Data is factual and usually numerical information that can be recorded, organised and stored in a way that allows it to be processed, sorted, manipulated, retrieved and used to answer questions or to solve problems.
Information
Information is the result of processing data, which has been interpreted, meaning given to it, and presented in a form that is useful, relevant and meaningful to the user.
Data Store
A data store is a place where data is stored, such as a file, a database, or a spreadsheet. Data stores can be local, remote, or distributed.
Data Quality
Data quality refers to the accuracy, completeness, and relevance of the data. Poor data quality can lead to incorrect analysis and decision-making.
Data Validation
Data validation is the process of checking that the data entered or processed is accurate, complete, and follows certain rules or formats. This helps to ensure data quality.
Primary Data
Primary data is data that is collected directly from its source, such as through surveys, observations, or experiments. This is often more accurate and reliable than secondary data.
Data Format
Data format refers to the structure or organisation of the data, such as text, numbers, or dates. This can affect how easily the data is processed and used.
Data Representation
Data representation refers to the way data is stored or displayed, such as in a table, graph, or diagram. This can affect how easily the data is understood and used.
Secondary Data
Secondary data is data that is collected from existing sources, such as books, articles, or websites. This can be useful for gaining a broader understanding of a topic or identifying trends and patterns.
Data Classification
Data classification refers to the process of grouping similar data into categories, such as into fields or columns. This can help to make the data more manageable and easier to understand.
Cloud Computing
Cloud computing is a model for delivering IT services over the internet, where resources such as storage, servers, and applications are provided on-demand and accessible from anywhere.
Human-Computer Interaction (HCI)
HCI is the study of how people interact with technology, including computers, mobile devices, and other digital systems. It aims to design and develop interfaces that are easy to use, efficient, and enjoyable for users.
Interaction between Human and Computer
The interaction between human and computer is a two-way process that involves both the user and the system. It includes both input (user giving instructions) and output (system responding to those instructions).
Error Prevention and Recovery
Error prevention and recovery are key aspects of HCI. Designing systems that prevent errors in the first place, and providing effective recovery mechanisms when errors do occur, is crucial for maintaining user trust and satisfaction.
User Interface Design
User interface design refers to the process of designing the visual and interactive aspects of a system, such as buttons, menus, and displays. It aims to make the system easy to use and intuitive for users.
Display Resolution
Display resolution refers to the number of pixels (dots) that make up the display. Higher resolutions provide sharper and more detailed images, but may require more processing power.
Display Size
Display size refers to the physical dimensions of the screen. Larger displays provide a more immersive experience, but may be impractical for portable devices.
Aspect Ratio
Aspect ratio refers to the proportion of the display's width to its height. Common aspect ratios include 16:9 (widescreen), 4:3 (traditional), and 3:2 (old TVs).
Backlight
Backlight refers to the light source used to illuminate the display. LED backlights are common, providing better power efficiency and longer lifetimes compared to CCFL (cold-cathode fluorescent lamp) backlights.
Touchscreen
Touchscreen displays allow users to interact with the system using gestures and taps. Capacitive touchscreens are common, using electrical signals to detect touch inputs.
Display Brightness
Display brightness refers to the level of light emitted by the display. Higher brightness levels can be helpful in bright environments, but may also consume more power.
Keyboards
Keyboards are a common input devices that allow users to type text and enter commands. Mechanical keyboards are highly customizable and provide tactile feedback, while membrane keyboards are more affordable and lightweight.
Input Devices
Input devices allow users to interact with a system. Common input devices include keyboards, mice, touchpads, and touchscreens. Each input device has its own set of advantages and disadvantages.
Touchpads
Touchpads are a type of mouse substitute that use gestures and taps to interact with the system. Multi-touch touchpads can recognize multiple fingers and perform complex gestures.
Mice
Mice are used for pointing and clicking on screen elements. Optical mice use a light sensor to track movement, while laser mice use a laser beam to provide higher accuracy.
Button and Stick Design
Button and stick design refers to the placement and shape of buttons, sticks, and other controls on input devices. Ergonomic designs can reduce fatigue and improve user experience.
Sensor Technology
Sensor technology refers to the underlying technology used to detect user input. Infrared sensors, cameras, and accelerometers are common sensors used in input devices.
Mechanical Keyboards: Advantages
Laser Mice: Advantages
Multi-Touch Touchpads: Advantages
Ergonomic Design: Advantages
Display Disadvantages: Resolution
Display Disadvantages: Display Size
Keyboard Input
Keyboard input is a common method of user interaction, allowing users to enter text, commands, and other data using a keyboard.
Advantages: Keyboard Input
Efficient: Keyboard input is generally faster and more efficient than other input methods, such as touching or gesturing.
Precise: Keyboard input can provide precise control over data entry, making it ideal for tasks that require accuracy.
Flexible: Keyboards can be used with a variety of devices, including computers, laptops, and mobile devices.
Disadvantages: Keyboard Input
Limited mobility: Keyboard input is often restricted to a fixed location, limiting mobility and flexibility.
Finger movement: Keyboard input requires finger movement, which can be awkward or uncomfortable for some users.
Error-prone: Keyboard input can be error-prone, especially for users with limited dexterity or vision impairments.
Advantages: Touch Input
Intuitive: Touch input is often intuitive and natural, allowing users to interact with devices in a more organic way.
Mobile-friendly: Touch input is ideal for mobile devices, where screen sizes are smaller and keyboard input can be impractical.
Gestures: Touch input can support a wide range of gestures, providing a more expressive and engaging user experience.
Disadvantages: Touch Input
Inaccurate: Touch input can be inaccurate, especially on smaller screens or if the user's fingers are larger.
Cumbersome: Touch input can be cumbersome for tasks that require precise control or complex inputs.
Error-prone: Touch input can be error-prone, especially if the user accidentally touches the wrong area of the screen.
Advantages: Gesture-based Input
Natural: Gesture-based input is often natural and intuitive, allowing users to interact with devices in a more expressive way.
Intuitive: Gesture-based input is often intuitive, allowing users to learn complex functions and commands quickly.
Customizable: Gesture-based input can be customized to suit individual preferences and needs.
Disadvantages: Gesture-based Input
Inaccurate: Gesture-based input can be inaccurate, especially if the device's sensors are not sensitive enough.
Confusing: Gesture-based input can be confusing, especially if the device requires users to learn complex gestures or commands.
Error-prone: Gesture-based input can be error-prone, especially if the user accidentally triggers the wrong gesture or command.