Lecture 1: Introduction to Human-Computer Interaction – Part I

Learning Goals:

 Understand the significance of Human-Computer Interaction (HCI)

 Discuss why HCI is important based on technological advancements over the
past forty years
 Describe a formal definition of HCI
 Overview of course contents

Introduction:

 Technology has advanced rapidly in the past thirty years.

 Computers are now embedded in many everyday objects: ATMs, cell phones,
remote controls, microwaves, etc.
 The early days of computing involved large, expensive, and complicated
machines used by specialists.
 Modern computers are smaller, cheaper, and more user-friendly.

Historical Context:

 In the 1950s, computers were hard to use, expensive, and required specialized
knowledge.
 Advancements like the silicon chip made computers cheaper and more
powerful.
 The development of personal computers in the 1970s allowed people from
various fields to use computers.

Impact of Computers:

 Computers are now powerful and perform many tasks.

 Their integration into our lives has both positive and negative effects.

Examples of Computer Integration:

1. Airplane Navigation: A navigation error in 1995 led to a fatal crash.
2. Cameras: Modern digital cameras are complex and can be frustrating to use
compared to older, simpler models.
3. Alarm Clocks: New alarm clocks have complex features that can be confusing
and unreliable.
4. Cars: High-tech cars, like the Porsche Boxster, have computers that can cause
issues, like shutting down due to low fuel.
5. Warships: The USS Yorktown incident showed how a computer error can
leave a ship stranded.

Conclusion:

 Computers are essential in modern life but can be frustrating and sometimes
dangerous.
 We need to rethink and improve how humans and machines interact.
 HCI aims to bridge the gap between humans and machines.

Definition of HCI: "Human-Computer Interaction is a discipline concerned

with the design, evaluation, and implementation of interactive computing
systems for human use and with the study of major phenomena surrounding
them." - ACM/IEEE
 Lecture 2: Introduction to Human-Computer Interaction – Part II

Learning Goals

This lecture aims to help you:

 Understand the importance of HCI, especially the negative impacts of

computer technology on humans and why these occur.
 Understand the nature of humans and computers.
 Grasp the paradox of the computing phenomena.
 Differentiate between the focus of Software Engineering (SE) and Human-
Computer Interaction (HCI).

Definition of HCI

Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) is the study of designing, evaluating, and

implementing interactive computing systems for human use, and
understanding the major phenomena around them (ACM/IEEE).

Reasons for Negative Aspects

 Airplane Incident: Pilots relied on a navigation aid that was incorrect for their
landing, which led to a fatal crash. The issue was not just "human error" but a
failure of the flight computer to warn the pilot about the incorrect navigation
fix.
 Joke in Computer Industry: A joke highlights that computers can give
precise facts that are unhelpful, emphasizing how computers can guide us
incorrectly without providing necessary context.

I-Drive Car Device

 BMW’s iDrive: Intended for simplicity, but often causes confusion. It uses a
multifunction knob to control various car functions, but requires the driver to
look at a screen, which can be dangerous. The system's complexity can distract
drivers, potentially leading to accidents.

Feature Shock
 Digital devices often have more features than manual counterparts, making
them complicated. High-tech companies add features to improve products,
but sometimes these make the products harder to use.

Computer + Bank Example

 ATM Experience: ATMs often frustrate users by rejecting transactions for

minor errors, requiring repeated attempts to complete a task. This mirrors the
issue with Flight 965, where the computer system’s poor design contributed to
a serious problem.

Human vs. Computer

 Humans: Complex, intelligent, emotional, and prone to making mistakes.

 Computers: Created by humans, they are fast, tireless, emotionless, and follow
commands precisely without mistakes. However, they lack the ability to think
independently.

Software Apartheid

 Definition: Segregation in software interaction, creating a divide between

those who are computer literate and those who are not.
 Impact: Programmers often live in tech-centric environments, disconnecting
from the struggles of average users. This gap results in software that is difficult
for many people to use, reinforcing social and economic divides.

