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The Model Human Processor Structure
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Today, we're diving into the Model Human Processor, or MHP. This model helps us understand how the human mind processes information in a manner similar to a computer.
What are the main components of the MHP?
Great question! The MHP consists of three core components: the Perceptual Processor, the Cognitive Processor, and the Motor Processor. Each plays a unique role in information processing.
Can you explain what the Perceptual Processor does?
Of course! The Perceptual Processor is the gateway for sensory input, converting raw data into symbolic formats for further processing. It operates typically at about 100 milliseconds per cycle.
So, if it's 100 milliseconds, what does that mean for how long a visual cue should last?
That's an excellent connection! Visual cues should last at least 50 milliseconds, ideally longer, for effective perception. This ties closely to how we design HCI systems.
Can you summarize the key points we covered?
Certainly! We explored the MHP structure, focusing on the Perceptual Processor and its speed, emphasizing the importance of timing in interface design.
Cognitive and Motor Processors
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In our last session, we discussed the Perceptual Processor. Now, let's look at the Cognitive and Motor Processors.
What exactly does the Cognitive Processor do?
The Cognitive Processor handles higher-level operations like decision-making and problem-solving. It typically cycles around 70 milliseconds.
How does this influence design in HCI?
Excellent point! We need to minimize cognitive load by allowing recognition rather than recall, meaning designs should be intuitive.
And the Motor Processor? What's its role?
The Motor Processor translates cognitive commands into physical actions. It also operates around 70 milliseconds, highlighting the relevance of response time in HCI design.
Can you recap the key takeaways about these processors?
Absolutely! The Cognitive Processor is key for decision-making, while the Motor Processor bridges thought and action. Understanding their dynamics helps us design better interfaces.
Sequential and Parallel Processing
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Now let's discuss how the MHP processes information. It often operates in parallel, but can also hit sequential bottlenecks.
What does that mean for real-time processing of tasks?
It means while one processor is executing tasks, another can be preparing the next. However, if one processor lags, it can slow down the whole system.
Can an example illustrate this?
Certainly! For instance, in driving, while the Motor Processor is active in steering, the Cognitive Processor might be making decisions about routes.
What can go wrong in this system?
Good question! If the Perceptual Processor struggles with unclear input, it can become a bottleneck, delaying the processing of information.
What should we remember about managing bottlenecks?
Key takeaway: Design should focus on reducing cognitive load and keeping information clear to minimize bottlenecks and streamline processing.
Introduction & Overview
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Quick Overview
Standard
This section provides an architectural overview of the MHP, highlighting its three key processorsβthe Perceptual, Cognitive, and Motor systemsβand their characteristics. Additionally, it examines how these components work together to process information and the implications for HCI design.
Detailed
Architectural Overview of the MHP
The Model Human Processor (MHP) provides a foundational framework for understanding human cognition as an information processing system essential for Human-Computer Interaction (HCI). It comprises three main processors: the Perceptual Processor, the Cognitive Processor, and the Motor Processor, each contributing uniquely to human information processing.
- Perceptual Processor (Tp): This serves as the initial gateway that converts raw sensory data into symbolic representations. It operates with a cycle time of approximately 100 milliseconds and plays a crucial role in rapid feature extraction and pattern recognition, impacting interface design in terms of perceptual load.
- Cognitive Processor (Tc): Acting as the mind's central processing unit, it is responsible for higher-level mental operations such as reasoning and decision-making, with a typical processing cycle of around 70 milliseconds. Efficient designs should minimize cognitive load by relying on recognition over recall.
- Motor Processor (Tm): It executes the commands from the cognitive processor, with a processing speed similar to the cognitive processor, influencing the design of physical interactions in HCI.
These processors operate in a sequential yet often parallel manner, with potential bottlenecks that can hinder performance. Understanding their interactions and characteristics provides valuable insights for designing more effective HCI systems.
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Flow of Information Processing
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The MHP elegantly portrays human information processing as a continuous, generally unidirectional flow, commencing with sensory input from the external environment and culminating in motor output. Sensory dataβoriginating from the eyes, ears, touch, etc.βis initially captured and transformed by the Perceptual Processor. The symbolically coded representation generated by the Perceptual Processor is then transmitted to the Cognitive Processor. Within the Cognitive Processor, this information is interpreted, integrated with existing knowledge retrieved from memory, used for decision-making, and translated into plans for action. Finally, the Cognitive Processor dispatches commands to the Motor Processor, which orchestrates the physical execution of responses.
