KCA UNIVERSITY

SCHOOL OF TECHNOLOGY

Department of Information technology

DIT 406: HUMAN COMPUTER INTERACTION

Additional Instructional Materials for Human

Computer Interaction

Copy 1
@MAY - AUG 2024

BY: MR. KEVIN NJAGI (LECTURER - KCA UNIVERSITY) @ MAY - AUG 2024 1
 CHAPTER ONE;

HUMAN COMPUTER INTERACTION

1.1 WHAT IS HUMAN COMPUTER INTERACTION - HCI ?

 Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) is a multidisciplinary field that focuses on the

design, evaluation, and implementation of interactive computing systems and the study of
how humans interact with these systems. It involves the intersection of computer science,
psychology, design, and other related disciplines.
 HCI is concerned with creating user-friendly and efficient computer interfaces that enable
effective communication and interaction between humans and machines. It emphasizes the
design and development of interfaces that are intuitive, easy to use, and enhance the
overall user experience.
 The goal of HCI is to understand the capabilities and limitations of users and to design
interactive systems that accommodate their needs, preferences, and abilities. It involves
studying human behavior, cognitive processes, perception, and physical interactions to
inform the design and improvement of computer interfaces.
 HCI encompasses a range of aspects, including user interface design, usability testing,
user experience (UX) design, interaction design, information architecture, accessibility,
and human factors engineering. It considers factors such as aesthetics, functionality,
efficiency, learnability, and satisfaction to create interfaces that meet user requirements
and goals.
 The field of HCI has expanded beyond traditional desktop and web interfaces to include
various technologies such as mobile devices, wearable devices, virtual reality (VR) and
augmented reality (AR) systems, smart appliances, and other emerging platforms. HCI
professionals strive to create seamless and natural interactions between humans and
computers across these diverse contexts.
 Overall, HCI aims to improve the usability, effectiveness, and overall quality of
interactive systems by placing the human user at the center of the design process and
considering their needs, abilities, and preferences throughout the development lifecycle.

BY: MR. KEVIN NJAGI (LECTURER - KCA UNIVERSITY) @ MAY - AUG 2024 2
1.2 COMPONENTS OF HUMAN COMPUTER INTERACTION

Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) involves multiple components that contribute to the design
and understanding of the interaction between humans and computer systems. The key
components of HCI include:

1. User: The user is a central component in HCI. It refers to the individuals or groups who
interact with the computer system or interface. Users have various characteristics,
including knowledge, skills, preferences, and goals, which influence their interactions
and experiences.
2. Computer System: The computer system encompasses the hardware and software
components with which the user interacts. This includes input devices (e.g., keyboard,
mouse, touch screen), output devices (e.g., monitor, speakers), processing units, memory,
and the software applications or interfaces that facilitate user interaction.
3. Interface: The interface serves as the medium for interaction between the user and the
computer system. It includes the visual, auditory, and tactile elements that enable users to
input commands, receive feedback, and access information or functionality. The interface
can be graphical, textual, or based on other modalities such as speech or gestures.
4. Interaction Techniques: Interaction techniques refer to the methods or gestures through
which users interact with the computer system. This includes actions like clicking,
dragging, typing, voice commands, gestures, and touch interactions. Interaction
techniques can vary depending on the input devices and the capabilities of the computer
system.
5. Usability: Usability focuses on how effectively and efficiently users can accomplish their
goals with a system. It involves aspects such as ease of use, learnability, efficiency, error
prevention, and user satisfaction. Usability is a critical component of HCI, aiming to
enhance the overall user experience and maximize the effectiveness of the interaction.
6. User Experience (UX): User experience encompasses the overall impression,
perceptions, and emotions a user has during and after interacting with a computer system.
It involves factors such as the usability, aesthetics, utility, satisfaction, and enjoyment
derived from the interaction. UX considers the holistic experience and the user's
subjective perspective.

