A method of becoming involved with software that is dictated by the whim, interest or enthusiasms of the user. Digital encyclopaedias, games, web sites and some art programming involve interactivity in as much as they provide a non-linear approach to viewing and accessing information.
a quality of some Web pages that encourages the frequent exchange of information between user and computer
The ability of a user (or a computer) to control the presentation by a multimedia system, not only for material selection, but for the way in which material is presented.
A characteristic of multimedia software that expects users to respond directly to the choices available on the screen and thus customize what is presented to their needs or wishes.
"the defining characteristic of the emerging forms of education and entertainment associated with multimedia applications and hypermedia applications, this term refers to the ability of users to communicate directly with the computer and have consequential impact on whatever message is being created".
refers to web pages that are not static but change depending on the user's actions. Examples include drop-down menus, forms, polls, etc.
Interactivity is the involvement between a user and a computer program. It may involve the user choosing a path through a program or answering questions or playing a game.
The actions taken by a user of a Web site or other software as he or she manipulates the content.
Zimmerman defines four modes of interactivity (1) cognitive, or interpretative participation with a text; (2) functional, or a utilitarian participation with a text; (3) explicit, or participation with choices and procedures in a text; (4) cultural (meta), or the activities outside the boundaries of the text ("Narrative" 158). The third mode above seems most applicable to games, but all modes tend to operate on some level when discussing game-stories. Henry Jenkins suggests that technology is interactive while participation is cultural.
The characteristic of systems which accept user input as well as delivering output. Distinguishes, for example, conventional TV or video from multimedia or videoconferencing.
One of the facets of the web that distinguishes it from print, is that it is a two way form of communication. When you print a brochure, a customer may take it home, and may contact you through the phone number or e-mail address. But if that customer visits your website, it could be different each time. There might be new information. It might have a new look. It offers an element of the unexpected, and inspires your customers to return in hopes of discovering something new. Your website could also offer other means of interactivity -- this is any element that allows the user input something on the website, and have it react or respond. It could be as simple as rollover in your navigation, or as complex as a multimedia game or quiz. Other options include, user reviews, online bulletin boards and chats (which also help build community).
The capability of a website to respond to a user's input.