This collection of articles addresses "the design of interactive products and services such as websites, household objects, smartphones, computer software, aircraft cockpits, you name it." The contents are available as web pages at no cost, and include graphics, HD videos, commentaries, cross-references, and links to external resources. Chapters are authored by academics and practitioners writing in their specific areas of expertise.
Type of Material:
Open Access Textbook
Recommended Uses:
- Academic courses addressing Human-Computer Interaction
- Practitioners whose work utilizes Human-Computer Interaction principles and techniques
This is better suited as reference material, to be used individually in a self-paced rhythm.
Technical Requirements:
- Web browser and Internet connection (online version)
- PDF reader (offline version)
- Videos require ability to play files in MP4 format.
Identify Major Learning Goals:
Broad coverage of topics in Human-Computer Interaction. Learning goal is to introduce the reader to technological and social aspects of HCI.
Target Student Population:
This is better suited for undergraduate and graduate students, and people related with graphic design, sociology, and software development.
Prerequisite Knowledge or Skills:
Presumes a background in computer science fundamentals.
Content Quality
Rating:
Strengths:
- Well written; good references; illuminating commentaries. - It presents well-explained introductory concepts to HCI topics. - Most of the concepts are illustrated with real-life examples, videos and images. - Text style is casual, thus is easy to read and engaging.
Concerns:
Use of term "encyclopedia" suggests it would be a comprehensive reference work; whereas this is actually just a collection of related articles.
Potential Effectiveness as a Teaching Tool
Rating:
Strengths:
- Mixture of textual, graphical, and audio-visual presentations of content
- Links to external references and additional resources
Concerns:
- It might need guidance from a teacher/instructor to make the most of the content.
- This is not a designed course, thus the content can only be used as reference material.
Ease of Use for Both Students and Faculty
Rating:
Strengths:
- Effective use of media - Adjustable display via browser controls - Some articles use engaging visuals
- Navigation of both, the online and offline versions is easy. - Structure of the document is well defined and designed.
Concerns:
Videos do not appear to be closed-captioned.
Other Issues and Comments:
Advertisements are embedded in the content.
Some errors at the copy-editing level.
Creative Commons:
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