user and a computer system takes place. It encompasses a wide range of factors that can influence how a user experiences and interacts with technology. Key Types of Context in HCI Physical Context: Location (home, office, outdoors) Ambient conditions (noise, lighting, temperature) Devices being used (desktop, smartphone, wearable tech) Social Context: Presence of others (working solo or collaboratively) Social roles and relationships (e.g., teacher and student) Cultural norms Task Context: The user's goals and intentions The steps involved in completing a task The tools or resources available Temporal Context: Time of day Duration of interaction Interruptions or distractions Informational Context: Data the user is working with Previous interactions with the system
