It was really interesting (and funny) to read this first chapter of The Art of Interactive Design. I have never thought that interactivity could be so different and have its’ ‘levels’. And to answer the question proposed at the end of the book, Are rugs interactive? my answer is yes, but the interaction is low, because it’s one sided (just like a fridge).
If I talk about my idea of interaction, I think it’s when the users can engage with the interface. A strongly interactive system is characterized by its ability to respond to user input in meaningful and timely ways. Such systems provide clear cues about how the user can act, make the results of actions visible, and maintain a balance between user control and system guidance. Importantly, they allow exploration and learning by allowing users to experiment without fear of irreversible mistakes.
In my p5 sketches, these principles suggest several ways to improve interaction. For example, I can add more responsive feedback, like visual or auditory cues when users click or hover over elements. Allowing users to customize aspects of the sketch, such as colors, speeds, or behaviors, can enhance engagement. Introducing elements of exploration, like hidden surprises or random effects, encourages experimentation. Additionally, implementing smoother animations and more natural movements, rather than abrupt changes, can make interactions feel more intuitive and satisfying. Overall, designing sketches that are predictable yet playful, and that reward user input, aligns with the chapter’s emphasis on creating systems that are both interactive and enjoyable.