What's not interactive?

• Flash (and other forms of animated media)
• Shockwave (see above)
• JavaScript (rollovers aren't really interactive)
• Java
• Banner Ads (even those with Java games)
• Non-linear Narratives (simple choice isn't enough)

Technologies are not inherently or automatically interactive.

 

What else is not interactive?

• Almost every CD-ROM
• Interactive Television
• Content (Content is not king!)
• Reading a Book (it's not all in your head)

Other forms of new media have also suffered this confusion.

 

What's kind of interactive?

• Some Non-Linear Narratives
• Discussion Forums and Chat
• Some forms of Customization
• Video and Computer games
• MUDs (Multi-User Domains)

Interactivity is not what you think it is.

 

OK, so what is interactive?

• Conversations
• Most Storytelling
• (Productivity) Applications
• Playing Soccer
• Building and Decorating a House
• Games (of all kinds)

Interactivity is all around us and a deep part of our lives. It has been around for hundered of thousands of years. It is merely new to electronic media.

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