Software Engineering and HCI

 Software Engineers: Focus on system-centered approaches, dealing well with

data, architecture, procedures, and managerial issues.
 HCI Specialists: User-centered, focusing on understanding user characteristics
and tasks. They test designs with real users, improving the final product
through formal evaluation techniques.

This lecture highlights the importance of considering human factors in

technology design to avoid negative impacts and improve user experience.
 Lecture 3: Introduction to Human-Computer Interaction – Part III

Learning Goals

 Understand the impact of poorly designed tools.

 Explain why Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) is crucial, considering
technological development over the past 40 years.
 Recognize the needs of the new economy era.

Effect of Bad Tools

 Bad in-flight entertainment systems frustrate flight attendants, leading to

operational inefficiencies and morale issues.
 Inefficient systems can force employees to take drastic measures, such as
shutting down services to avoid use.

An Industry in Denial

 Despite technological advancements, many computerized tools remain

difficult and confusing to use.
 The high-tech industry often fails to recognize this issue, believing that new
technology alone will solve usability problems.
 The real problem lies in the development culture and processes, not just in the
technology itself.

Techno-Rage

 Incidents of computer-induced frustration and rage are common, indicating a

widespread problem with software usability.
 Surveys show that many people physically and verbally abuse their computers
out of frustration.
 Such stress can lead to significant productivity losses and emotional strain.

Success Criteria in the New Economy

 Future professionals must be both business-savvy and technologically adept.
 Information processing is crucial for business success, and mastering high-
tech tools is essential.
 Poorly designed digital products can lead to substantial financial losses and
missed opportunities.
 A good user experience is critical for the success of e-commerce and other
digital platforms.

Computer + Information

 Accessibility issues, such as those faced during the 2000 Sydney Olympics,
highlight the importance of inclusive design.
 Legal requirements in many regions mandate accessible web design, but
compliance is often neglected.
 Ensuring accessibility can prevent legal issues and enhance user satisfaction.

References

1. Independent Living
2. CIO Comment

Lecture 3: Introduction to Human-Computer Interaction – Part III

Learning Goals

After this lecture, you will be able to:

 Discuss the impact of poorly designed tools.

 Explain the importance of Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) in relation to
technological developments over the past 40 years.
 Describe the needs of the new economy era.

Effect of Bad Tools

Computers are now ubiquitous, even in areas like airplane passenger cabins
where in-flight entertainment (IFE) systems are prevalent. These systems can
be frustratingly difficult to use, impacting employee morale and customer
satisfaction. For instance, complex cash-collection linked IFE systems forced
flight attendants into tedious routines, leading them to disable the system out
of frustration. This not only wasted money but also alienated frequent flyers,
despite the software itself being technically flawless.

An Industry in Denial

The tech industry is filled with advanced yet difficult-to-use devices. Many
engineers believe they have optimized ease of use, but the real issue lies in the
cultural and training deficiencies of those creating these products. The
engineering mindset often prioritizes technical features over user-friendly
design, resulting in products that are challenging for everyday users.

Techno-Rage

Frustration with technology has led to widespread "techno-rage," as

evidenced by viral videos and surveys showing users physically attacking their
computers. This phenomenon indicates a significant issue with user
experience, highlighting the need for more user-friendly designs to prevent
productivity loss and stress.

Success Criteria in the New Economy

In the new economy, success hinges on being either a business-savvy

technologist or a technology-savvy businessperson. Mastering high
technology is crucial for business survival. Efficient information processing and
user-friendly digital tools are essential for maintaining a competitive edge, as
poor user experience can lead to substantial financial losses and missed
opportunities.

Computer + Information

The 2000 Sydney Olympics highlighted the importance of accessible digital

design when a lawsuit was filed for failing to provide accessible information to
a blind user. Ensuring website accessibility not only avoids legal issues but also
enhances user experience for all, demonstrating the critical need for inclusive
design in the digital age.

By applying simple accessibility techniques, organizations can avoid costly

mistakes and ensure their digital products are usable by everyone.