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human-machine interaction

society and technology
Also known as: human-computer interaction

Quick Summary

Human-computer interaction (HCI) focuses on creating effective ways for people to interact with computers. This involves designing user-friendly interfaces, which are the points where humans and machines communicate. HCI research draws from fields like psychology and sociology to understand human capabilities and limitations.1

Early computer interfaces were command-line based, but the development of personal computers led to graphical user interfaces (GUIs) in the 1980s. GUIs allow users to interact with computers by pointing and clicking with a mouse or touching a screen. This evolution has made technology more accessible and intuitive for a wider range of users.1

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