BY: MR. KEVIN NJAGI (LECTURER - KCA UNIVERSITY) @ MAY - AUG 2024 3
 7. Design Principles and Guidelines: Design principles and guidelines provide a set of best
practices and recommendations for designing user-friendly and effective interfaces.
These principles consider factors such as consistency, simplicity, feedback, affordance,
information architecture, and accessibility. Design principles and guidelines help guide
the design process to create interfaces that meet user needs and expectations.
8. Evaluation Methods: Evaluation methods in HCI involve techniques and approaches to
assess the usability, effectiveness, and user experience of a computer system or interface.
This includes methods such as usability testing, heuristic evaluation, user surveys,
interviews, and observation. Evaluation methods help identify strengths, weaknesses, and
areas for improvement in the interaction design.

NB: By considering and integrating these components, HCI practitioners can design and evaluate
computer systems that facilitate intuitive and effective interactions between humans and
technology, resulting in enhanced usability, user satisfaction, and overall user experience.

1.3 EXAMPLES OF HUMAN COMPUTER INTERACTION

There are numerous examples of Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) that we encounter in our
daily lives. Here are some common examples:

1. Smartphones: Interacting with smartphones involves a range of HCI techniques, such as

touchscreens, gestures, virtual keyboards, voice commands, and facial recognition. Users
can navigate through apps, send messages, make phone calls, and access various
functionalities through intuitive interactions.
2. Websites and Web Applications: Browsing the internet and using web applications
involve HCI through graphical user interfaces (GUIs). Users interact with menus,
buttons, forms, and hyperlinks to navigate between web pages, search for information,
submit forms, and interact with online services.
3. Social Media Platforms: Interacting with social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter,
and Instagram involves HCI techniques such as scrolling, liking, commenting, sharing,
and uploading content. Users can engage with posts, communicate with others, and
customize their profiles through intuitive interactions.

BY: MR. KEVIN NJAGI (LECTURER - KCA UNIVERSITY) @ MAY - AUG 2024 4
 4. ATMs (Automated Teller Machines): ATMs provide HCI interfaces that enable users
to perform banking transactions. Users interact with physical buttons or touchscreens to
enter PINs, select transaction types, withdraw cash, check balances, and perform other
banking operations.
5. Video Games: Video games involve immersive HCI experiences where users interact
with virtual environments and characters. Players use controllers, keyboards, or motion
sensors to navigate, perform actions, and engage in gameplay through various interaction
techniques.
6. Smart Home Devices: Interacting with smart home devices like voice assistants (e.g.,
Amazon Echo, Google Home) and smart thermostats involves HCI techniques like voice
commands, touch interfaces, and mobile apps. Users can control devices, adjust settings,
and access information using natural language or touch interactions.
7. E-commerce Websites and Online Shopping: Interacting with e-commerce websites
and online shopping platforms involves HCI techniques such as search interfaces, product
listings, shopping carts, and secure payment processes. Users can search for products,
view details, add items to the cart, and complete purchases through intuitive interactions.
8. Public Kiosks: Public kiosks found in airports, malls, or information centers provide HCI
interfaces for users to access information or services. Users interact through touchscreens
or physical buttons to obtain directions, check flight information, purchase tickets, or find
local information.
9. Wearable Devices: Interacting with wearable devices like smartwatches, fitness trackers,
or augmented reality glasses involves HCI techniques such as touchscreens, gestures,
voice commands, and motion tracking. Users can access notifications, track fitness data,
interact with apps, and receive information directly from the wearable device.
10. Car Infotainment Systems: Interacting with car infotainment systems involves HCI
interfaces integrated into the dashboard. Users can control audio, navigation, climate
settings, and access other features through touchscreens, physical buttons, voice
commands, or steering wheel controls.

NB: These examples illustrate how HCI is present in various aspects of our daily lives, providing
intuitive and user-friendly interactions with computer systems and digital technology.

