A teaching method for using metaphors in interaction design

Abstract

The consistent use of metaphors in the context of Human Computer Iteration (HCI) helps to reduce the cognitive load necessary for understanding the functionality of a computational interface. Students' understanding about a good usage of metaphors in HCI improves their ability to properly critique and design computer interfaces. However, is not simple to students to learn how to use metaphors in interaction design. To teach students to develop interactive experiences by means of metaphors is not an easy task. This work proposes a teaching method for using metaphors during the design of website, desktop, mobile or tablet interfaces and present results of a successful case study concerning the proposed teaching method. The teaching method developed is a model of collaborative learning based on King's questioning model and Ferreira's creative dimensions, that consists in creative tasks allied to questionnaires with structured questions and are designed to encourage interaction, group learning and to foment creativity in students. © 2013 IEEE.