Name:Chashman Munir
Course: CS408
Assignment:Difference between Clock Time Approaches and Temporal
Design in HCI
Introduction:
Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) in an evolving field that examine how people
interact with computer and design technologies that let humans interact with
computer in novel ways.This assignment explore two significant approaches within
HCI regarding time:traditional “Clock Time” approaches and the Temporal Design
perspective.
Key Difference between “Clock Time” Approaches and Temporal
Design
1. Measurement vs.Experience of Time
Clock time Approaches:
Traditional “Clock Time” approaches in HCI focus on time as a measurable and fixed
quality.
This perspective emphasizes the importance of quantifying time in precise units,such
as seconds,minutes and hours.It often relies on time -based metrics to assess user
interaction with technology,such as response time or time spent on tasks.Foe
example, a common application clock time approaches is the use of timers to
measure the duration of tasks in user interfaces, aiming for efficiency and speed.
Temporal Design Approaches:
In contact,the Temporal Design approaches emphasizes the subjective experience of
time rather than its objective measurement. This perspective recognizes that user
percieveand interpret time based on their activities,emotional states and
contexts.Temporal Design seeks to create system that alignwith users’ temporal
experiences,allowing for a more meaningful engagement with technology.
Answer 2
1. Clock time’s Focus on Effciency vs. Temporal Design ‘s Focus on
Reflection
Traditional HCI systems. guided by “Clock time” prioritize measurable time,animig to
boost productivity and effciency througn task-oriented design. Tools built on this
approaches,such as automated scheduling software, enforce a strict adherence to
time aimed at optimizing task completion.
In contract, Temporal Design encourage a more reflective engagement with time,
one that values the experimental quality of activities rather than strict adherence to
schedules.An example from the article is the “Juicy Mo” juicer,a device intended to
make the user slow down,fostering ritualistic experience around juicing.Here,the act
itself becomes an experience for reflection ,inviting user to engage with time as an
opportunity for mindful awareness,beyond the bounds of strict productivity.
Uniform, Predictable Time vs. Multidimensional ,Cultural Context time
Clock time in traditional HCI treats as a universal constant,often disregarding
cultural and contextual variations.This standardized view may suit global times
keeping but can clash wit the diversity of temporal rhythms across different social
and cultural context.For instance,scheduling systems in HCI typically operate on a
rigid standardized timeline, assuming a universal approaches to time.
Temporal Design however,Embraces the idea of multiple, coexisting temporalities
shaped by cultural,social,and personal factors. This approaches is illustrated by
Pschetz and Bastion's work on empowering alternative temporalities within HCI
systems.
By recognize diverse perspective on time.Temporal Design allows for flexible
interactions that reflect the varying temporal needs and practices across cultural
contexts