BY: MR. KEVIN NJAGI (LECTURER - KCA UNIVERSITY) @ MAY - AUG 2024 5
1.4 GOALS OF HUMAN COMPUTER INTERACTION

The goals of Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) can be broadly categorized into several key
areas:

1. Usability: One of the primary goals of HCI is to design and develop computer interfaces
that are highly usable. Usability refers to the ease of use and effectiveness of an interface
in enabling users to accomplish their tasks efficiently and effectively. HCI aims to create
interfaces that are intuitive, learnable, and require minimal cognitive effort from the
users.
2. User Experience (UX): HCI focuses on creating positive user experiences by
considering the emotional, cognitive, and sensory aspects of interaction. It involves
understanding and addressing users' needs, goals, and expectations, and designing
interfaces that are engaging, enjoyable, and satisfying to use.
3. Accessibility: HCI aims to make technology accessible to all individuals, including those
with disabilities or impairments. It involves designing interfaces that accommodate
various user capabilities and provide equal access to information and functionality.
Accessibility considerations include visual, auditory, motor, and cognitive impairments.
4. Efficiency and Productivity: HCI strives to enhance the efficiency and productivity of
users when interacting with computer systems. This involves designing interfaces that
minimize the time and effort required to perform tasks, support efficient information
retrieval and navigation, and provide appropriate feedback and assistance.
5. Safety and Reliability: HCI aims to ensure the safety and reliability of interactive
systems. It involves designing interfaces that minimize the potential for errors and
accidents, provide clear and understandable feedback, and support error prevention and
recovery mechanisms.
6. Adaptability and Flexibility: HCI considers the need for interfaces that can adapt to
individual users, contexts, and tasks. It involves designing interfaces that can be
personalized and customized to accommodate user preferences, support different
interaction styles, and adapt to changing user needs and requirements.

BY: MR. KEVIN NJAGI (LECTURER - KCA UNIVERSITY) @ MAY - AUG 2024 6
 7. Ethical Considerations: HCI addresses the ethical implications of technology design and
use. It involves considering issues such as privacy, security, transparency, and social
impact, and designing interfaces that respect user autonomy, privacy, and well-being.
8. Innovation and Future Technologies: HCI explores and embraces new technologies
and interaction paradigms, such as augmented reality, virtual reality, natural language
processing, gesture-based interfaces, and wearable devices. It aims to leverage these
technologies to create novel and transformative user experiences.

NB: These goals of HCI collectively contribute to creating effective, efficient, and enjoyable
interactions between humans and computers, ultimately enhancing the usability, user experience,
and overall quality of interactive systems.

1.5 ADVANTAGES OF HUMAN COMPUTER INTERACTION

Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) offers several advantages that enhance the usability,
effectiveness, and overall user experience when interacting with computer systems. Some key
advantages of HCI include:

1. Improved Usability: HCI focuses on creating interfaces that are user-friendly, intuitive,
and easy to learn. By considering user needs, mental models, and interaction patterns,
HCI ensures that interfaces are designed with a focus on usability, making it easier and
more efficient for users to accomplish tasks and achieve their goals.
2. Enhanced User Experience: HCI aims to create positive user experiences by
considering the emotional, cognitive, and sensory aspects of interaction. By designing
interfaces that are engaging, visually appealing, and provide feedback and guidance, HCI
contributes to an overall enjoyable and satisfying user experience.
3. Increased Productivity and Efficiency: Usable interfaces enable users to perform tasks
more quickly and effectively. HCI designs streamline workflows, simplify complex
processes, and reduce cognitive load, allowing users to accomplish tasks more efficiently.
This leads to increased productivity and time savings.
4. Error Reduction and Error Recovery: HCI focuses on preventing user errors and
providing effective error handling mechanisms. Through clear and informative feedback,

BY: MR. KEVIN NJAGI (LECTURER - KCA UNIVERSITY) @ MAY - AUG 2024 7
 validation checks, and error prevention strategies, HCI minimizes the occurrence of
mistakes. Additionally, HCI incorporates error recovery mechanisms, such as undo/redo
functionalities, to help users recover from errors when they do occur.
5. Accessibility and Inclusivity: HCI considers the diverse needs and abilities of users,
including those with disabilities or impairments. Usable interfaces are designed to be
accessible, providing equal access to information and functionality for all users. HCI
aims to eliminate barriers and ensure inclusivity, promoting equal participation and
engagement.
6. User-Centered Design: HCI places the user at the center of the design process. By
involving users in the design and evaluation stages, HCI ensures that interfaces are
tailored to their needs, preferences, and goals. This user-centered approach increases user
satisfaction, engagement, and acceptance of technology.
7. Innovation and Adaptability: HCI embraces new technologies, interaction paradigms,
and emerging platforms. By exploring innovative approaches and considering user
feedback, HCI drives the development of novel interfaces that push the boundaries of
interaction design. HCI also emphasizes adaptability, designing interfaces that can
accommodate individual user preferences and adapt to changing contexts.
8. Ethical Considerations: HCI incorporates ethical considerations into interface design. It
addresses privacy concerns, security issues, transparency, and social impact, ensuring that
interfaces respect user autonomy, privacy, and well-being. HCI strives to design
interfaces that align with ethical principles and promote responsible use of technology.

