When I changed my major from Biology to Interactive Media, I didn’t fully understand what interactivity really meant. Reading Chapter 3 of The Art of Interactive Design by Chris Crawford helped me make a clear distinction between interactivity and related concepts like reaction, participation, and design. Crawford defines true interactivity as a cyclical process where two actors alternately give input, process it, and provide output, much like a conversation.
Before reading, I assumed that systems allowing user participation, such as clicking buttons, were interactive. However, Crawford’s explanation made me realize that true interactivity requires meaningful feedback. Unlike simple reactions, which are one-way responses, interactive systems respond to the user’s input in ways that adapt and engage, creating a dynamic loop.
This new understanding has changed how I approach design, as I now realize the importance of creating systems that actively respond to user input in meaningful ways. Crawford’s insights will guide me in future projects, pushing me to design experiences that are truly interactive, with a focus on creating dynamic, engaging feedback loops between the user and the system.