Human Computer Interface-Introduction
Computers have changed the way tasks are automated and repetitive work is carried out with least human interference. So, it is imperative to understand, discuss, design and implement the interface between humans and computers. Human Computer Interface is the study to understand the human and computational capabilities and constraints.
Ever since the computers came into being, interaction by humans is primarily through keyboard and mouse. Specialized applications like digitization of hard copies and manuscripts, grabbing videos, digital images and other type of data require input devices like scanners and digital cameras. But with sophisticated application developers expecting Human Computer Interface more than merely selecting, clicking or moving elements on a computer screen. With advent of smart devices, interactions could not be limited by the limitations of hardware technologies.
HCI looks upon the feasibility using the visual and auditory capabilities of humans to create interfaces that are intuitive and natural. Vision and voice recognition is the major aspect to create Human Computer Interface.
Fields associated in Human Computer Interface
The following are the major fields of HCI,
- Vision recognition
- Audio recognition
- Gesture recognition
- Hand Tracking
- Character Recognition
- Emotions Recognition
- Motion tracking
HCI is a subfield of Computer Science since other sciences like Mechanical Engineering, Human Psychology, Ergonomics, Social Science, Cognitive Science and many other technology areas contribute equally in creating HCI systems.
Features of HCI
- HCI is the complex mix of technology and other sciences to make computers which can behave like humans.
- Human Computer Interface involves careful analysis of machine and human behavior to develop and implement methodologies to create HCI systems
- HCI applications are developed by breaking complex actions into simpler tasks. Such tasks are analyzed, verified, validated and calculated. Pattern recognition is the foundation of evaluation of the tasks.
- HCI definitely follows the well known and widely accepted design, implementation and evaluation cycle to create interactive systems with strict focus on its applicability and its user type.
- Just like any other standard computer based applications, HCI also begins with input and ends in generating desired output. In between input and output there are various stages of processing, classification, clustering and pattern recognition of images passed on as input.
So, in the upcoming chapters we will explore HCI right from its design to the user models. Keep track of a delightful reading experience.