NB: Overall, the advantages of HCI contribute to the creation of user-friendly, efficient, and
enjoyable interactions between humans and computers. By prioritizing usability and considering
user needs, HCI enhances the overall quality of interactive systems and positively impacts user
satisfaction, productivity, and engagement.

BY: MR. KEVIN NJAGI (LECTURER - KCA UNIVERSITY) @ MAY - AUG 2024 8
1.6 DISADVANTAGES OF HUMAN COMPUTER INTERACTION

While Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) offers numerous advantages, there are also some
potential disadvantages or challenges that can arise. These include:

1. Learning Curve: Depending on the complexity of the interface and the users' familiarity
with similar systems, there may be a learning curve associated with adopting and
becoming proficient in using a new interface. Users may need time to understand the
interaction patterns, features, and functionality, which can temporarily hinder usability.
2. Technical Complexity: As technology advances and interfaces become more
sophisticated, they can also become more technically complex. This complexity can lead
to challenges in understanding and navigating the interface, particularly for users who are
less technologically inclined or have limited technical expertise.
3. Cognitive Overload: Poorly designed interfaces or those with excessive information or
features can overwhelm users, leading to cognitive overload. Too much information,
complex navigation structures, or multitasking requirements can strain users' cognitive
resources and hinder their ability to effectively interact with the system.
4. Lack of User Input: In some cases, interfaces may be designed without adequate user
input or consideration of their needs and preferences. This can result in interfaces that do
not align with users' mental models, making them difficult to understand and use
effectively.
5. Lack of Standardization: Lack of standardization in interface design can be a
disadvantage as users encounter inconsistent interaction patterns and design elements
across different systems. This lack of consistency can lead to confusion, increased
learning effort, and reduced efficiency when switching between interfaces.
6. Accessibility Challenges: While HCI strives for inclusivity and accessibility, challenges
can arise in designing interfaces that cater to the diverse needs of users. Meeting
accessibility standards for individuals with disabilities, such as visual or motor
impairments, can be technically demanding and may require additional design
considerations and resources.
7. Resistance to Change: Users may be resistant to change, particularly when new
interfaces require them to adapt their established habits and workflows. Resistance to

BY: MR. KEVIN NJAGI (LECTURER - KCA UNIVERSITY) @ MAY - AUG 2024 9
 change can hinder the acceptance and adoption of new technologies, impacting the
usability and effectiveness of the interface.
8. Cost and Resource Constraints: Designing and implementing user-friendly interfaces
can require significant resources, including time, budget, and expertise. Limited resources
may lead to compromises in interface design, resulting in less optimal usability or the
omission of certain features that could enhance the user experience.
9. Ethical Considerations: HCI raises ethical concerns related to data privacy, security,
and the potential for manipulation or exploitation of user data. Design decisions that
compromise user privacy or neglect ethical considerations can lead to negative
consequences and erode user trust.
10. Cultural and Contextual Variations: Interfaces designed for one cultural or contextual
setting may not seamlessly translate to another. Factors such as language, cultural norms,
and contextual differences can affect the usability and effectiveness of an interface in
different regions or user groups.

NB: By acknowledging these potential disadvantages and challenges, HCI practitioners can
proactively address them through user research, iterative design, user testing, and the
incorporation of ethical considerations to mitigate their impact and create interfaces that
prioritize usability and user satisfaction.

