Multi Media Ex.-->Reading Response 2: The Language of New Media, p 78-93

Why do new generations favor cinematic language over print?

The new generation is beginning to grow up an extremely media-rich environment. The cinematic language has become the basic means by which computer users access and interact with cultural data. Today millions of people communicate with one another through the same interface. In contrast to cinema, all users are able to speak the same interface language of the computer. The user is able to acquire new cultural information because the language is based on familiar forms. Cultural interfaces draw on older forms such as cinema and the printed word.


In today's new world of cultural data & experiences of the computer, what are some outdated interface metaphors still employed?

Cultural interfaces still use elements of the HCI such as scrollable windows with text and other types, hierarchical menus, dialogue boxes, and command-line input. Historically the human computer interface in known for reformatting other media whether it be the printed page, film, or television. HCI designers rely heavily on the conventions of the human-made physical environment beginning with the Macintosh's use of the desktop metaphor.