3.3. Graphical user interface( GUI).
� User interface.
� Tools, folder, WIMP, Multitasking.
� OS: Windows 10, Mac.
3.3. Graphical user interface( GUI). 1. Lead-in activity: Reading: Graphical user interface( GUI).
The term user interface refers to the standard procedures that the user follows in order to interact with a computer. They were designed with one clear aim: to facilitate interaction with the computer. In the late 1970s and early 80s, the way users accessed computer systems was very complex. They had to memorize and type a lot of commands just to see the contents of a disk, to copy files or to respond to a single prompt( DOC). In fact, it was only experts who used computers, so there was no need for a user-friendly interface. In 1981 the Xerox 8010 Star Information System showed the first GUI-centric computer operating model. In 1984, Apple produced the Macintosh, the first computer with a mouse and a graphical user interface( GUI). A few years later, Microsoft launched Windows, another operating system based on graphics and intuitive tools. Nowadays, computers are used by all kinds of people, and as a result there is a growing emphasis on accessibility and userfriendly systems. A GUI uses a combination of technologies and devices to provide a platform that the user can interact with, for the tasks of gathering and producing information.
The most common combination of such elements in GUIs is the WIMP(" window, icon, menu, pointing device ") paradigm, especially in personal computers. The WIMP style of interaction uses a virtual input device to control the position of a pointer, most often a mouse, and presents information organized in windows and represented with icons. Available commands are compiled together in menus, and actions are performed making gestures with the pointing device. A window manager facilitates the interactions between windows, applications, and the windowing system. The background of the screen is called the desktop, which contains labelled pictures called icons. These icons represent files or folders. Double-clicking a folder opens a window which contains programs, documents, or more nested folders. When you are in a folder, you can launch a program or document by double-clicking the icon, or you can drag it to another location. When you run a program, your PC opens a window that lets you work with different tools. All the programs have a high level of consistency, with similar toolbars, menu bars, buttons and dialog boxes. A modern OS also provides access to networks and allows multitasking, which means you can run several programs- and do various tasks- at the same time.
A visual language has evolved as GUI has become commonplace in both operating systems( OS) and software applications. Even those with few computer skills can now, through the use of GUI, learn how to use computer applications for word processing, finances, inventory, design, artwork or hobbies.
2. Translate these terms and expressions into your own language. Use a dictionary or the Internet to help you
• user interface _______________________________________
• procedures _________________________________________
• commands ________________________________________
• tools _______________________________________________
• desktop _________________________________________
• nested folders ______________________________________
• launch a program ___________________________________
• multitasking ________________________________________
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