1.7 APPLICATION AREAS OF HUMAN COMPUTER INTERACTION

Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) finds application in various domains and industries where
the interaction between humans and computer systems is critical. Some notable application areas
of HCI include:

1. User Interfaces and Interaction Design: HCI plays a central role in designing user
interfaces for software applications, websites, mobile apps, and other digital platforms. It
focuses on creating intuitive, efficient, and visually appealing interfaces that enhance user
experience and usability.
2. Human-Centered Design: HCI principles and methods are applied in human-centered
design approaches across multiple domains. It involves understanding user needs,

BY: MR. KEVIN NJAGI (LECTURER - KCA UNIVERSITY) @ MAY - AUG 2024 10
 conducting user research, and involving users throughout the design process to create
products and services that align with user preferences and goals.
3. Information Systems and Data Visualization: HCI contributes to the design of
effective information systems that present complex data and information in a meaningful
and understandable way. It involves designing data visualization techniques and
interactive visual interfaces that enable users to explore, analyze, and interpret data.
4. Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR): HCI is vital in designing
immersive experiences in VR and AR environments. It focuses on creating intuitive and
natural interaction techniques, user interfaces, and visual displays that enable users to
engage with virtual or augmented worlds.
5. Mobile and Wearable Technology: HCI is crucial in designing user interfaces and
interactions for mobile devices and wearable technology. It involves considerations such
as small screens, touch-based interactions, gesture recognition, and context-awareness to
create seamless and user-friendly experiences on the go.
6. Gaming and Entertainment: HCI principles are applied extensively in the design of
user interfaces and interactions in video games and entertainment systems. It focuses on
creating engaging and immersive gaming experiences, intuitive controls, and meaningful
interactions between players and virtual environments.
7. Health and Medical Systems: HCI contributes to the design of user-friendly interfaces
for health and medical systems, including electronic health records, telemedicine
platforms, medical devices, and health monitoring applications. It emphasizes usability,
accessibility, and safety to support effective and efficient interactions between healthcare
professionals and technology.
8. Human-Robot Interaction: HCI is employed in designing interfaces and interactions for
robots and autonomous systems. It involves creating intuitive and natural interfaces that
enable users to communicate and interact with robots, fostering collaboration and
effective human-robot interactions.
9. Automotive and Transportation Systems: HCI principles are utilized in designing
interfaces and interactions in automotive and transportation systems, including in-vehicle
infotainment systems, navigation interfaces, and driver assistance technologies. It aims to

BY: MR. KEVIN NJAGI (LECTURER - KCA UNIVERSITY) @ MAY - AUG 2024 11
 create interfaces that minimize driver distraction and provide easy access to essential
information and controls.
10. Education and Learning Technologies: HCI is applied in designing interfaces and
interactions for educational software, e-learning platforms, and educational games. It
focuses on creating engaging and effective learning experiences, supporting student
interaction and collaboration, and personalizing the learning process.

NB: These application areas demonstrate the wide-ranging impact of HCI in improving user
experiences, enhancing usability, and optimizing human-computer interactions across diverse
domains and industries.

1.8 USABILITY IN HUMAN COMPUTER INTERACTION

Usability is a crucial aspect of Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) that focuses on designing

interfaces that are easy to use and effective in enabling users to accomplish their tasks efficiently.

Usability encompasses several key principles and considerations:

1. Learnability: Usable interfaces should be easy for users to learn and understand, even
for individuals who are unfamiliar with the system. Clear and intuitive design,
consistency in interface elements and interaction patterns, and effective onboarding and
tutorials can enhance learnability.
2. Efficiency: Usable interfaces aim to facilitate efficient interaction by minimizing the time
and effort required to perform tasks. This can be achieved through streamlined
workflows, efficient information organization and retrieval, and the availability of
shortcuts and automation features.
3. Memorability: Usable interfaces allow users to remember how to use the system and its
features even after a period of non-use. Consistent design, clear visual cues, and familiar
interaction patterns contribute to improved memorability.
4. Error Prevention and Handling: Usable interfaces aim to prevent errors and provide
effective error handling mechanisms. Design techniques such as providing clear

