Task 10

I found this module very interesting. Learning about the history of advertising was one thing, but to throw in social media now, I think, creates a whole other level. As recommended, I watched “The Great Hack” on Netflix. I have to admit, I felt a bit naive about the advertising information that was talked about on this documentary. I had to remind myself that things are different in the United States, so I was able to take a breath. Regardless, the story behind Cambridge Analytica and the connection to the Trump election is fascinating. The way people (the persuadable voters) are targeted through their Facebook accounts is very interesting- worth the watch!

As for this “game...“dark patterns” is a very accurate way to describe the GUI. I share feelings with many peers that have posted already- frustrating is the best word to describe it! This “game” made me realize that I am very used to user friendly sites. Especially if it is a site I am working with, to create a program or blog for example, everything needs to be seamless, organized, and make sense. This was the exact opposite of that!

Some ways that the GUI was (very annoyingly) manipulating attention:

• large buttons that draw your attention (but not to what you want)
• words, phrases or lists that are out of order (alphabetically or other). Ex: the birthday months were listed out of order.
• The constant time reminder
• Using different symbols for words. Ex: the “close” used the copyright symbol for the letter 'c'
• Having to delete the fill in form before typing in your response
• The pop up help box
• There’s so many more!

Interestingly, here's one I did NOT expect: "Gender and title do not match."

This "error" was specific to me (I assume; BUT I would love to know if anyone else experienced the same error), as the form I filled in read:

Ms.

Evan

Female

I think that the GUI was picking up on the abnormality of my name and gender pairing. When I changed gender to male, it allowed me to move on to the next page.

Overall, this has made me think about learning a different language, or learning to use computers entirely. My generation grew up learning how to use computers. Even more so, my students I teach now know more than I do about computers or other devices. So, it is interesting to watch my mom, for example, try to use a computer or her phone. (Obviously the red circle means close! Why is that taking you so long!) This task has reminded me to slow down and actually read! I bet someone would have a shorter time stamp if they were patient and read through.