My Research This Summer

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Many people look at the words "Computer/Human Interaction" as meaning how to make computers that interact better with humans. However, the process is two sided, computers need to provide a good interface but the human needs to understand how to use it. In order to do that humans need to understand the basics of how a computer "thinks". For example a door is a very complex and confusing device unless you understand how it works. To even begin to comprehend a door the user must first understand that there is a room behind it. Then they must understand that the door is fastened in place by latch that is not visible and to un-fasten it they must twist the knob and push/pull.

My research this summer focuses on the human part of Computer/Human Interaction. If a human is taught to interact with one type of computer (such as a robot) does it help them interact with computers in general and does it alter their perceptions about computers. This summer I will be designing and teaching several classes on how to program and use Lego Mindstorm robots. (See pictures below) The majority of the classes will be taught to high school level students. By teaching these students how to build and program their own robot I hope to not only improve their ability to interact with computers in general but improve their general problem solving skills.