BY: MR. KEVIN NJAGI (LECTURER - KCA UNIVERSITY) @ MAY - AUG 2024 12
 feedback, using descriptive error messages, and implementing undo/redo functionalities
help users recover from errors and avoid making mistakes.
5. User Feedback and Guidance: Usable interfaces provide users with appropriate and
timely feedback to inform their actions and help them understand the system's status and
responses. Visual feedback, progress indicators, and clear instructions are examples of
elements that can guide users' interactions.
6. User Control and Flexibility: Usable interfaces empower users by providing control
over the system. Customization options, adjustable settings, and the ability to personalize
the interface allow users to adapt it to their preferences and needs.
7. Aesthetic and Minimalist Design: Usable interfaces consider the aesthetic aspects of
design and strive for a visually pleasing appearance. They also adopt a minimalist
approach by presenting only necessary information and controls, reducing visual clutter,
and avoiding unnecessary complexity.
8. Accessibility: Usable interfaces are designed to be accessible to individuals with diverse
abilities and disabilities. They consider factors such as color contrast, font size, keyboard
accessibility, screen reader compatibility, and support for alternative input methods to
ensure equal access to information and functionality.

NB: Usability testing and evaluation methods, such as user testing, heuristic evaluation, and
cognitive walkthroughs, are employed during the design process to identify and address usability
issues. By prioritizing usability, HCI aims to create interfaces that are user-friendly, efficient,
and enhance the overall user experience.

1.9 IMPORTANCE OF USABILITY IN HUMAN COMPUTER INTERACTION

Usability plays a crucial role in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) and is of paramount

importance for several reasons:

1. User Satisfaction: Usability directly impacts user satisfaction and overall user
experience. When interfaces are easy to use, efficient, and intuitive, users are more likely
to feel satisfied with the interaction process. Positive user experiences lead to increased
user engagement, loyalty, and adoption of the system.

BY: MR. KEVIN NJAGI (LECTURER - KCA UNIVERSITY) @ MAY - AUG 2024 13
2. Task Performance and Efficiency: Usable interfaces enable users to perform tasks more
quickly and accurately. By reducing cognitive load and eliminating unnecessary steps or
complexities, usability enhances users' productivity and efficiency. Users can accomplish
their goals more effectively, saving time and effort.
3. Reduced Learning Curve: Usable interfaces are designed with a focus on learnability,
making it easier for users to understand and become proficient with the system. Intuitive
design, clear instructions, and consistent interaction patterns reduce the learning curve
and enable users to quickly grasp how to use the interface.
4. Error Reduction: Usable interfaces aim to minimize user errors by employing design
strategies that prevent or mitigate mistakes. Clear and informative feedback, error
prevention mechanisms, and intuitive error handling help users avoid errors and recover
from them when they occur. This leads to a reduction in frustration and improves user
confidence.
5. Increased User Engagement: Usable interfaces enhance user engagement by providing
a smooth and enjoyable interaction experience. Users are more likely to stay engaged and
motivated when they can easily navigate the interface, access desired information, and
perform tasks without unnecessary obstacles. This can lead to increased user retention
and a positive perception of the system.
6. Accessibility and Inclusivity: Usability considerations promote accessibility, making
technology usable by a diverse range of users, including those with disabilities or
impairments. Accessible interfaces ensure equal access to information and functionality,
fostering inclusivity and eliminating barriers for users with different abilities.
7. Cost-Effectiveness: Usability is closely linked to efficiency, productivity, and error
reduction. By designing interfaces that are easy to use and require minimal user support,
organizations can reduce training costs, support expenses, and the likelihood of user
errors that may lead to costly consequences or support requests.
8. Competitive Advantage: Usability has become a significant factor in product
differentiation and market competitiveness. Interfaces that prioritize usability attract and
retain users, distinguishing products and services in a crowded marketplace. Positive user
experiences and word-of-mouth recommendations can enhance an organization's
reputation and brand image.

BY: MR. KEVIN NJAGI (LECTURER - KCA UNIVERSITY) @ MAY - AUG 2024 14
NB: Overall, usability is essential in HCI because it directly affects user satisfaction, task
performance, engagement, and accessibility. By prioritizing usability in interface design,
organizations can create products and services that meet user needs, enhance user experiences,
and gain a competitive edge in the market.

