Human-Computer Interaction (HCI)

Definition of HCI
 Human-Computer Interaction is a discipline focused on the design, evaluation, and
implementation of interactive computing systems for human use, along with the study of
phenomena surrounding them 1.
Information Age
 The defining characteristic of the Information Age is access to and control of information 2.
 Common negative sentiments towards computers include annoyance and frustration 3.
The Role of Computers
 Computers can evoke a range of emotions, often infuriating users 4.
 They can also have extreme consequences, such as causing harm 5.
Evolution of Digital Cameras
 The first-generation digital camera featured a rudimentary computer that allowed it to
automatically shut down after one minute of inactivity 6.
 The second-generation camera, Panasonic PalmCam, introduced an Off/Rec/Play switch,
enhancing functionality 7.
Usability and User Experience Goals
 Usability is defined by effectiveness, efficiency, safety, utility, learnability, and memorability 8.
 User experience goals include satisfaction, enjoyment, and motivation 9.
Software Quality in HCI
 Quality encompasses functionality, reliability, usability, efficiency, maintainability, and
portability 10.
 It is essential to consider both stated and implied needs to ensure a holistic understanding of user
requirements 11.
Challenges in HCI
 Poorly designed systems can lead to user frustration and annoyance 12.
 The "Bad Tool Effect" highlights the difficulties users face with complex systems 13.
Conclusion of HCI Principles
 HCI aims to produce usable and safe systems, ensuring that technology enhances user experience
rather than complicating it 14.
Types of Cognition
 Experiential Cognition: Involves direct interaction with the environment (act and react).
 Reflective Cognition: Involves deeper thinking, comparing, and decision-making.
 GOMS Model:
o Goals: User's objectives.
o Operations: Basic actions to achieve goals.
o Methods: Sub-groups of goals for planning.
o Selection Rules: Choosing between competing methods 15.
Human Input and Output Channels
 Inputs:
o Vision: Processed by the retina, which sends signals to the brain.
o Other Senses: Touch, smell, hearing, taste.
 Outputs:
o Limbs, fingers, vocal system.
 Limitations: Physical and perceptual limitations affect perception 16.
 Visual Perception
 Color:
o Hue: Determined by spectral wavelength (RGB).
o Intensity: Brightness of the color.
o Saturation: Amount of whiteness in the color.
 3D Vision: Understanding depth and spatial relationships 17.
Cognitive Processes
 Attention: Ability to focus on one thing at a time.
o Types:
 Focused Attention: Concentration on a specific task.
 Divided Attention: Managing multiple tasks 18.
 Memory Models:
o Sensory Memory: Short-term storage.
o Short-term Memory: Temporary holding.
o Long-term Memory: Permanent storage 19.
Human-Computer Interaction (HCI)
 Definition: HCI is concerned with the design, evaluation, and implementation of interactive
computing systems for human use .
 Goals of HCI:
o User experience: Satisfaction, happiness, and usability 20.
 Usability:
o Effectiveness: How well the system performs its intended function.
o Efficiency: Minimizing resource use.
o Safety: Protecting users from harm.
o Utility: Providing necessary functionality 21.
Software Quality
 Characteristics include functionality, reliability, usability, efficiency, maintainability, and
portability 22.
Design Principles
 Visibility: Important functions must be visible to users.
 Affordance: Properties of an object that indicate how it can be used.
 Constraints: Limitations on user interactions to reduce errors 23.
Interaction Styles
 WIMP Interface: Windows, Icons, Menus, Pointer.
 Command Line Interface: Text-based interaction.
 Natural Language Interface: User-friendly communication .
Challenges in Software Development
 Frequent changes from users and lack of understanding of requirements often lead to cost
overruns in software projects 24.
Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) Overview
Key Concepts
 Human-Computer Interaction (HCI): The study of how people interact with computers and to
design technologies that let humans interact with computers in novel ways.
Important Principles
 Usability: Refers to the ease of learning and using a system 25.
 Utility: Concerns the functionality of a system 26.
 Effectiveness: How well a system performs its intended tasks 27.
 Efficiency: The time it takes to complete tasks 28.
Quality in HCI
 Quality: Defined as the totality of characteristics that satisfy stated and implied needs 29.
 Implied Needs: User expectations that may not be explicitly stated 30.
Cognitive Psychology in HCI
 Cognition: Understanding human thought processes and how they relate to computer
interaction 31.
 Types of Cognition:
1. Experiential Cognition: Immediate reactions to stimuli.
2. Reflective Cognition: Involves deeper thinking and decision-making 32.
Design Principles
 Conceptual Model: A framework that describes how users understand the system 33.
 Visibility: Important functions must be visible to enhance usability 34.
 Feedback: Providing users with information about their actions 35.
Interaction Styles
 WIMP Interface: Windows, Icons, Menus, Pointer interface .
 Command Line Interface: Text-based input for commands .
Text Entry Devices
 Keyboards: Various types including alphabetic and chord keyboards .
 Speech Recognition: Effective in controlled environments with limited vocabulary .
Human Input and Output Channels
 Inputs: Vision, touch, and other senses 36.
 Outputs: Limbs, vocal systems, and visual displays 36.
Cognitive Processes
 Attention: The ability to focus on specific stimuli 37.
 Memory Models: Sensory, short-term, and long-term memory 38.
Problem Solving and Reasoning
 Types of Reasoning: Deductive, inductive, and abductive reasoning 39.
 Problem Solving: Involves finding solutions through various methods 40.
Stages of Goals
Stage
Sr# Action
Name
I want to
go
1. Goal
grocery
shopping
2. Plan Should I
drive to
the store
or take a
 bus
I think I
3. Specify will
drive
I will
follow
the
4. Perform
standard
route to
the store
I have
parked
5. Perceive
at the
store
I should
6. Interpret go inside
and shop
I have
7. Compare achieved
my goal
41
Conclusion This summary provides a structured overview of key concepts, principles, and
processes in Human-Computer Interaction, utilizing relevant excerpts for clarity and reference.