Human-Computer Interaction Basics

Questions and Answers

What is the primary function of Random Access Memory (RAM)?

To store permanent operating system files

To provide firmware updates and instructions

To retain data even when the computer is turned off

To hold temporary data for currently running programs (correct)

Which of the following accurately describes Read-Only Memory (ROM)?

It retains its contents even without power and stores firmware (correct)

It is used primarily for temporary data storage

It can be easily overwritten with new data

It is volatile and loses data when the computer is powered off

What distinguishes a Solid-State Drive (SSD) from a Hard Disk Drive (HDD)?

SSDs use flash memory for persistent data storage (correct)

SSDs use mechanical parts to store data

SSDs typically have slower data access times compared to HDDs

HDDs store data using integrated circuit assemblies

What is a characteristic of optical drives?

They utilize lasers to read data on optical discs Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best describes secondary memory?

It is typically non-volatile storage that retains data long-term Signup and view all the answers

Which interface is primarily characterized by the use of Windows, Icons, Mice, and Pointer?

WIMP Interface Signup and view all the answers

What functionality does a spreadsheet offer that maintains data integrity?

Consistency maintenance of values Signup and view all the answers

Which interface is commonly used in ATMs to minimize typing requirements?

Point and Click Interface Signup and view all the answers

What does the concept of light and occlusion contribute to in three-dimensional interfaces?

Depth perception and distance effects Signup and view all the answers

Which application was the first recognized spreadsheet software?

VisiCalc Signup and view all the answers

Who first created the Muller-Lyer illusion?

Franz Carl Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of sensory memory?

Act as a buffer for stimuli received through the senses Signup and view all the answers

Which type of memory is often referred to as 'working memory'?

Short-term Memory Signup and view all the answers

What kind of memory exists for visual stimuli?

Iconic Memory Signup and view all the answers

How long can information be stored in short-term memory?

Typically around 20-30 seconds Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following does NOT describe long-term memory?

Information is stored fleetingly Signup and view all the answers

Which is NOT a type of sensory memory?

Procedural Memory Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of rehearsal in memory?

To transfer information to long-term memory Signup and view all the answers

Which interface type is particularly suitable for expert users and involves direct expressions of instructions?

Command Line Interface Signup and view all the answers

What major development in human-computer interaction occurred in the 1990s?

Cloud Computing Signup and view all the answers

Which interface relies heavily on recognition rather than recall and features hierarchically grouped options?

Menu Interface Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant problem associated with Natural Language Interfaces?

Ambiguity and vagueness Signup and view all the answers

What type of interface guides users through a series of questions and is often suited for novices?

Query Interface Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary source of information for the average person?

Vision Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a characteristic feature of a Command Line Interface?

Direct access to system functionality Signup and view all the answers

Which interface is used primarily for data entry or retrieval and resembles a paper form?

Form-Fills Interface Signup and view all the answers

Which sense is often underestimated in importance compared to vision?

Hearing Signup and view all the answers

What does the human information processing system refer to?

Cognition Signup and view all the answers

What is necessary to effectively use query languages like SQL in Query Interfaces?

Knowledge of database structure Signup and view all the answers

What optical illusion demonstrates that the human mind judges an object's size based on its background?

Ponzo illusion Signup and view all the answers

What was the main focus of the section discussing human input-output channels?

The effects of movement on interaction Signup and view all the answers

Which of these senses is not mentioned as a primary input in the context of human-computer interaction?

Smell Signup and view all the answers

Who first demonstrated the Ponzo illusion?

Mario Ponzo Signup and view all the answers

What cognitive aspect is closely associated with the limitations in human information processing?

Complexity of tasks Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Human-Computer Interaction (HCI)

HCI involves an interactive process where user input becomes computer output and vice versa.
Human cognition limits the ability to process information, influencing interaction design.
Human Information Processing is often termed cognition, which is foundational in HCI frameworks.

Input-Output Channels

Vision is the primary source of information for humans but has physical and perceptual limitations.
Hearing, often considered secondary, significantly contributes to our interaction with technology.
Touch or haptic perception is a critical input channel that affects user interaction with computers.
Movement and motor control influence how users interact with technology.

Optical Illusions

Ponzo Illusion: Demonstrated by Mario Ponzo, shows that background context affects size perception. Two identical lines across converging lines appear different in size.
Muller-Lyer Illusion: Created by Franz Carl Muller-Lyer, where identical lines appear unequal due to depth cues provided by arrow-like fins at line ends.

Human Memory Types

Sensory Memory: Buffers for initial stimuli from the senses; includes iconic, echoic, and haptic memory.
Short-term Memory (Working Memory): Temporary storage for information retrieval, functioning as a scratch pad for rapid recall.
Long-term Memory: Permanent storage for knowledge, actions, and experiences; it encompasses factual, procedural, and experiential knowledge.

Computer Memory Types

Primary Memory: Composed of RAM, providing short-term data storage for active processes.
ROM (Read-Only Memory): Stores permanent data like firmware; non-volatile and retains information post shutdown.
HDD (Hard Disk Drive): Magnetic storage for data within the computer.
SSD (Solid-State Drive): Uses flash memory for persistent data storage.

Interaction Models

Help clarify actions between users and systems by translating user intentions into system responses.
Interaction paradigms evolved from batch processing in the 1950s to contemporary models involving human-robot interaction.

Types of User Interfaces

Command Line Interface: Direct user instructions via keystrokes, suitable for experts and repetitive tasks.
Menu Interface: Offers options on-screen, facilitating ease of use through recognition rather than recall.
Natural Language Interface: Employs speech recognition or typed inputs but may face challenges with comprehension.
Query Interface: Guides users through Q&A interactions; often seen in simpler information systems.
Form-Fill Interface: Simplifies data entry via structured forms, requiring good design for usability.
Spreadsheet Interface: Evolved from early tools like VisiCalc to modern applications like MS Excel, enabling complex data manipulation.
WIMP Interface: Predominant interface style based on Windows, Icons, Mice, and Pointer, common in desktop environments.
Point and Click Interface: Minimal typing, used in multimedia frameworks and ATMs for intuitive navigation.
Three-Dimensional Interfaces: Utilize virtual reality and 3D workspaces to provide depth and an immersive user experience.

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Description

This quiz explores the fundamental concepts of human-computer interaction, focusing on how users and computers exchange information. It delves into the cognitive limitations of humans and the implications for effective technological design.