1.10 FACTORS AFFECTING USABILITY IN HUMAN COMPUTER INTERACTION

Several factors can influence the usability of interfaces in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI).
These factors encompass various aspects of design, user characteristics, and the context of use.
Here are some key factors that can affect usability:

1. Interface Design and Layout: The design of the interface itself plays a critical role in
usability. Factors such as the organization and placement of elements, use of visual
hierarchy, clarity of labels and instructions, consistency in design elements, and
appropriate use of colors and typography can significantly impact usability.
2. Navigation and Information Architecture: The ease with which users can navigate
through the interface and find the information they need affects usability. Clear and
intuitive navigation structures, well-designed menus, breadcrumbs, and search
functionality contribute to efficient information retrieval and seamless interaction.
3. Interaction Design: The design of interactive elements, such as buttons, menus, forms,
and controls, affects the ease of use and efficiency of the interface. Considerations
include the size and placement of interactive elements, responsiveness to user input,
appropriate feedback and confirmation, and intuitive interaction patterns.
4. Error Prevention and Handling: Usability is influenced by how well the interface
prevents errors and supports error handling. Design features such as informative error
messages, validation checks, undo/redo functionality, and confirmation dialogs can help
users avoid mistakes and recover from errors.
5. User Feedback and Guidance: Providing users with clear feedback and guidance is
essential for usability. Visual cues, progress indicators, informative status messages, and
contextual help can assist users in understanding system states, actions required, and
potential outcomes.
6. Cognitive Load: The cognitive load imposed on users during interaction can impact
usability. Interfaces that require excessive mental effort, memory, or attention to detail

BY: MR. KEVIN NJAGI (LECTURER - KCA UNIVERSITY) @ MAY - AUG 2024 15
 can increase cognitive load and hinder usability. Streamlining workflows, minimizing
unnecessary information, and simplifying complex tasks can help reduce cognitive load.
7. User Characteristics and Abilities: User characteristics, such as prior experience,
domain knowledge, cognitive abilities, physical abilities, and age, can influence usability.
Designing interfaces that accommodate a range of user characteristics and providing
appropriate levels of customization can enhance usability for diverse user groups.
8. Context of Use: The context in which the interface is used can affect usability. Factors
such as the physical environment, available resources, time constraints, and user goals
and tasks can impact how users interact with the system. Considering the context of use
helps tailor the interface to specific user needs and optimize usability.
9. Accessibility: Accessibility considerations are critical for ensuring usability for users
with disabilities or impairments. Factors such as providing alternative input methods,
support for assistive technologies, sufficient color contrast, text alternatives for non-text
content, and keyboard accessibility contribute to accessible and usable interfaces.
10. User Testing and Evaluation: Usability is best assessed through user testing and
evaluation methods. Gathering feedback from representative users, conducting usability
tests, heuristic evaluations, and user surveys help identify usability issues and refine the
interface design iteratively.

NB: Considering these factors and incorporating usability principles throughout the design
process can significantly improve the usability of interfaces, leading to enhanced user
experiences and overall satisfaction.

BY: MR. KEVIN NJAGI (LECTURER - KCA UNIVERSITY) @ MAY - AUG 2024 16
1.11 PRINCIPLES OF HUMAN COMPUTER INTERACTION

Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) is guided by a set of principles that inform the design and
evaluation of user interfaces and interactions. While there are various principles proposed by
researchers and practitioners, some commonly recognized principles of HCI include:

