Literature Review (continued)
We convey system models through interface metaphors
The
COMPUTER IS A DESKTOP
metaphor: files, hierarchical organization, trash can
shapes our interactions and expectations
poor mappings: removing a Mac floppy
feature hiding: documents verses programs, contiguous files, permanent deletion
yet metaphor often not dropped later (as vehicle)
So metaphor vital to understanding and communicating about abstract systems
Zach Tomaszewski
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