Tangible User Interface
Tangible User Interface (TUI) is a human-computer interaction paradigm where users interact with digital information through physical objects, surfaces, or environments. It bridges the physical and digital worlds by using tangible artifacts as input devices, allowing for direct manipulation and spatial interaction. TUIs are often used in educational, creative, and collaborative settings to make computing more intuitive and accessible.
Developers should learn about TUIs when designing interactive systems for applications like museums, classrooms, or collaborative workspaces, where physical interaction enhances engagement and learning. It's particularly useful for projects involving augmented reality, interactive installations, or educational tools that benefit from hands-on, multi-sensory experiences. Understanding TUIs helps in creating user interfaces that leverage natural human skills like manipulation and spatial reasoning.