Blake blake@kingdomrpg.com wrote:
If you're dealing with kids who have used computers before, clicking-and-dragging in a circular motion--well, first of all, it's a relatively difficult motion. It's an unfamiliar motion. And it's not an enjoyable motion.
By the way, you don't have to do a circular motion. Up/down and left/right also work fine.
Then there are the ten icons surrounding the morphic, which is rather a lot.
Somewhat agreed. It must be shocking to see them come up the first time, but then after that, is it really a big deal?
Keep in mind that Squeak is usually introduced to kids while an adult is around to guide them. The halo is probably terrible for people learning Squeak *alone*, because there is so much in it. I doubt it is a big deal for people learning with a helper at hand, though, because the helper can guide them through the initial steps.
Anyway, real UI questions have to be answered by trying in front of people in a realistic setting. We could shoot in the dark all day. :|
In practice, drive-a-car is eminently learnable. Squeak Central has a ton of experience at this point (I bet a few have drive-a-car dreams and nightmares at this point :)), and I've tried it a few times myself with near-universal success. (The exceptions have been grown up computer guys; the 4-6 kids I've shown all got it to work and really liked it.)
I recommend people try it if you get a chance. Find a kid or a kid-like adult, and show them how to recreate drive-a-car. Just mimic Alan from one of his OOPSLA talks. Insist that the kid [sic] begins by drawing their own car (or other vehicle), because it sets the stage very nicely. And then enjoy the show. Most likely your kid will have a blast. They love finally being in control of their own computer!
-Lex