Detailed Explanation
The Model Human Processor (MHP) outlines a structured way in which humans process information. It starts with sensory inputs gathered from our environmentβlike sights and soundsβthat enter the Perceptual Processor. This processor's job is to convert raw sensory inputs into a format that our brain can understand. Once the information is processed into a symbolic representation, it moves on to the Cognitive Processor.
In the Cognitive Processor, the brain interprets the information further by linking it with previously stored knowledge, making decisions based on this combined information, and planning actions. After the decisions are made, the Cognitive Processor sends commands to the Motor Processor, which executes the movements that correspond to those decisions. Hence, human information processing can be seen as a linear path that connects perception, cognition, and action.
Examples & Analogies
Imagine driving a car. When you see a traffic light (sensory input), your eyes help you perceive the color of the light through the Perceptual Processor. Your brain (Cognitive Processor) then evaluates the color and decides to stop if the light is red. Finally, your muscles (Motor Processor) act by pressing the brake pedal. This sequence exemplifies how sensory input leads to cognition and finally results in a physical action.
Cycle Times of Processors
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A pivotal and distinguishing feature of the MHP is the assignment of an approximate cycle time (T) to each processor. This cycle time represents the average duration required for a single, fundamental processing cycle to be completed within that specific component. It's imperative to understand that these cycle times are not immutable, precise figures but rather represent typical ranges, acknowledging the inherent variability across individuals, the influence of task complexity, and the impact of practice. These ranges provide a statistical basis for performance prediction.
Detailed Explanation
Each processor in the MHP has an inherent cycle time that denotes how long it typically takes to complete one processing cycle. For instance, the Perceptual Processor might take around 100 milliseconds to process visual input, while the Cognitive Processor might need about 70 milliseconds. These cycle times are averages and can vary for different people or depending on the difficulty of the task. By understanding these cycle times, designers can predict how quickly users can interact with an interface and how efficiently tasks can be completed.
Examples & Analogies
Think of a factory assembly line. Each station (or processor) has a specific time it takes to complete its part of the task. If one station works faster (like the Cognitive Processor), it helps the whole line run efficiently. If one station slows down, like a malfunctioning machine, it causes delays in the entire process. Understanding these processing times can help factory managers streamline operations, just as understanding cycle times can aid in creating better user experiences.
Definitions & Key Concepts
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Key Concepts
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Perceptual Processor: Converts raw sensory input into symbolic representations.
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Cognitive Processor: Handles decision-making and complex cognitive functions.
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Motor Processor: Translates cognitive outputs into physical actions.
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Cycle Time: Reflects the average duration for processing cycles within each processor.
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Processing Pipeline: Describes how various processors interact in concurrent operations.
Examples & Real-Life Applications
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Examples
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In driving, the Motor Processor controls steering while the Cognitive Processor makes route decisions based on visual information.
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When using a smartphone app, the Perceptual Processor registers touch inputs, the Cognitive Processor interprets commands, and the Motor Processor executes them.
Memory Aids
Use mnemonics, acronyms, or visual cues to help remember key information more easily.
π΅ Rhymes Time
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The MHP trio, to be in the know, Perceptual sees, Cognitive thinks, and Motor will show.
π Fascinating Stories
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Imagine a driver (Motor) who sees a stop sign (Perceptual), then decides to stop (Cognitive); they work together as a team.
π§ Other Memory Gems
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P-C-M = Perceptual-Cognitive-Motor.
π― Super Acronyms
MHP
- Model of Human Processors.
Flash Cards
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Glossary of Terms
Review the Definitions for terms.
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Term: Model Human Processor (MHP)
Definition:
A cognitive architecture model that illustrates how the human mind processes information through three main processors: Perceptual, Cognitive, and Motor.
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Term: Perceptual Processor
Definition:
The subsystem responsible for capturing and interpreting raw sensory data, converting it into a symbolic format for further cognitive processing.
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Term: Cognitive Processor
Definition:
The subsystem that handles higher-level thinking, including reasoning, decision-making, and memory retrieval.
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Term: Motor Processor
Definition:
The subsystem that translates cognitive decisions into physical actions through muscle activation.
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Term: Cycle Time
Definition:
The estimated duration it takes for a processor to complete one cycle of information processing.