Whether technology helps us to gather information, provide services,
or produce goods, it's benefits are usually manifested in a physical form.
Therefore, it is often necessary for us to interact with technology in a physical
manner.
By far, one of our most powerful and far-reaching expressions of technology
is the computer. Much of the present use of computers demands a constant
alternating succession of input and output of information, which is
accomplished with some type of interface between us and the computer. The
physical elements of this interaction demand great attention in order to be
successful.
To address this interaction, three sub-fields of study concerned with
how humans physically interact with the computer have arisen: ergonomics,
human factors, and human-computer interaction. While ergonomics deals
with the physical shape of the machine, and human factors deals with
physiological concerns, human-computer interaction looks at the cross-
relations of computer science, psychology, and design in order to evaluate and
improve the way we use computers. Human-computer interaction
professionals often design and test computer interfaces, that is, the physical
tools that enable the exchange of information.