Human-Computer Interaction

An overview of different issues concerning human-computer interaction (HCI).

This paper examines human-computer interaction (HCI), the study of how people and computing technologies interact. It looks at how a focus on the design of computer systems is one part of the field, with usefulness and ergonomics, as well as aesthetics of the “box” ,taken into account. It looks at how the issues in human computer interaction involve not only cognitive issues for the human part of the equation and technical issues for the computer portion, but social issues for the humans involved.

Outline
Background
Social and Contextual Aspects of HCI
Groups and Computer Interaction
Flow
Conclusion
“It may be, also, that “flow” is involved in these findings. “The theory of optimal flow has been proposed as a useful framework for studying the experience of individuals as they learn and use computers, and for identifying the factors that influence this experience (Ghani, 1991).”(Deshpande, 1994) The key characteristics of flow, which seem to be confirmed by the researchers above, are total concentration in the activity and the enjoyment one derives from it. (Deshpande, 1994) In the cases of the study of the students, especially, these factors might have come into play. Flow moments occur when “a person’s body or mind is stretched to its limits in a voluntary effort to accomplish something difficult or worthwhile. (Deshphande, 1994) Likewise, when one has a feeling of control over one’s environment which would have been the case after the students were instructed and counseled–flow is enhanced.