1. User-Centered Design: The user should be at the center of the design process. Design
decisions should be based on an understanding of user needs, goals, and preferences,
obtained through user research and involving users throughout the design process.
2. Visibility: The interface should provide clear and visible cues to users, indicating the
available actions, system status, and feedback. Users should easily understand the current
state of the system and be aware of the available options and their consequences.
3. Consistency: Interface elements, interaction patterns, and terminology should be
consistent within a system and across different systems to minimize user confusion.
Consistency helps users develop mental models and apply prior knowledge to new
contexts, enhancing usability.
4. Feedback: The system should provide immediate and informative feedback to users for
their actions and interactions. Feedback helps users understand the system's response,
confirm the success or failure of their actions, and guide them in achieving their goals.
5. Flexibility and Efficiency: The interface should provide flexibility and efficiency in user
interactions, allowing users to perform tasks in multiple ways and adapt to their preferred
workflows. Shortcuts, customization options, and efficient interaction techniques
contribute to user efficiency.
6. Learnability: The interface should be easy to learn, enabling users to quickly understand
how to interact with the system and accomplish their tasks. Clear instructions, intuitive
design, and progressive disclosure of complexity contribute to learnability.
7. Error Prevention and Recovery: The interface should anticipate and prevent errors by
providing clear and understandable instructions, constraints, and validation checks. In
case of errors, the system should offer informative error messages and support efficient
error recovery mechanisms.
8. Aesthetics and Design: The interface should be visually appealing, engaging, and
aesthetically pleasing to users. Good design principles, including visual hierarchy, proper

BY: MR. KEVIN NJAGI (LECTURER - KCA UNIVERSITY) @ MAY - AUG 2024 17
 use of color and typography, and attention to detail, contribute to a positive user
experience.
9. Accessibility: The interface should be accessible to users with diverse abilities and
disabilities. It should consider accessibility standards, accommodate assistive
technologies, and provide alternative interaction methods to ensure equal access and
inclusivity.
10. Ethical Considerations: HCI should consider ethical principles and implications, such as
privacy, security, transparency, and social impact. Interfaces should respect user
autonomy, privacy, and well-being, and designers should consider the broader social and
ethical implications of their design decisions.

NB: These principles serve as guidelines to promote user-friendly, effective, and satisfying
interactions between humans and computer systems. Applying these principles throughout the
design and evaluation process helps create interfaces that meet user needs, enhance usability, and
optimize the overall user experience.

BY: MR. KEVIN NJAGI (LECTURER - KCA UNIVERSITY) @ MAY - AUG 2024 18
1.12 CLASS EXERCISE 1

The objective of this class exercise is to introduce students to the fundamental concepts and
principles of Human-Computer Interaction (HCI).

Instructions:

1. Divide the students into small groups.

2. Provide each group with a set of scenarios or examples of human-computer interaction.
3. Each group to discuss and analyze the scenario/example given from an HCI perspective.
4. Each group to identify the following aspects related to HCI in each scenario/example:
 The users involved and their characteristics (e.g., age, experience, abilities)
 The tasks or goals that users want to accomplish
 The context in which the interaction takes place (e.g., location, environment)
 The usability considerations and challenges present
 Possible improvements or design changes to enhance the user experience and
usability
5. Timeframe allocated (60 minutes) for group discussions.
6. After the allocated time, each group to present their analysis and findings to the class.
7. I will Encourage class discussions and allow other students to provide additional insights
or suggestions.
8. We will later Summarize the key concepts and principles of HCI that emerge from the
discussions.

Example Scenarios/Examples:

1. Scenario: A mobile banking application where users can check their account balance,
transfer funds, and pay bills.
2. Example: A smart home system that allows users to control lighting, temperature, and
security features through voice commands.
3. Scenario: A virtual reality game where players interact with a virtual world using hand
gestures and body movements.
4. Example: A website for an e-commerce platform that enables users to search for
products, add them to a shopping cart, and make purchases.
BY: MR. KEVIN NJAGI (LECTURER - KCA UNIVERSITY) @ MAY - AUG 2024 19
 5. Scenario: A self-checkout kiosk at a grocery store where customers scan and bag their
items themselves.
6. Example: A fitness tracking app that records users' workouts, provides personalized
recommendations, and tracks progress over time.

NB: By engaging in this exercise, students are expected to actively explore real-world scenarios
and examples, critically analyze them from an HCI perspective, and develop an understanding of
the key factors that contribute to effective and usable human-computer interaction.

BY: MR. KEVIN NJAGI (LECTURER - KCA UNIVERSITY) @ MAY - AUG 2024 20