Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) is like a collaboration dance between humans and computers, where people engage with computers to get things done smoothly and efficiently. The main goal of HCI is to create computer systems that are not only useful and productive but also safe and easy to use.
Components of HCI
- Humans:
- They are the users of the system and also the ones managing the computer system.
- Computer:
- It’s like the helpful assistant that gets the job done, following the directions of the user.
- Work Environment:
- The interface acts as a bridge between the user and the computer, making the interaction seamless.
Interdisciplinary Nature of HCI
HCI involves a mix of different fields to make it work smoothly:
- Electronics Engineering: Focuses on computer hardware.
- Computer Science: Deals with computer software.
- Psychology: Understands human behavior, perception, and cognitive processing.
It also brings in evaluation techniques from experimental psychology to measure how well humans and computers work together.
Human Aspects in HCI
- Senses (Perception):
- How we see and interpret information.
- Memory (Cognition):
- How we remember and process information.
- Motor Control:
- How we physically interact with devices.
Technological Aspects
Technological Components
- Input Devices: Like keyboards and mice.
- Output Devices: Such as screens and speakers.
- Memory: Both temporary (RAM) and permanent storage.
- Processing: The speed of computer operations and network functionality.
Interaction Models
Different ways humans and computers can communicate:
- Single command-based interaction.
- Programming language-based interaction.
- Natural language-based interactions.
- Menu-based interaction.
- Icon-based interaction.
- Form-based interaction.
- Scheduling system-based interaction.
- Direct manipulation-based interaction.
- Graphics-based interaction.
Ergonomic Aspects
- Work Station Ergonomics:
- Ensuring the computer setup, including furniture, is comfortable and reduces health risks.
- Physical Work Environment Ergonomics:
- Making everything easily accessible and reducing physical strain.
- Interface/Cognitive Ergonomics:
- Standardizing interfaces, presenting information effectively, and minimizing cognitive load.
Usability Principles and Paradigms
Understanding how to evaluate and improve the user interface, focusing on principles like learnability and flexibility. In the web context, considering document structure, content, and layout for enhanced usability.