HCI/UI/UX Lecture Notes

A set of vocabulary flashcards based on HCI, UI, UX principles.

Human-Computer Interaction (HCI)

The study of how people interact with computers and to design technologies that let humans interact with computers in novel ways.

User Interface (UI)

The space where interactions between humans and machines occur, focusing on the design of interfaces that are easy to use.

User Experience (UX)

A person's emotions and attitudes about using a particular product, system or service.

Input/Output (I/O)

Mechanisms that allow users to interact with a system by providing input and receiving output.

Navigation

The process by which users move through an interface to give instructions to the system.

6 Principles for UI Design

1. Content, 2. Layout, 3. Aesthetics, 4. Awareness, 5. Minimal User Effort, 6. User Experience.

Content Awareness

The principle ensuring the user is informed of relevant information without unnecessary effort.

Aesthetics

The visual aspect of an interface that balances form and function, aiming for an inviting and functional design.

Consistency in Design

A design approach that helps users predict how an interface will behave based on uniformity in elements and actions.

Progressive Disclosure

A technique to reduce cognitive load by gradually revealing more complex features as needed.

Minimal User Effort

A design principle suggesting that interfaces should minimize the number of actions a user has to perform to achieve their goals.

F-shaped Layout

A common web layout pattern where the user’s eye tracks in a pattern resembling the letter 'F'.

User Control

The principle that allows users to have control over how their interactions with an interface occur, fostering a sense of empowerment.

Feedback

The communication mechanism that provides users with information about their actions, often through visual or auditory cues.

Emotional Design

Creating products with aesthetic elements that evoke positive emotions, enhancing user experience.