Lesson 1

Human-computer interaction (HCI) is a cross-disciplinary area (e.g., engineering, psychology, ergonomics, design) that deals with the theory, design, implementation, and evaluation of the ways that humans use and interact with computing devices.

Interaction – refers to an abstract model by which humans interact with the computing device for a given task.

Interface – is a choice of technical realization (hardware or software) of such a  given interaction model.

High usability – means the resulting interfaces are easy to use, efficient for the task, ensure safety, and lead to a correct completion of the task.

Aesthetic – concerned with beauty or the appreciation of beauty

Ergonomics - is the study of people's efficiency in their working environment.

Principles of HCI

1.       Know thy user – the interaction and interface should cater to the needs and capabilities of the target user of the system in a design. 

User-centered design

Universal usability

2.       Understand the task

Task – refers to the job to be accomplished by the user through the use of the interactive system.

3.       Reduce memory load

Humans are more efficient in carrying out tasks that require less memory burden, long or short term.

Light memory burden also leads to less erroneous behavior.

4.       Strive for consistency

Consistency applies to:

a.       Both within an application and across different applications

b.      Both the interaction model and interface implementation

5.       Remind users and refresh their memory

Feedback

Reaffirmation

6.       Prevent errors/reversal of action

7.       Naturalness

Naturalness – refers to a trait that is reflective of various operations in our everyday life.