etoys ui

Blake blake at kingdomrpg.com
Thu Nov 4 10:50:26 UTC 2004


On Thu, 4 Nov 2004 10:28:32 -0400, <lex at cc.gatech.edu> wrote:

> By the way, you don't have to do a circular motion.  Up/down and
> left/right also work fine.

<nod> Point.

> Somewhat agreed.  It must be shocking to see them come up the first
> time, but then after that, is it really a big deal?

It's a big deal until they become second nature, I think.

> 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.

I'm leery of methods that require another person, just because it then  
becomes more an issue of how the other person handles things rather than  
the method.

> 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.  :|

Fair 'nuff.

> 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!

I'll give it a try this weekend.



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