Doing with Images Makes Symbols pt2
From ActiveArchives
Author: Alan Kay
Context: http://www.archive.org/details/AlanKeyD1987_2
Comments
Part 2 of this lecture shows that there was a lot more thought and research behind the user interface paradigm that we today take for granted, than is usually credited. Alan presents numerous interesting theories on interaction based on various mental skills.
The highlight is definitely 36 mins. into the program (though there are several other "a-ha" moments) where Kay's accountant's daughter (22 months old!) boots up a classic mac and starts using MacPaint, seemingly "fluent" and recognizing several of the text menu commands. Amazing stuff!
Comments
Dr. Alan Kay is a pioneer and genius in the field of computer science and development of the modern day GUI for PCs and Macs. He was designing GUI systems that were WAY ahead of their time. He basically developed a fully functional version of 'Macintosh System 6' about 10 or 15 years before anyone on Earth had even heard of a Macintosh computer! Not only that, but in the fashion of a true genius, he was also laying the groundwork for all of the ideas and analysis of what makes a great GUI, and how do you develop the data structures behind it, and how do you do all of these other vastly complex things to make it functional and not just some pretty windows and icons.. It's fascinating to see how his groundwork is still the norm today. Maybe it's because all of this stuff is still too complicated for Microsoft... =P~
As seems to be all too common in this industry, Alan Kay is one of the computing industry's pioneers that only receives a mere fraction of the recognition and respect that he truely deserves. Very similar to the likes of Doug Engalbart, Steve Wozniak, Gary Kildall, etc. The reality of it is that I wouldn't be using the GUI I'm using now if it wasn't for all the blood sweat and tears of these folks.
This lecture is a must see if you appreciate true genius and realize that Micro$oft and their cronies or people like Al Gore never actually 'invented' anything..
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Production Company: University Video Communications Sponsor: Apple Computer Inc Audio/Visual: sound, color Keywords: Technology: Computers: History
